Mombasa’s music icon Nyota Ndogo has issued a firm plea to local entertainment bloggers, calling for an end to disrespectful comparisons between veteran musicians and emerging artists. Known for her soulful voice and enduring presence in East African music, Nyota Ndogo emphasized the importance of honoring the decades of hard work and experience that seasoned artists bring to the industry.
In a heartfelt social media message, she expressed frustration with narratives that pit established musicians against newer talents, a trend she believes unfairly diminishes the contributions of pioneers who have shaped the region’s music landscape. With a career spanning 25 years, Nyota Ndogo has produced timeless hits and meaningful lyrics that have earned her a lasting place in Kenyan cultural heritage.
She highlighted that equating her extensive journey with that of artists who have been in the scene for only a few years overlooks the value of experience and legacy. For her, such comparisons not only undermine her work but also disrespect the dedication and resilience required to build a lasting career in music.
Nyota Ndogo drew a comparison with the Tanzanian entertainment scene, where bloggers and media outlets treat veteran artists with respect while celebrating the rise of younger stars. She pointed to renowned figures like Lady Jaydee and rising talents such as Nandy as examples of how media in Tanzania honor the contributions of both established and emerging musicians without fueling rivalry or undermining legacies.
This contrast reveals a significant difference in approach between the two countries’ entertainment media. Nyota Ndogo urged Kenyan bloggers to follow Tanzania’s example by adopting a more respectful and balanced attitude toward veteran artists who paved the way for future generations.
She also spoke about the personal impact of these ongoing comparisons, which often result in negative comments and insults directed at veteran artists from followers of entertainment bloggers. As a mature artist with decades of experience, she finds this not only irritating but profoundly disrespectful.
Nyota Ndogo acknowledged that newer artists currently dominate the music scene and enjoy widespread popularity, but she stressed that this does not erase the historical significance and lasting influence of pioneers like herself. She emphasized the need for the entertainment community to recognize and respect the foundations laid by veteran musicians.
The digital age has created new opportunities for artists to reach broader audiences, but it has also brought challenges. Some content creators focus on sensationalism and viral engagement, often at the expense of fairness and respect. Nyota Ndogo sees this trend as problematic, as it encourages divisive comparisons and detracts from the true artistry and legacy of long-standing musicians.
She concluded by urging bloggers and entertainment content creators to reconsider their approach and adopt a more respectful tone when discussing veteran artists. Nyota Ndogo warned that continued disrespect might lead her to withdraw from platforms that fail to honor the dignity and contributions of pioneers in the music industry.
Her message serves as a call for unity and respect within the East African music community, reminding all stakeholders that celebrating both established and new talents can coexist without undermining the achievements of those who laid the groundwork.
