When veteran singer Sky B recently spoke about Burna Boy, Timaya and other Port Harcourt artists, many saw it as another celebrity grievance. But beneath the headline-making comments lies a deeper story about legacy, recognition and the painful reality of watching an industry move on without you.
Speaking on the KAA Truth podcast, the singer behind the once-popular hit Am Calling (Ma Bebe)expressed frustration over what he described as a lack of support from artists who came after him, despite his contributions to the growth of Port Harcourt’s music scene.
For Sky B, the issue is not simply about fame. It is about feeling forgotten.
Before the Spotlight Shifted
Long before Port Harcourt became known as the home of some of Nigeria’s biggest music stars, Palisade Ogunka popularly known as Sky B was among the artists carrying the city’s flag.
During the late 2000s, he enjoyed nationwide recognition with songs such as Pray For Me and Am Calling (Ma Bebe), among others, becoming one of the notable voices from Rivers State at a time when Lagos remained the dominant centre of Nigeria’s music industry.
Like many artists of his generation, Sky B believes he played a role in creating opportunities for musicians from Port Harcourt and helping the city establish itself as a respected music hub. Years later, however, he says his contribution has largely been forgotten.
“These Are Brothers I Helped”
During the interview, Sky B reflected on the support he claims to have given fellow artists during his peak years.
According to him, he used his influence, connections and resources to help promote artists from Port Harcourt, including Timaya and Mr 2Kay. He said:
“These are brothers I have helped in the past.”
”I helped many artists like Mr. 2Kay and Timaya. We made sacrifices for Port Harcourt music industry. We invested a lot of resources.”
His disappointment appears to stem not only from a lack of assistance but also from what he sees as a lack of acknowledgement.
The singer also recounted an incident involving an unnamed artist who allegedly turned down an opportunity to perform at an event because Sky B was attached to the engagement. He claimed:
“I once gave a PA to the Governor an artiste’s number and he called the artiste and told him he wants him to perform with me at an event and the artiste declined that he doesn’t want to share stage with me.”
“The artiste rejected the contract because he doesn’t want me to be part of the deal.”
For Sky B, moments like that reinforce his belief that many of the people he once supported have distanced themselves from him.
Why Burna Boy Became the Focus
While Sky B mentioned several artists during the conversation, it was his comments about Burna Boy that generated the most attention.
Interestingly, the veteran singer did not claim that he personally helped launch Burna Boy’s career. Instead, his argument was broader. According to him, Burna Boy belongs to a generation of Port Harcourt artists who benefited from a path that earlier musicians helped create. Because of that, he believes the Grammy-winning star should have extended support to those who came before him. Sky B said:
“What is annoying me most now is Burna Boy coming into limelight and not remembering me and those who paved the way for Port Harcourt musicians.”
“He is supposed to support me financially or collaborate with me to rejuvenate my career.”
The statement has divided opinion. While some agree that pioneers deserve recognition and support, others argue that success does not automatically create an obligation to revive another artist’s career.
The Pain of Being Forgotten
Beyond the specific names mentioned, Sky B’s comments reveal a struggle many veteran entertainers face.
The music industry moves quickly. New stars emerge, trends change and audiences shift their attention. In the process, artists who once occupied centre stage can find themselves on the margins of conversations they helped start.
For some, that transition is simply part of the business. For others, it feels like they’ve been erased.
Sky B’s frustration appears rooted in the belief that the sacrifices made by his generation are not being adequately recognised by those now enjoying the benefits of a thriving Port Harcourt music scene. He even suggested that regional divisions may contribute to the lack of support he has experienced.
“Assuming I am a Yoruba or an Igbo man, maybe they could have considered helping me,” he said. “But because I am from Rivers the envy is too much.”
More Than a Burna Boy Story
Although Burna Boy’s name has dominated conversations around the interview, Sky B’s remarks point to a larger issue.
At its core, this is not just a story about one superstar or one disappointed veteran. It is a story about legacy, gratitude and what happens when the pioneers of a movement feel left behind.
For a man who once stood among Port Harcourt’s most recognisable music exports, the deepest frustration may not be the lack of a collaboration or financial support. It may simply be the feeling that the industry has moved on without looking back.
