Nigerian rapper Zlatan Ibile has sparked conversation online after openly criticizing the growing influence of social media creators in the entertainment industry.
Speaking during a recent podcast, the street-hop star lamented how the definition of celebrity has rapidly changed, with TikTokers, influencers, and content creators now sharing the spotlight with musicians.
According to him, the industry is no longer dominated by traditional artists alone. He pointed out that skit makers and online personalities can now release songs that instantly go viral—often competing directly with professional musicians.
“It used to be that artists were the celebrities,” Zlatan explained, noting that today, influencers and TikTok creators have built massive audiences that give them instant visibility when they drop music.
He suggested that this shift is changing how music gains popularity, as many viral hits are now driven more by online influence than by musical depth or industry structure.
Zlatan’s comments echo a growing concern among artists who believe the rise of influencer culture is affecting the quality and originality of music. Some argue that the ease of going viral has blurred the line between content creation and artistry.
His remarks have since triggered mixed reactions while some agree that the industry is becoming oversaturated, others believe the evolution simply reflects a new era where anyone with an audience can succeed.
Either way, Zlatan’s statement highlights a major shift in entertainment, where fame is no longer reserved for musicians alone but for anyone who can capture attention online.
