Prominent Nigerian actor Yomi Fash Lanso recently took to his Instagram account to share his profound reflections on the tragic loss of the late singer, Mohbad.
In a heartfelt post, Yomi delved deeply into the circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s untimely passing and, in the process, offered valuable insights into the complex and multifaceted world of the music industry.
Yomi Fash Lanso didn’t just stop at addressing Mohbad’s tragic demise; he also shed light on a critical issue that often remains concealed beneath the glitzy facade of the entertainment industry.
He underscored the glaring disparity between the amiable personas that many A-list celebrities project on their social media platforms and the often harsh and unforgiving reality that unfolds behind the scenes.
In his tribute to Mohbad and his poignant commentary on the industry, Yomi Fash Lanso eloquently expressed his thoughts. He wrote:
“‘SIGNS OF THE TIME’ Kwame Wrote
Countless individuals have approached me, seeking guidance and support to kickstart their children’s music careers. My responses, as Yomi Fash Lanso, have typically fallen into two categories.
For those not within my inner circle, I’ve responded with caution, saying, ‘I may not possess extensive knowledge of the industry anymore, but I’ll certainly explore what possibilities exist and what pitfalls to avoid.’
However, for those with whom I share a closer bond, I’ve offered more candid advice, stating, ‘Advise your child to view music as a passionate pursuit, not a career, because, my dear friend, the music industry has transformed into a treacherous landscape for our young talents these days.’
I speak from experience, having once been at the helm of a record label, namely, Strictly Next Level Records. In the mid-2000s, our label introduced Bouqui, a remarkable female rapper hailing from Nigeria, to the world before my eventual transition into the realm of broadcast media.
During my time in the industry, we certainly faced challenges, but I must emphasize that the terrain has now grown even more perilous and toxic than you could ever imagine.
Music, with its subtle and seductive nature, possesses a unique ability to infiltrate one’s subconscious without resistance, commandeering one’s thoughts without permission. It is this very characteristic that alarms me greatly, for this powerful tool of communication and indoctrination has, in recent times, evolved into a breeding ground for a disturbing array of societal ills.
From drug abuse and trafficking to money laundering, youth manipulation, gang conflicts, cultism, human sacrifices, various forms of sorcery, cybercrime, and organized prostitution, the music industry has become entangled in a web of dark and troubling facets.
What we have witnessed in the wake of Mohbad’s tragic departure is but the tip of a vast and foreboding iceberg. Many of the beloved figures you admire in the industry may appear as darlings on social media, yet, in the realm of reality, they often exhibit ruthless and, some might argue, borderline psychopathic behavior.
All it takes is a discerning ear to listen closely to the lyrics of numerous songs, and therein lies a labyrinth of hidden messages and the subtle promotion of violent street codes that may have eluded your perception until this moment. Curiously, it’s worth noting that many of these artists have their roots firmly planted in churches, but a lack of support structures, platforms, and a systemic exploitation and undervaluation of their talents drive them away from their faith communities and toward the secular world.”
Yomi Fash Lanso’s words serve as a thought-provoking commentary on the evolving landscape of the music industry, highlighting the need for a more holistic understanding of the challenges that emerging artists face and the stark contrast between public personas and private realities. His reflections invite us to contemplate the profound influence that music wields on society and the urgent need for a reevaluation of the industry’s practices.
