Veteran Nigerian musician Bright Chimezie has challenged the popular belief among some artists that smoking and drinking alcohol help to boost creativity.
The singer, famous for his hit song “Because English,” said such claims are untrue and misleading.
In a recent episode of the CreativTea Podcast, Chimezie explained that artists who smoke or drink are often just having fun and not necessarily gaining inspiration or improving their creative work.
“The claims that you need to drink or smoke to get music inspiration is false,” Chimezie said.
“If you are drinking or smoking, you are just having fun. That doesn’t mean it will boost your creativity.”
Bright Chimezie, who has been in the Nigerian music scene for decades, stressed that creativity comes naturally and should not depend on substances like alcohol or cigarettes.
His comments come amid a common perception among some younger musicians and entertainers who believe that using alcohol or drugs can help free their minds and spark new ideas.
Chimezie’s perspective offers a reminder that inspiration often arises from life experiences, hard work, and genuine passion for the craft not from substance use.
Bright Chimezie is a renowned highlife and Afrobeat musician known for his unique style called Ziggima music. He rose to fame in the 1990s with hit tracks that combined traditional sounds with modern beats, making him a household name in Nigeria and beyond.
He has always been outspoken about positive messages in his music and personal life, often promoting discipline, cultural pride, and healthy living.
Chimezie’s advice encourages young artists and fans to focus on developing their skills, drawing inspiration from real-life experiences, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Many successful musicians around the world, including Nigerian legends, have created memorable songs without relying on smoking or drinking.
The musician’s words may help clear the misunderstanding that substances are necessary for creativity, instead shining a light on talent and dedication as the true sources of artistic inspiration.
