Terry G Ignites Debate with Bold Comparison to Beyoncé and Jay-Z

 Nigerian musician Gabriel Oche Amanyi, popularly known as Terry G, has stirred widespread controversy following a statement on June 25, 2025, comparing his musical legacy to that of global icons Beyoncé and Jay-Z. 

In a post shared on social media, Terry G expressed frustration over Nigeria’s tendency to dismiss veteran artists, contrasting it with the West, where legends are celebrated for life. He argued that his contributions to Afrobeat and street-hop, with hits like Free Madness and Akpako Master, deserve enduring respect akin to the reverence for Beyoncé’s 32 Grammy wins and Jay-Z’s $2 billion empire.

The comparison has divided fans and critics. Supporters highlight Terry G’s pioneering role in Nigeria’s $1 billion music industry, citing his 2000s influence on 5 million listeners through raw, energetic tracks. 

Critics, however, argue that his claim overlooks Beyoncé’s global cultural impact, with 1.5 billion streams in 2024, and Jay-Z’s business ventures, including Roc Nation. Terry G’s statement, liked by 10,000 users on social media, has sparked a broader conversation about valuing Nigeria’s 2,000 active musicians, with calls for a national music hall of fame.