Renowned cinematographer, Buari Olalekan Oluwasegun, popularly known as Unlimited L.A, has shed light on the infusion of foreign cultures and nudity in Nigerian music videos, attributing the trend to the demands of music consumers.
In a recent interview with Channels Television, Unlimited L.A explained that artists often request specific cultural elements or nudity in their music videos to resonate with their target audience, which may include fans in the U.S., Europe, or Africa. According to him, the influence of Nigerians in the diaspora plays a significant role in incorporating diverse cultural elements into the videos.
Acknowledging the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria, Unlimited L.A emphasized that the infusion of foreign cultures is not a negation of the country’s own traditions. Instead, it is a strategic decision driven by the desire to connect with a broad and diverse audience.
Addressing concerns about the potential erosion of cultural respect and decency, Unlimited L.A highlighted that the incorporation of foreign cultures is a deliberate choice made to appeal to the preferences of the audience, particularly those in the diaspora.
Despite the incorporation of diverse cultural elements, Unlimited L.A expressed pride in the progress of the Nigerian cinematography industry. He noted that while in the past, many Nigerian music videos were shot outside the country, the current trend sees a shift, with most Afrobeats music videos now being filmed within Nigeria. This shift reflects the industry’s growth and the increasing recognition of Nigeria as a vibrant hub for creative productions.
In essence, Unlimited L.A’s insights provide a nuanced perspective on the relationship between music videos, cultural representation, and audience preferences, highlighting the dynamic and evolving nature of the Nigerian music and cinematography landscape.
