Nigerian singer and songwriter Augustine Miles Kelechi Okechukwu, popularly known as Tekno, has revealed that he was labelled lazy by some people after his music career experienced a decline in visibility.
The Afrobeats star said the perception surrounding his career journey did not reflect the reality of what he was experiencing at the time. According to Tekno, many people assumed he had lost focus or stopped working hard when his reduced public appearances and fewer music releases created questions among fans.
The singer explained that every artiste goes through different phases in their career, including periods of growth, challenges, and reinvention. He noted that the music industry changes constantly, and maintaining relevance requires adapting to new trends while managing personal and professional circumstances.
Tekno, who rose to fame with hit songs that gained popularity across Nigeria and internationally, remains one of the influential figures in the Afrobeats movement. His unique sound, songwriting ability, and production skills contributed to his success and earned him recognition among music lovers.
The artiste said public perception can sometimes be difficult for entertainers because fans often judge success based on visibility, performances, and frequent releases. He stressed that taking time away from the spotlight does not necessarily mean an artiste is inactive or unwilling to create.
Tekno’s comments have generated reactions from fans and industry observers, many of whom praised him for speaking openly about the pressures faced by musicians. Some supporters also highlighted the importance of understanding the personal challenges that can affect entertainers behind the scenes.
Music analysts note that many Nigerian artistes experience changes in popularity due to evolving audience preferences, competition, health concerns, business decisions, and shifts within the entertainment industry.
Despite the challenges, Tekno continues to maintain a strong fan base and remains respected for his contributions to Nigerian music. His journey reflects the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry, where artistes often experience different stages throughout their careers.
