I paved way for Burna Boy, others – Sky B laments lack of support

Nigerian singer Palisade Ogunka, popularly known as Sky B, has expressed disappointment over what he described as the lack of support from some artists he helped during the early years of their careers.

Speaking on the KAA Truth Podcast, the singer said he played a significant role in promoting several artistes from Port Harcourt during his peak years and expected some level of support in return after his career declined.

Sky B claimed that he made sacrifices and invested resources to help develop the city’s music scene, mentioning artists such as Mr. 2Kay and Timaya among those he supported.

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Recalling one of his experiences, he alleged that a fellow artist once declined an opportunity to perform alongside him at an event despite his previous assistance.

“I once gave a governor’s aide an artiste’s number, and he contacted the artiste about performing with me at an event. The artiste declined because he didn’t want to share the stage with me. These are brothers I have helped in the past,” he said.

The singer also singled out Burna Boy, arguing that the Grammy-winning star and other successful artistes from Port Harcourt should acknowledge those who laid the foundation for the city’s music industry.

“We made sacrifices for the Port Harcourt music industry and invested a lot of resources. What annoys me most is seeing Burna Boy rise to global fame and not remember those of us who paved the way for Port Harcourt musicians,” he said.

Sky B added that he believes established artists can support struggling colleagues through collaborations or other forms of assistance.

“He is supposed to support me financially or collaborate with me to rejuvenate my career. That is the problem I am having. Assuming I were Yoruba or Igbo, maybe they would have considered helping me. But because I am from Rivers State, the envy is too much,” he lamented.

The singer’s comments have sparked discussions online about loyalty, mentorship and the responsibilities, if any, successful artists owe to those who contributed to their early development.