Unpacking Music Video Landscape Between Nigeria And South Africa By Kehinde Badmus

The music industries in Nigeria and South Africa are thriving, with a plethora of talented artists and film producers pushing the boundaries of creativity. One aspect of this creativity is the music video, a visual representation of the artist’s message and style.

In this article, I’d like to explore the characteristic features of music videos in Nigeria and South Africa, highlighting their similarities and differences.

In Nigeria, we are known for our vibrant colors and bold fashion statements. Artists like Davido or Yemi Alade often incorporate traditional African elements, such as clothing and dance, into their videos. Storytelling in Nigerian music videos often focuses on love, relationships, and social issues as well as showcasing the root side of the country.

In contrast, South African music videos often showcase the country’s diverse landscapes and urban settings. Artists like Cassper Nyovest and Nasty C incorporate elements of township culture and social commentary into their videos.

Storytelling in South African music videos often focuses on social issues, politics, and personal struggles. For example, Cassper Nyovest’s “Malome” video features a mix of urban and township settings, with a storyline that explores themes of identity and social commentary.

While both Nigerian and South African music videos share some similarities in my opinion, such as their use of vibrant colors and bold fashion statements, they also have some notable differences. Nigerian videos tend to focus more on storytelling and traditional African elements, while South African videos often prioritize social commentary and showcasing the country’s diverse landscapes.

A close look at the dissimilarities will reveal that most Nigerian music videos are now shot in a studio while finishing most of the work on post production unlike south African music videos where most of it are basically outdoors

In conclusion, the music video styles in Nigeria and South Africa are unique and reflective of each country’s cultural identity. By exploring these styles, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the creativity and diversity of African music.

Kehinde Ayotimilehin Badmus, a Filmmaker writes from Lagos, Nigeria.