Popular Nigerian talent manager and entrepreneur, Ubi Franklin, has stirred controversy with his recent comments on the challenges faced by music artists, claiming that promiscuity remains the biggest problem among both male and female performers.
Speaking on a fresh episode of the Culture Sonic Podcast, Franklin offered insights into the behind-the-scenes struggles many entertainers encounter as they rise to fame. He stated that while managing an upcoming artist can be relatively easy, things often spiral out of control once they gain success and recognition.
“The only artist that can be controlled is the one that has not had a hit,” Franklin declared. “Once they have a hit, the first biggest problem for artists is womanising. For female singers, it’s promiscuity as well.”
The Triple MG co-founder explained that with fame comes not only wealth but also a flood of attention—much of which artists, especially younger ones, find difficult to manage. He emphasized that the sudden exposure to luxury and adoration often leads them down a path of recklessness, particularly in their personal relationships.
This candid revelation adds to growing concerns about the ethical conduct and lifestyle habits of entertainers in Nigeria’s vibrant but controversial entertainment scene.
Promiscuity, as highlighted by Franklin, has long been a recurring issue in the global music industry, with numerous artists over the years becoming embroiled in allegations involving cheating, infidelity, sexual harassment, and even rape. Several Nigerian musicians have had their reputations tarnished by leaked bedroom videos, controversial interviews, and accusations from fans or former partners.
Ubi Franklin, who has worked with major acts like Iyanya and Tekno, said the issue isn’t just about personal choices but how those choices begin to negatively affect an artist’s career, mental health, and brand image.
“Once that fame enters, discipline flies out the window,” he noted. “You begin to see artists who were once humble and hungry for growth suddenly derail because of relationships, distractions, and the false sense of invincibility fame gives.”
While his remarks sparked mixed reactions online, some listeners agreed that the music industry needs more emotional maturity, structured mentorship, and better psychological support systems for rising stars.
Others, however, have criticized his generalization, suggesting that not all successful artists lose control or fall into immoral behavior after hitting fame.
Franklin’s comments come at a time when celebrity culture in Nigeria is under scrutiny, with fans becoming increasingly vocal about the moral responsibilities of public figures. Social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram have amplified fan reactions, holding artists accountable for their behavior off-stage as much as their performances.
Meanwhile, Franklin’s podcast appearance has reignited debates about whether the entertainment industry glamorizes unhealthy lifestyles and if enough is being done to educate artists about the pitfalls of stardom.
As the industry continues to evolve, stakeholders like Ubi Franklin are calling for a shift in focus—from fame to discipline, longevity, and personal development. His statements, though provocative, reflect an urgent need for conversations around ethics, self-control, and responsible fame management among Nigerian artists.