I paved way for Burna Boy, he refused to help me – Sky B

Veteran Nigerian singer Sky B has expressed disappointment over what he described as a lack of support from younger artistes who rose to prominence after him, particularly Grammy-winning star Burna Boy.

Speaking during a recent episode of the KAA Truth Podcast, the ‘Pray For Me’ crooner said he and a few pioneers helped lay the foundation for the growth of the Port Harcourt music scene, but many beneficiaries of that success have failed to support those who came before them.

Sky B claimed he assisted several artistes during the early stages of their careers, including Timaya and Mr. 2Kay, through personal sacrifices and investments aimed at promoting music from Rivers State.

The singer alleged that one unnamed artiste once turned down an opportunity to perform alongside him at an event after being contacted by a government official. According to Sky B, the decision was made because the artiste did not want to share the stage with him despite the support he had previously received.

While acknowledging that he never directly assisted Burna Boy during his rise to fame, Sky B argued that the international star benefited from the path created by earlier Port Harcourt musicians and should have considered offering support through a collaboration or financial assistance when his career declined.

“What hurts me most is seeing Burna Boy attain global success and not remember those of us who helped create opportunities for Port Harcourt artistes. A collaboration or any form of support could have helped revive my career,” he said.

Sky B further suggested that regional divisions may have contributed to the lack of support he has received, insisting that pioneers of the Port Harcourt music movement deserve greater recognition for their role in shaping the careers of many of today’s successful artistes.