Singer Simi has advised entertainers to sign new artists only if they genuinely care about their growth, not just for image or industry status.
In an interview with VJ Adams, she emphasized that artist development demands long-term commitment, belief, and a true passion for the music business.
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Nigerian music star, Simisola Kosoko, popularly known as Simi, has offered some advice to her fellow entertainers in the industry, urging them to approach artist signings with genuine passion rather than doing it for popularity or clout.
Speaking in a recent interview with media personality VJ Adams, Simi said she would only be comfortable signing an artist if she was sure she had the drive and long-term commitment to help that artist grow.
“I can sign an artist but I think that it’s not fair when an artist signs another artist just as a milestone. Because for that artist, it’s just a passion project for them and not necessarily to accomplish a goal. But then, that’s their life,” she said.
Simi stressed that signing an artist should not be a vanity project or a way to boost one’s image in the industry, but rather a serious undertaking driven by a love for the business side of music.
“I think the only people that should sign artists are people who really have passion for music business,” she said. “So that whether or not the artist is thriving at the moment, they will still believe in the artist. Whether or not the song that you thought would blow did not blow, are you willing to keep going?”
The singer added that artist development requires persistence, belief, and genuine care, especially when the going gets tough.
“Are you willing to last on it? Because that’s actually somebody’s life. That’s their dream. And that was the way that I saw myself when I was getting signed like, ‘How do you see me? Am I just a box you are ticketing or is it as important to you as it is to me?” she said.
Simi acknowledged that while she has thought about signing an artist herself, she remains unsure whether she possesses the level of commitment and stamina required to sustain such a venture.
“That’s why I said I could sign another artist but I don’t know if I have that passion, if I have that drive to see someone through, if I have the constant energy. Because it takes a lot,” she concluded.
Her comments have resonated with many in the industry, sparking important conversations about mentorship, investment, and responsibility in the Nigerian music scene.
