Terry G Says He Paved Way

Terry G claims he made a cultural impact in music by giving Nigerian artistes the courage to smoke cannabis onscreen, sparking debate online

Cultural impact in music is what controversial Nigerian singer Gabriel Oche Amanyi, popularly known as Terry G, believes he contributed to the country’s music industry.

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The eccentric performer sparked a flurry of reactions on Sunday after he claimed that his boldness paved the way for other artistes to express themselves freely, including smoking cannabis on screen.

The ‘Free Madness’ crooner posted on his official X handle, saying that Nigerian musicians lacked the courage to smoke marijuana publicly before he emerged. According to him, his daring persona and public image made it acceptable for others to follow suit.

“No hard feelings, it’s all love,” he wrote, “but no forget say if no be my sacrifice, none of your fav go get liver to smoke Igbo for screen.”

Terry G’s statement was met with scepticism from many users who pointed to iconic Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, who famously smoked cannabis during performances and interviews decades ago.

Critics argued that Terry G’s claim ignored the long history of rebellious expression in Nigerian music.

Still, his supporters commended him for disrupting the norm and pushing the boundaries of mainstream pop culture during the late 2000s.

Terry G, also known as the Akpako Master, became known for his high-energy performances, eccentric lyrics, and unapologetic lifestyle, all of which left a mark on Nigerian entertainment.

Though opinions remain divided, Terry G’s claim has revived discussions about personal freedom, artistic expression, and the legacy of controversy in shaping music culture in Nigeria.

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Whether he pioneered cannabis use onscreen or simply amplified it, there is no denying that his presence altered the tempo of the industry.