Few days ago MTV released what they believe is Naija’s best songs of all time
(See List). In the meantime Alex Okosi, Senior Vice President & Managing
Director, Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN) Africa, welcomes
the heated debate sparked by the programme.
“We are thrilled to see the passion with
which people are engaging in the discussion about the Best Naija
Tracks. There has been concern in some quarters that the list didn’t
include some of Nigeria’s most seminal artists and songs – it seems as
if some people may have misinterpreted the campaign. This list of
tracks, as voted by the public, was never intended to reflect the Best
Naija Tracks of all time; the creation of this campaign is part of the
build up to our 10th birthday and it was supposed to highlight artistes
that have been played on our channel since the launch of MTV Base in
2005, hence the title “The Best Naija Tracks Ever on MTV Base”. We
understand that the positioning could have been misleading on some of
our platforms and we regret any confusion caused.”
“As a brand, we acknowledge and respect
the fact that Nigeria has a long music history beyond the last 10 years
and our work since launching MTV Base is to help develop and showcase
the best of Nigerian and African music to a global audience. The “Best
Naija Tracks Ever on MTV Base” campaign is really about celebrating the
new generation of talent who have benefitted from the legends who paved
the way for their successes today.”
“The important thing is that everyone
has their own views about what makes a great song or a great artist, and
we’re keen to hear their thoughts. We are continuing the debate and
encouraging music fans to further engage with the campaign via our
digital media platforms. We will also be filming a special MTV Base
Nigerian music roundtable in Lagos on this topic, featuring artistes,
DJs and music industry experts. The roundtable will air on MTV Base in
November 2014 as part of the channel’s build up to our 10th birthday
celebrations. Simultaneously, MTV Base is challenging music fans to
create their own lists of Best Naija Tracks, and to post them on MTV
Base social media assets, or to get involved in the conversation by
using the hashtag #BaseBestNaijaTracks. Those engaging in the campaign
stand the chance to have their comments featured in the roundtable
discussion on MTV Base.”
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