Nigerian juju music icon Sir Shina Peters has sparked heated conversations across social media after boldly asserting that he has more “evergreen” classic albums than the late global pop superstar, Michael Jackson.
In a candid interview on The Honest Bunch Podcast, the 67-year-old Afro-Juju pioneer argued that true musical greatness lies not in fame or awards but in the lasting impact of one’s songs.
“The only thing you can show for showbiz at the end is how many evergreens you have produced.
To my credit, I have four evergreens. Even Michael Jackson has just two—Off the Wall and Thriller.
So, if I have four, I am accomplished,”
— Sir Shina Peters on The Honest Bunch.
Sir Shina Peters, celebrated for revolutionising juju music with his fusion of highlife, Afrobeat, and pop, rose to fame with his 1989 classic Ace (Afro-Juju Series 1), followed by Shinamania (1990). These records not only broke sales records in Nigeria but also redefined party music across West Africa.
Music historians and fans often cite Ace, Shinamania, Experience, and Dancing Time among his enduring works — all of which continue to enjoy airplay decades later.
According to Blueprint Nigeria and Wikipedia, the veteran musician has released over 15 albums since the 1980s, a body of work credited with influencing legends like King Sunny Ade, Ebenezer Obey, and a generation of Afrobeat performers.
Beyond comparing himself to Michael Jackson, Sir Shina used the interview to critique Nigeria’s contemporary music scene, accusing younger artists of prioritising virality over artistry.
“Our music had depth, message, and melody. These days, everyone just wants to trend,”
— Sir Shina Peters.
This sentiment mirrors warnings from other musical elders who lament the “fast-food” nature of modern Afrobeats, emphasising the need for longevity over instant fame.
The statement quickly went viral on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, splitting opinion across Nigeria’s music community.
Some fans applauded the juju maestro for his confidence, arguing that his music remains timeless and culturally grounded. Others, however, dismissed the claim, citing Michael Jackson’s historic achievements — including Thriller’s 70 million global sales and its record-breaking Grammy haul.
Media analyst Rotimi Adejumo told Pulse Nigeria, “Shina’s statement might sound boastful, but it’s a valid reflection of pride in African artistry. He’s reminding us that ‘classics’ aren’t defined only by Western sales numbers.”
Despite the online firestorm, Sir Shina Peters’s remarks highlight a broader narrative — African musicians asserting their global musical legacy. With streaming platforms reviving interest in 1980s and 1990s African sounds, his so-called “evergreens” are gaining new life among Gen Z listeners.
Whether or not his claim holds true, one thing remains certain: Sir Shina Peters’s Afro-Juju rhythm has stood the test of time — and continues to inspire new generations of Nigerian artists.
