Veteran rapper Reminisce has taken an unconventional stance against his children following in his musical footsteps. The accomplished artist shared his perspective during a compelling episode of Pulse On The Record podcast, alongside fellow rapper Vector the Viper, offering a rare glimpse into the harsh realities of the music industry through the lens of both an artist and a parent.
Breaking away from the traditional narrative of artistic legacy, Reminisce’s position stems not from the typical African parent’s resistance to creative careers, but rather from his firsthand experience navigating the complex and often unforgiving music industry. No, I don’t want my children to do music, and I don’t think they should. I’m not speaking as an African parent; I’m speaking from my experience,” the father of two declared, setting the tone for a brutally honest discussion about career choices in the entertainment sector.
Drawing a powerful parallel between the music industry and professional football, Reminisce illustrated the slim odds of success that await aspiring artists. His comparison resonates particularly well in a country where both music and football represent common dreams for youth seeking paths to success. The rapper shared personal observations about friends who pursued professional football careers, noting how some secured professional deals while others, now in their forties, continue to chase elusive opportunities.
What makes Reminisce’s stance particularly noteworthy is its departure from the simple success stories often projected in the entertainment industry. Instead of leveraging his own achievements to encourage his children toward similar paths, he advocates for a more pragmatic approach to career planning. His perspective challenges the glamorized version of the music industry often presented to young aspirants, offering instead a sobering reality check about the statistics of success.
The rapper’s approach, however, isn’t entirely restrictive. He maintains a balanced view that emphasizes education as a foundation while leaving room for artistic pursuits as a secondary option. Fine, get yourself a basic education first that you can pursue,” he advises, highlighting the importance of having a fallback plan in an industry where success rates hover below five percent.
This stance reflects a growing awareness among industry veterans about the need for sustainable career planning in the arts. By comparing the odds to those faced by aspiring football professionals – noting that “for every Ronaldo you see, there are 9000 people who didn’t make it” – Reminisce provides a stark reminder of the reality behind the glamour of entertainment success stories.
The timing of these revelations comes as Nigeria’s music industry continues to gain global recognition, potentially making careers in music seem more attractive to young people. However, Reminisce’s insights serve as a crucial reality check, highlighting the gap between the industry’s visible successes and the numerous unseen struggles of those trying to break through.
His perspective also challenges the common practice of celebrity parents grooming their children for entertainment careers. Instead of following this trend, Reminisce advocates for a more measured approach that prioritizes education and personal development over early entry into the music industry.
The rapper’s willingness to support his children’s musical aspirations, but only after they’ve secured their education, demonstrates a nuanced understanding of both parental responsibility and industry realities. This balanced approach offers a blueprint for other parents navigating similar decisions about their children’s involvement in the entertainment industry.
Reminisce’s revelations have sparked important conversations about career planning in creative industries, particularly in a digital age where success in entertainment can seem deceptively accessible. His experiences and insights provide valuable guidance for both parents and young people considering careers in music, emphasizing the importance of having solid foundations before pursuing creative ambitions.
As the Nigerian music industry continues to evolve and attract more young talents, Reminisce’s perspective offers a crucial counterpoint to the often-glamorized narratives of instant success. His message serves as a reminder that while the industry can offer incredible opportunities, the path to success requires careful planning, alternative options, and realistic expectations.
