The Nigerian music industry, once a budding scene, has blossomed into a global powerhouse, propelled by the infectious rhythms of Afrobeats. This evolution has been nothing short of remarkable, witnessing the rise of visionary producers like Sarz and Kiddominant, whose beats have captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. Equally impressive are the record labels that have emerged, such as Mavin, Chocolate City, and YBNL, nurturing and amplifying the talents of the nation’s finest artists. These labels have served as incubators for stars like Rema and Fireboy, whose names have become synonymous with the infectious energy and undeniable appeal of Nigerian music. As with any thriving cultural movement, the Nigerian music industry has also cultivated a passionate fanbase, giving birth to a phenomenon known as stan culture — an extension of fandom that transcends mere admiration. This subculture, while rooted in genuine appreciation for artists, has the potential to manifest in both positive and negative ways.
“My girlfriend’s jealous ’cause I talk about you 24/7 / but she doesn’t know you like I know you Slim, no one does,” rapped Eminem in Stan (2000). Once a chilling reference to an overzealous fan in Eminem’s iconic song, the term has undergone a remarkable transformation. What began as a cautionary tale about the dangers of obsessive fandom has now evolved into a badge of honor, a term embraced by devoted enthusiasts to declare their unwavering allegiance to a celebrity, public figure, or musician. On the other hand, the concept of stan culture still breeds parasocial relationships between celebrities and their loving fans, blurring the lines of admiration and obsession. Fans who adopt the core of this label may feel permitted to engage in incessant idolization, intrusive behavior, and an overall entitlement sense over the lives of their beloved celebrities.
This is not a new development; it has been brewing for years, a gradual shift in cultural perception that has now reached a crescendo. The sheer volume of self-proclaimed stans populating social media platforms is no longer a surprise, but rather a reflection of the deep connections forged between fans and their idols in the digital age. These dedicated supporters form vibrant online communities, united by their shared admiration and fervor. They engage in spirited discussions, share fan art, and fiercely defend their chosen icons from criticism or perceived slights. The 2000s witnessed the rise of D’Banj’s “Kokolets,” a formidable legion of female diehard fans who reigned supreme in their unwavering support for the artist. This phenomenon is not isolated as 2face and P-square also cultivated their own devoted women followings, the African Queens and Omoges, respectively. This practice of celebrity worship has been an enduring aspect of popular culture, a fervent flame that shows no signs of abating anytime soon.
In the contemporary Nigerian music landscape, we bear witness to the emergence of various stan communities, each rallying behind their respective icons. From Wizkid FC to Davido’s 30BG gang, Burna Boy’s Outsiders, Tems’ Rebels, and Rema’s Ravers, these fan bases testify to the undying passion that Nigerian music inspires. However, one stan community that demands particular attention is the Marlians, a following assembled by the enigmatic Naira Marley. After releasing the viral hit Am I a Yahoo Boy in 2019, Naira Marley ignited a cultural phenomenon that saw countless young Nigerians discard their belts and embrace the “dignitary” lifestyle of a Marlian. Alongside anthems like Soapy and Opotoyi, Naira Marley assembled his very own Avengers, a formidable fan base that quickly became a symbol of youthful rebellion and defiance. Back then, belonging to the Marlians was a badge of honor, a symbol of one’s coolness and avant-garde sensibilities. Many took immense pride in this association, some even hailing Naira Marley as a revolutionary figure.
Evidently, stan culture has become an essential part of the modern music industry, a force that cannot be ignored. It is no stretch to say that the extent of an artist’s popularity is almost directly proportional to the fervor and size of their fan base. Fans are no longer mere passive consumers of music but active participants who are shaping the future of the industry with their unwavering support and engagement. It brings with it many advantages. Stan culture promotes relevancy and fosters healthy competition by keeping mainstream artists on their toes, challenging them to constantly elevate their craft. Simultaneously, it provides the necessary pressure for up-and-coming artists to hone their skills and improve their game, lest the ever-growing pool of talent overshadow them. The power of stanship is undeniable, it amplifies an artist’s visibility and streaming numbers through tweets and social media hype, building public anticipation for new releases. Stans are instrumental in directing an artist’s creative approach, providing direct feedback through social media platforms. This two-way communication has become an integral part of the creative process, with artists like Blaqbonez actively seeking input from his fans through Twitter polls, ensuring that his art resonates. There is also the dynamic between Ayra Starr and her fan base, aptly named Mobstars. It has become the norm for every artist to brand their cult following, fostering a sense of belonging and ownership among their fans.
However, stan culture also has an ugly side. Healthy competition can soon transform into a fierce rivalry on both social media and in the real world. From Davido and Burna Boy’s rivalry to the 2019 beef between M.I. and Vector, Nigerian artists have had their fair share of clashes. Unfortunately, stans often get wrapped up in their fights leading to full-blown social media issues because of their favorite artists. The long-term effects of stan culture are concerning. On a personal level, obsessive fan behavior can lead to unhealthy attachments, emotional distress, and even mental health issues. Stans may struggle to maintain healthy relationships and boundaries, as their sense of reality becomes skewed by their idolization of celebrities. There have been instances of women tattooing popular artists on their body parts. Moreover, the toxicity of stan culture can have a detrimental impact on the mental well-being of the celebrities themselves. Constant harassment, cyberbullying, and the invasion of privacy take its toll on their emotional and psychological health. Some celebrities have even spoken out about the damaging effects of stan culture, urging fans to practice moderation.
Indeed, while social media plays a pivotal role in amplifying and facilitating stan culture, it is not the sole factor that fuels this phenomenon. Long before the advent of online communities, dedicated fans of Nigerian artists such as Pasuma Wonder, Fela, Saheed Osupa, and countless others have existed on the streets, their passion burning bright and unwavering. For as long as humans have been capable of forming deep emotional connections, there has been an innate excitement, a renewed interest that arises when it comes to their beloved idols. Stans, at their core, are driven by a desire to express their admiration and ensure that their favorite artists know they are cared for and supported. What better way to bare one’s heart than through the fervent display of loyalty and ardor that characterize stan culture? But striking a balance between expressing one’s passion and maintaining a respectful boundary is essential. While it is natural for stans to feel a sense of ownership and protectiveness over their favorite artists, it is crucial to remember that these individuals are human beings deserving of personal space. Crossing the line with toxic behaviors is counterproductive and undermines the very essence of what it means to be a true fan.
As the Nigerian music scene continues to captivate audiences worldwide, the potential pitfalls of stan culture must be propagated, so that the public is well-aware when their fan behavior becomes borderline obsessive. By fostering an environment of respect, moderation, and healthy boundaries, the vibrant spirit of Nigerian music continues to thrive, fueled by the passion of its devoted fans. But perhaps don’t insult Wizkid in front of the formidable Wizkid FC, lest you incur the wrath of a fanbase known for their fierce loyalty.