```html Daddy Showkey Praises Pasuma, Calling Him His "Only Friend" 24 June 2025 Nigerian music icon Daddy Showkey has publicly lauded Fuji maestro Alhaji Alabi Pasuma as a true and steadfast friend, revealing the depth of their bond during a recent performance. The declaration highlights a rare display of camaraderie within the Nigerian music industry, and shines a light on the challenges faced by some veteran artists.

Showkey's Testimony of Friendship During a break in his performance, Daddy Showkey expressed his gratitude towards Pasuma, emphasizing the significance of their relationship. He stated that despite not having many close friends in the music industry, Pasuma has consistently been a source of support and reliability.

"You see, this man, he was with me in bad times and good times," Daddy Showkey shared with the audience. "For many years, many people didn't see me sing, and they didn't know what I was going through. I had an accident in 2007, and for three years, I was in the hospital. Pasuma took care of my family. I can never forget him in my life."

A Bond Forged in Hardship Daddy Showkey's revelation sheds light on a challenging period in his life following a 2007 accident that sidelined him for several years. His statement emphasizes Pasuma's crucial role in providing support during this difficult time, extending beyond professional courtesy to encompass genuine care for Showkey's family.

Context: The Enduring Legacy of Two Music Icons Daddy Showkey, known for pioneering the Galala music genre – a fusion of Reggae, Highlife, and traditional Nigerian sounds – rose to prominence in the 1990s. His hits like "Somebody Call My Name," "Diana," and "Fire Fire" remain classics, solidifying his place in Nigerian music history. Pasuma, on the other hand, is a celebrated Fuji artist who has revolutionized the genre with his contemporary style and appeal to younger audiences. Both artists represent significant eras in Nigerian music, bridging different styles and generations.

Expert Perspective: The Value of Loyalty in the Entertainment Industry Dr. Kemi Osundare, a professor of ethnomusicology at the University of Lagos, comments on the significance of Daddy Showkey's statement: "In an industry often characterized by competition and fleeting relationships, Daddy Showkey's public acknowledgment of Pasuma's loyalty is noteworthy. It underscores the importance of genuine connection and support, particularly for artists who have navigated the peaks and valleys of fame. This also reflects a cultural value of ‘brotherhood’ that resonates deeply within the Nigerian entertainment landscape."

Challenges Faced by Veteran Entertainers The story also touches upon the broader issue of economic challenges faced by many veteran Nigerian entertainers. After years in the spotlight, some artists struggle to maintain financial stability, often due to factors such as changing tastes, health issues, and inadequate financial planning. Showkey's experience underscores the need for better support systems and resources for artists as they navigate their careers and transition into later stages of their lives.

Looking to the Future: Sampling and Reimagining Classics With the increasing trend of Afrobeats artists drawing inspiration from classic Nigerian songs, there's renewed hope that Daddy Showkey's extensive discography might find new life through sampling and reimaginings. This could not only introduce his music to a new generation but also provide him with a fresh source of income and recognition.

Music critic, Osagie Alonge, notes: "The resurgence of sampling in Afrobeats presents a significant opportunity for veteran artists. By breathing new life into classic sounds, contemporary musicians can pay homage to their predecessors while also creating commercially successful tracks. This symbiotic relationship can benefit both the established and emerging generations of Nigerian musicians." ```