Nigerian Singer Advocates Music as Vehicle for Social Change
Veteran Nigerian singer Stella Monye, known for 1980s hits like "Oko mi ye" and "Arigo Samba," has returned to the spotlight after a prolonged hiatus, advocating for artists to use their platforms to address societal issues rather than focusing on commercial appeal alone.
From Television Debut to International Recognition
Monye's journey began at age 14 when she boldly approached a television station, declaring her singing abilities. This initiative led to her first television appearance and eventually to her breakthrough 1983 album "Mr Right," which propelled her into the limelight.
Her international career flourished with performances across Europe, including Germany's Horizons World Festival, where she toured Amsterdam, Switzerland, Bremen, and Frankfurt. She also participated in Caribbean commemorations of the abolition of the slave trade, sharing stages with legendary South African artist Miriam Makeba.
Personal Tragedy Shapes Career Perspective
Monye's career took an unexpected turn when her nine-year-old son suffered a severe accident, falling from a water tank. Multiple failed surgeries and extensive medical treatments across India, Georgia, and the United States forced the artist to step back from her career to focus on her son's care.
"I have to work because his bills are in dollars," Monye explained, highlighting the financial pressures that many families face when dealing with international medical care. The experience transformed her understanding of success, shifting from exposure and passion to practical necessity.
A Message of Resilience and Social Responsibility
Now returned to the industry with her new single "He Prepared Me," Monye emphasizes the importance of authentic storytelling in music. "Natural stories are better told than things that never happened," she stated, advocating for genuine artistic expression over manufactured content.
Her perspective on contemporary Nigerian music reflects both pride and concern. While celebrating the global rise of Nigerian music, she challenges younger artists to create more meaningful content. "Make more positive songs. A lot is happening in the country, and music should correct things. Do not emphasise sex too much," she advised.
Economic Realities of Artistic Pursuit
Monye's story illustrates the economic challenges facing artists, particularly those from developing nations. Her transition from performing for "exposure and passion, not money" to working out of financial necessity reflects broader issues of artistic sustainability and the real costs of pursuing creative careers.
The artist's experience with international medical care also highlights the economic disparities that force families to seek treatment abroad, often at significant financial cost.
Call for Artistic Integrity
Rather than competing with contemporary artists, Monye positions herself as a voice for "positive and inspirational music." Her approach suggests that artistic success should be measured not merely by commercial metrics but by social impact and authentic expression.
"Keep going. Do not give up. Challenges will come; handle them as they come," she counseled, offering a message of perseverance that transcends the music industry and applies to broader life challenges.
Monye's return to music represents more than a personal comeback; it embodies a call for artists to embrace their role as social commentators and agents of positive change, using their platforms to address real issues rather than merely entertaining audiences.