In a candid video shared via her TikTok page, Tolanibaj emphasized that there is no shame in retirement, particularly for artists who have already built an impressive legacy. She argued that continuing to release subpar music not only diminishes their brand but also subjects them to unnecessary criticism and unfavorable comparisons with rising talents.
Her comments come amid heated debates on social media surrounding the latest releases from some of Afrobeats' biggest names, including Davido, Wizkid, and Burna Boy. Many fans and critics alike have voiced their disappointment, accusing the stars of losing the magic that once defined their sound.
"Why is it that Nigerian artists don't know when to evolve or completely transition into business?" Tolanibaj questioned. She urged artists whose music no longer resonates with the audience to consider other ventures such as entrepreneurship or music executive roles.
"If you have built an amazing legacy, why do you constantly allow the disrespect of being compared to the new generation of artists?" she continued. "What's wrong with becoming a music executive, shining light on new talent, and embracing a leadership role?"
Tolanibaj pointed to industry figures like Olamide and Don Jazzy as examples of musicians who have successfully evolved, maintaining relevance without compromising their stature.
"There are a lot of artists who need to hear this," she added. "There is no shame in retiring. Stop dropping subpar music that waters down your brand — especially if your previous catalogue is top-tier. I would rather see you transition into being a lifestyle influencer than continue to release music that does not reflect your true ability."
Tolanibaj’s comments have sparked mixed reactions, with some fans agreeing that a graceful exit or reinvention could preserve the legacies of beloved stars, while others argue that artists should be free to create as long as they wish.
As the Afrobeats genre continues to evolve on the global stage, the conversation around artistic longevity and adaptation appears more relevant than ever.