Nelson C.J.
Columnist
Nelson C.J (He/Him) is a Lagos-based Nigerian culture journalist who has written for The New York Times, TIME Magazine, Teen Vogue, Rollingstone, Pitchfork, Architectural Digest, Them, I-D, Dazed, W Mag, Vice and other places. His writing interacts with culture as it relates to music, film, sexuality and other socio-cultural concerns.
Music
Bloody Civilian Refuses to Be Numb
"I really just want something that can reflect how the times feel," says the Nigerian musician.
Music
In December, the Afrobeats Scene Comes Alive
Called "Detty December," culture and community abound through popular festivals.
Music
Is Afrobeats Music Entering Its Illuminati Era?
Or are we just not allowing its artists enough range?
Culture
Nollywood Thriller ‘Gangs of Lagos’ Humanizes Those Written Off as ‘Criminals’
“These are people with stories and their stories are still being written. It’s not the end.”
Music
Bnxn Wants Modern Afrobeats to Be More Than Just Vibes
“I was playing songs from back then when people were trying to really prove a point, and God damn!” he says.
Music
Victony Experienced Tragedy. Now, the Afrobeats Outlaw Wants to Be Happy
“When you don’t feel happy for such a long time, it becomes important to you,” he says.
Music
Davido’s Language of Grief
The Nigerian musician’s newest album comes after unbearable loss. What does it mean for an artist who is defined by joy?
Music
The Afrobeats Industry Needs To Confront Its Bias Against Female Artists
“There could be so many talented undiscovered women artists who could propel the industry in the ways Tems has."
Movies
Why Old Nollywood Humor Is Always a Hit on TikTok
On TikTok, young people are drawn to 2000s Nollywood in a way that points to the distinctiveness and importance of Nigerian humor.
Movies
British Nigerian Actress Deborah Ayorinde Deserves Her Flowers
The Afrobeats Edit columnist Nelson C.J sits down with Ayorinde to talk authentic representation and self-care.
TV
“Blood Sisters” Is the Nigerian Thriller You’re Sleeping On
It’s one of the best shows of 2022, pointing to the future of Nollywood.
Music
The Alté Movement Is a Symbol of Rebellion for Young Nigerians
It's way more than a music genre.
Music
90's Rave Music Is Making a Comeback
Artists and experts speak on the resurgence of the 90s electronic dance scene.
Sexual Health + Identity
Queer Ghanaians Just Want Safety After LGBTQ Space Was Raided
“As a queer person right now, I live in constant fear."
Culture
The Young Nigerians Documenting A Revolution
Photographers have been documenting the protests in Nigeria for deeply personal reasons.