Qing Madi Warns of Predators Exploiting Young Talent in the Music Industry
Rising Afrobeats star Chimamanda Pearl Chukwuma, better known as Qing Madi, has once again highlighted the darker side of the Nigerian music scene. The 18-year-old singer revealed that the industry is riddled with predators eager to exploit young artists through unfair contracts.
Drawing from her own experiences, Qing Madi described the music business as a place filled with self-serving executives driven by greed. She shared these insights during a recent appearance on the Lagos Meets London podcast.
“I’ve faced countless contract issues and encountered professionals who are only out for themselves. The industry is dark,” she said. “I stumbled into music by accident—I just wanted to write songs, make some money, and go to school. But as my music gained traction, I realized some people’s intentions weren’t pure, and that affects how you create.”
On balancing her career with personal life, Qing Madi revealed how her mother keeps her grounded. “My mom reminds me I’m still a kid by making me do chores, so I remember to relax and be human. Sometimes, it feels like I’m just a machine with people constantly looking for ways to profit off me. I just want to go home and be someone’s kid. It’s overwhelming and honestly, quite crazy.”
Qing Madi’s candid reflections shed light on the challenges young artists face navigating an industry that often prioritizes profit over people.