Nigerian singer Gabriel Oche Amanyi, popularly known as Terry G, has opened up on how a controversial incident involving a DJ negatively affected his career.
The incident reportedly occurred on June 5, 2016, during an event in Lagos, where Terry G allegedly assaulted DJ Phreez, a protege of DJ Jimmy Jatt. The conflict arose when DJ Phreez opted to play another artist’s track in an attempt to prompt Terry G to wrap up his performance.
Terry G’s response, a physical altercation with DJ Phreez, stirred significant controversy within Nigeria’s music industry and led to the DJs Association of Nigeria (DJAN) taking decisive action against him. This included blacklisting Terry G, a move that barred him from the support of the DJ community during performances and radio airplay.
In an interview on the Afrobeats Podcast, Terry G acknowledged the incident’s adverse effects on his career progression, describing it as a setback that hindered his growth as an artist. He expressed regret over his actions, emphasizing that he subsequently extended apologies to both DJ Phreez and DJ Jimmy Jatt, seeking to reconcile and mend the strained relationships.
Terry G recounted that the incident caused significant friction between him and many industry stakeholders, leading to a decline in opportunities for collaboration and performance. He mentioned that the blacklist not only limited his radio play but also affected his bookings for events, as many organizers were hesitant to associate with him due to the negative publicity.
Despite these challenges, Terry G has worked diligently to rebuild his reputation within the industry. He shared that making amends with the DJ community was a crucial step in this process. By personally reaching out to those he wronged and demonstrating his commitment to professional conduct, he has gradually regained some of the trust and support he lost.
During the interview, Terry G also reflected on the lessons learned from the ordeal. He noted that the experience taught him the importance of maintaining composure and professionalism, regardless of the circumstances. He advised upcoming artists to prioritize respect and humility in their interactions within the industry, emphasizing that these values are essential for long-term success.
In conclusion, while the incident with DJ Phreez significantly impacted Terry G’s career, he remains hopeful and determined to continue his journey in the music industry. He believes that his efforts to make amends and his renewed focus on positive relationships will eventually restore his standing and enable him to achieve his artistic goals.
