The Cost of Producing Music and the Struggles of Benue’s Upcoming Artists

Producing a song in Nigeria today is no small feat, especially for independent artists trying to break through in places like Benue State. The financial demands alone can be overwhelming. A standard studio session for recording, mixing, and mastering can range from ₦50,000 to ₦300,000, depending on the producer’s reputation and the quality of equipment. For artists aiming for radio-ready sound or music videos, the cost can climb even higher—sometimes exceeding ₦500,000 when factoring in visuals, promotion, and distribution.

For many upcoming musicians in Benue, this is a steep mountain to climb. Most operate without sponsorship, record label backing, or access to grants. They rely on personal savings, support from friends, or income from unrelated jobs to fund their passion. This financial strain often forces artists to compromise on quality, settling for low-budget production that may not compete nationally or internationally.

What makes this struggle even more frustrating is the fact that Benue has produced legendary musicians like 2Baba, Terry G, and others who have made their mark on the Nigerian music scene. Their success stories should have opened doors or inspired a stronger industry presence in the state—but the reality is different. Despite these icons, breaking into the limelight remains a daunting challenge for most upcoming artists in Benue.

Beyond cost, there are deeper challenges:

Limited access to professional studios: While Makurdi and Gboko have a few recording spots, many lack the advanced equipment or experienced producers needed to craft standout tracks.

Scarcity of mentorship and industry connections: Networking is crucial in music, but Benue’s scene is still growing, and many artists struggle to connect with established figures who could guide or promote them.

Low visibility and audience engagement: Without strong local media support or platforms dedicated to showcasing emerging talent, many artists find it hard to build a fanbase.

Cultural and genre bias: Artists who experiment with genres outside traditional Tiv or Idoma sounds sometimes face resistance or lack of appreciation from local audiences.

Yet, despite these hurdles, some Benue artists are producing top-quality songs—tracks that rival mainstream releases in sound, creativity, and message. Unfortunately, these songs are rarely heard outside Benue, due to limited promotion, lack of national exposure, and the absence of industry gatekeepers willing to take a chance on fresh talent from the region.

Still, the passion burns. From Afrobeat to gospel, hip-hop to indigenous sounds, the creativity is undeniable. What’s missing is a robust support system—one that includes affordable studios, music grants, local showcases, and media platforms that spotlight homegrown talent.

Until then, many artists will keep grinding, hoping that one viral moment or one supportive listener will change their story.

No comments yet—why not start the conversation?