Nollywood and the Nigerian music industry are two of the biggest forces in African entertainment. Nollywood tells stories through movies, while the music industry creates sounds that move people. 

Both industries have put Nigeria on the global stage, attracting fans from all over the world. But does Nollywood need music to survive? The answer is simple—yes.

Music helps Nollywood connect with audiences

Music also helps people connect with movies on a deeper level. When a popular song plays in a film, it makes the scene more relatable. Viewers might already love the song, so hearing it in a movie makes the moment even more special.

This is why Hollywood invests in soundtracks. Movies like Black Panther and Fast and Furious made their soundtracks global hits. Nollywood can do the same by working with Nigerian musicians to create original soundtracks that leave a lasting impression.

Music brings movies to life

A film without music feels empty. Imagine a sad scene with no soft, emotional song playing in the background. Or an exciting action scene without fast-paced beats to build tension. Music adds depth to movies, making them more engaging and memorable.

In Nollywood, music is a key part of storytelling. Whether it’s Afrobeats, gospel, or traditional sounds, Nigerian movies often use songs to express emotions that words alone cannot. A great soundtrack can turn an ordinary scene into something unforgettable.

Nollywood helps promote Nigerian music

While Nollywood benefits from music, the relationship works both ways. Movies give songs a bigger platform. If a Nollywood film features a catchy song, people who watch the movie might go searching for it. This can introduce Nigerian music to new audiences, both locally and internationally.

Some Nigerian films have already helped boost certain songs. But this partnership could be even stronger if the music industry saw Nollywood as a serious way to promote their work.

Why Musicians should support Nollywood

Nollywood actors and filmmakers often use their platforms to promote Nigerian music, but the support is not always mutual. Many musicians don’t talk about Nollywood films or help promote them, even when their songs are used in those movies.

This is why some Nollywood stars have called out musicians, asking them to support the industry that also promotes them. If Nigerian artists actively helped push Nollywood films, more people would watch, and the industry would grow even bigger.

A Win-Win Partnership

For Nollywood and the music industry to grow, they need to support each other. From music licensing, marketing support, investment

The future of Nollywood and Nigerian music

Nollywood and the music industry are both powerful, but together, they can be even stronger. Music makes movies better, and movies help music reach more people. Instead of working separately, they should build a real partnership—one where both sides support each other equally.