Bright Chimezie, the ace Nigerian singer, has rejected the idea that substance use is a necessary catalyst for musical creativity and performance.
In a recent appearance on the CreativTea podcast, the 64-year-old ‘Zigima’ hitmaker asserted that music itself is the ultimate mood-setter.
He also challenged artistes who claim that drinking or smoking enhances their artistic aura, stating simply, “It is a lie”.
He clarified that such actions are merely for personal enjoyment and intentionality, not a creative necessity.
Chimezie emphasised that his primary goal on stage is to project joy, which in turn allows the audience to have fun. He believes the connection is visceral.
“It is a lie. If you are drinking something, you are just having fun. If you are smoking something, you just want to smoke. Music puts you in a mood,” he said.
“For me, if I have a song to present, merely seeing the audience, people who are ready to listen to Bright Chimezie, I am pumped up.
“The idea is, how do I have fun so that these people can have fun? Music is about having fun. People need to look at you and know that you are enjoying this thing before they can enjoy it too.
“You cannot be sad or frowning on your face and expect people to enjoy your music.”
A native of Abia state, Chimezie officially began his career in 1984 and is famed for creating the “Zigima” sound — a term derived from the Igbo phrase ‘Ozigama’, meaning “a message you should know”.
His legacy recently received a powerful endorsement from Afrobeats superstar Davido.
As a gesture of appreciation, Davido hosted the veteran singer after sampling Chimezie’s 2010 hit ‘Because of English’ in his own track ‘With You’, a collaboration with Omah Lay.
Davido’s verse creatively mirrors Chimezie’s original lyrics, serving as a tribute to the pioneer.
In June, Chimezie signed a promotional agreement with Sony Music Publishing (SMP).
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