Davido, Portable, Other Celebrities Who Use Controversies to Promote Their Songs, Concert and Movies

There is a famous saying: there is no good or bad publicity, all publicity is publicity. In the ever-competitive entertainment industry, standing out often requires more than just talent.

Over the last few years, the Nigerian music and movie industry has grown by leaps and bounds, employing various PR tactics to push and promote content. From the genuine social media artist promotions to controversies to get recognition.

The strategies have evolved from the free giveaways of the mid-2010s to TikTok dance challenges, artists engaging in online wars with rival fans, and calling out other artists on Twitter. For celebrities like Davido and Portable, controversy has become a strategic tool to capture the public’s attention and promote their work.

We will examine three cases to analyze how these artists and others have harnessed the power of controversy to remain relevant and in the spotlight. These are some of the Celebrities Who Use Controversies to Promote Their Songs, Concert and Movies.

What Davido has with controversy!

David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, is no stranger to controversy. In the last few years, Nigeria’s sensational singer has been enmeshed in one controversy after another that almost ruined his career. Davido has come to terms with the fact that bad news about him sells faster than good news.

In the past 12 months, Davido has been called out by at least three American models and one French bombshell. These accusations, often involving cheating or extramarital affairs, typically surface just days or weeks before one of his mega concerts or shows in America. This recurring theme has worked well, as his shows continue to be a huge success.

The question is, how does this work? The extensive media coverage these stories receive helps to create more awareness about the singer and his upcoming concerts. These public spats not only keep fans engaged but also serve as a backdrop for the release of new music and the promotion of upcoming shows.

Portable’s Use of Web Controversies to Stay Relevant

Habeeb Okikiola, better known as Portable, became an overnight celebrity with his hit song “Zazu Zeh.” However, it’s his knack for controversy that has kept him in the limelight. From baby mama drama to public disputes with show promoters, bold claims, and social media antics, Portable’s reputation as the king of controversies has garnered significant attention, translating into increased visibility for his music and performances. He has learned how to use controversy to stay relevant.

Eniola Ajao and her Bobrisky tactic

Nollywood actress and filmmaker Eniola Ajao recently experienced the complexities of controversy. During the premiere of her movie “Ajakaju,” she pulled a stunt with crossdresser Bobrisky that nearly backfired. Eniola Ajao named Bobrisky the best-dressed female at the event, a move that stirred strong emotions and may not have yielded the desired outcome. However, it undeniably created massive awareness for her film. Like it or not, naming Bobrisky as the best-dressed female might have been a joke, but many didn’t find it funny.

Oladips faking his death

After a relatively quiet year, the singer ended 2023 with major drama. On November 14, his management announced his death in an official statement, shocking everyone just weeks after Mohbad’s passing. Things got strange when colleague Qdot posted on Instagram, “My Gee is alive.” Was this just another Skibii-themed PR stunt? Shortly after, the singer’s team started promoting his album. They deleted the obituary post, and the singer posted an Instagram Story video confirming he was alive. In later media appearances, he criticized his management for posting about his death.

Without a doubt, these celebrities have navigated their controversies in different ways, successfully using these situations to maintain or even increase their popularity and relevance in the industry.