Grammy Using Nigerians to Boost Los Angeles GDP – Cobhams Asuquo Claims
Renowned Nigerian music producer and songwriter Cobhams Asuquo has sparked fresh debate in the entertainment industry after claiming that the Grammy Awards are using Nigerian artists to boost the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Los Angeles.
Speaking during a recent interview, Cobhams argued that the growing presence of Nigerian and African artists at the Grammys is not just about recognition but also about the economic value these artists bring to the host city. According to him, the influx of Nigerian musicians, fans, media teams, and industry stakeholders contributes significantly to tourism, hospitality, and local business revenue in Los Angeles during Grammy week.
Cobhams noted that Nigerian artists now command global attention, filling venues, driving online engagement, and attracting international audiences to events surrounding the Grammy Awards. He stressed that this cultural influence translates directly into economic gains for the city, from hotel bookings and flight traffic to brand partnerships and live performances.
The award-winning producer further questioned whether Nigerian artists are receiving commensurate benefits and structural support from global award platforms, despite their undeniable contribution to the global music economy. He called for African creatives to better understand their worth and negotiate from a position of strength in international spaces.
His comments come amid the rising dominance of Afrobeats on the global stage, with Nigerian artists consistently earning Grammy nominations, wins, and sold-out shows worldwide. While many celebrate this global acceptance, others believe it is time for African stakeholders to demand deeper investment, ownership, and long-term value beyond trophies and headlines.
Cobhams’ statement has since generated mixed reactions online, with some agreeing that Nigerian music powers global entertainment economies, while others see Grammy recognition as a mutually beneficial exchange. Regardless, the conversation highlights the economic power of Nigerian creatives and their growing influence beyond music alone.
