Nigerian musician Shallipopi has disclosed how, before becoming well-known, all of his attempts to get in touch with well-known and established artists were turned down.
Shallipopi stated in an interview with Naija FM that he frequently sent direct messages to well-known artists he thought may advance his career, but his messages were ignored—a situation he believes many up-and-coming artists face.
Shallipopi acknowledged that these artists were busy and didn’t know who he was at the time, but he said he never took it personally.
“They’re unfamiliar with you,” he clarified. They have their own lives and jobs, so it’s not personal. It’s normal for them to not respond if you’re unknown. However, people begin DMing you just after you make it.
He used singer Rema in particular as an example, describing how their ultimate cooperation on the song “Benin Boys” only developed after his music started to become popular.
“As the up-and-coming artist for Benin Boys, I messaged Rema first, while he was already well-established,” Shallipopi revealed.
“Rema eventually took note of my music when it began to acquire popularity and replied, urging me to keep going. Benin Boys was born out of our eventual connection in the studio.
He advises people in similar circumstances to keep going because accomplishment and perseverance are frequently followed by recognition.