Popular Nigerian Afropop singer Yemi Alade has sparked a conversation about gender bias and sexual harassment in the music industry.
In a recent interview, Alade alleged that early in her career, advancement often hinged on sexual favors. “There was a time,” she said, “when everyone wanted to sleep with me…going down with men was like a bridge I had to cross.“
Alade suggests her refusal to engage in such activities may have impacted her award recognition in Nigeria. Despite being the “most viewed and most subscribed Nigerian female artiste on YouTube,” she feels overlooked by award shows.