- – Brain Jotter’s viral challenge brought Mike Ejeagha’s old song “Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo” back into the limelight, leading to widespread participation and some public debates on financial rewards.
- – Brain Jotter visited Ejeagha and gifted him N2 million as appreciation, clarifying that there were no profits made from the challenge.
- – VDM argued that instead of seeking royalties, Ejeagha should appreciate the revival of his music, which introduced it to a new generation.
Nigerian social media influence, Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as Verydarkman (VDM), has addressed the ongoing debate surrounding comedian Brain Jotter and the legendary folksinger, Gentleman Mike Ejeagha. VDM took the opportunity to share his thoughts on the situation, which has caught the attention of netizens across the country.
Brain Jotter’s viral challenge
Brain Jotter launched an online challenge featuring Mike Ejeagha’s classic song “Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo,” which has led to widespread participation from various celebrities. This creative move has revived the decades-old song, bringing it back into the public eye.
Although there has been an outpouring of appreciation, some Nigerians believe that Brain Jotter should reward Ejeagha financially for using his song to gain internet traction.
Responding to the public sentiment, Brain Jotter and his team visited Mike Ejeagha in Enugu state and gifted him N2 million as a gesture of appreciation. The comedian clarified that the money came from his own pocket and that he did not make any profit from the challenge going viral.
VDM’s perspective on royalties
Amid varying opinions, Verydarkman has taken a stand, suggesting that instead of Brain Jotter owing Ejeagha, the latter should actually thank the comedian for revitalizing his song. VDM argued that the exposure brought by Brain Jotter’s challenge has introduced Ejeagha’s music to a new generation. According to VDM, this kind of resurgence is something any artist should cherish.
“There is an old song by Desperate Chicks that went viral on TikTok lately, and thousands joined the challenge. Have they asked for anything from the song’s user?” VDM reasoned. He emphasized that Mike Ejeagha should be grateful to Brain Jotter for keeping his musical legacy alive.
VDM further mentioned that Brain Jotter did not remix or sample Ejeagha’s song; it was simply a part of his challenge that happened to go viral organically. “God just used him to revive Ejeagha’s legacy, and now everyone is attacking Brain Jotter?” he questioned.
Public reactions to VDM’s statement
Verydarkman’s comments have sparked reactions across social media. User @MrFEM0 remarked, “Brain Jotter was right; all royalties on that song go to Mike.” Another user, @Illuminou2000, suggested that Mike Ejeagha should be celebrating his legacy rather than seeking a lawyer on what they view as bad advice.
@TOLUWANIMi166 added, “He is right on this. Who was listening to the song before? And if Brain Jotter wasn’t famous, the song wouldn’t trend.” Meanwhile, @huncle_miiley aired concerns about the expectation of royalties, stating, “Instead of accusing people out of nowhere, we should focus on spreading the song.“
Overall, the debate continues, with clear opinions on both sides. As discussions evolve, the larger community hopes for a resolution that respects both the revival of classic songs and the genuine efforts of contemporary creators.
Watch VDM’s statement below.
