No one is your friend in the music industry" – Reminisce
“No one is your friend in the music industry” – Reminisce
Nigerian rapper Reminisce, known for his sharp lyrics and deep understanding of the entertainment industry, has opened up about the harsh realities of navigating relationships in the music world. In a candid interview, he revealed that one of the most valuable lessons he learned early on was to implement boundaries and recognize that not everyone around him is a friend.
“Fame is like a drug—it gets you high and clouds your judgment,” Reminisce said, shedding light on how the allure of success can distort perceptions of loyalty and trust. “One of the first things I learned in life is that nobody is my friend,” he continued. This realization, he noted, was crucial to protecting both his career and his personal well-being.
The rapper, whose real name is Remilekun Safaru, further explained that this mindset has helped him make tough decisions in his professional life. “That’s probably why many people don’t like me,” he admitted. “If you hear that I had issues with someone I worked with, it’s probably because I made a decision and stood by it. At the end of the day, I’m the one who will suffer the consequences, not anyone else.” His unwavering stance on decision-making has led to friction in some relationships, but Reminisce insists that boundaries are essential in the competitive world of music.
Reflecting on his journey, the rapper narrated how his understanding of friendship in the industry shifted as his fame grew. “I had a child before I became famous, so I was already grounded. I knew from the start that nobody in this industry is truly your friend. You can be kind, you can assist people, but the biggest mistake you can make is thinking that everyone has your best interests at heart.”
Reminisce’s cautionary tale extends to aspiring artists, many of whom look up to him as a mentor. He warned that those entering the industry should be vigilant about the company they keep. “We all want the same thing—success. So there’s no way you can think that everyone is genuinely rooting for you. People will surround you when you’re hot and popping, but it’s up to you to determine who is really there for you.”
He also touched on the financial dynamics that often sour relationships in the music industry. “When money isn’t involved, people are nice. But as soon as they feel like they’re not getting their cut, they turn on you. That’s just human nature,” Reminisce observed. This transactional approach to friendships is something the rapper has come to accept, but he insists that understanding this early on has helped him maintain control over his career.
The veteran rapper’s insight serves as a reminder of the need for self-awareness and discretion in an industry where competition and ambition can blur the lines between friendship and business. “It’s up to you as an artist to decide what you want and to be smart about your relationships,” Reminisce concluded.
With over a decade in the Nigerian music scene, Reminisce’s reflections highlight the importance of maintaining boundaries and staying true to oneself, even when surrounded by the glitz and glamor of fame.
