Veteran Kenyan secular songstress Avril has revealed her views about ageism, and what her social media direct messages (DMs) are being flooded with by young men from Generation Z.
Speaking candidly with Dr Ofweneke on TV47 Kenya, the artist, whose real name is Judith Nyambura Mwangi, described the situation as crazy and addressed the reasons why she cannot respond to their advances.
Avril, known for her prolific career in the Kenyan music industry, has been a prominent figure for two decades, with hits like "Chokoza" and "Kitu Kimoja" cementing her status as a pop icon.
Digital Deluge: Gen Z in Her DMs
Avril, who stated she is now "clocking 40," shared that her DMs are incredibly active with messages from a much younger demographic.
"Oh my God, my DMs are a bit crazy. I don't know what is up with y'all's Generation Zs," she remarked.
When pressed about the nature of these communications, she simply reiterated, "They are sending me crazy DMs". The artist expressed surprise at the trend, noting, "I'm old enough to be one of their moms".
She highlighted that the lyrical content of her recent music, which touches upon such dynamics, is a "living testimony" to her current experiences.
A 'Princess' in Her Own Right: Avril's Stance on Romance
Despite the attention, Avril is firm about her romantic preferences and personal energy.
"Me, I'm a baby girl. I want to be treated by, you know, babe, I can't drive at night. Please come for me," she explained.
She emphasised her desire to remain in her "feminine energy" and be treated "like a princess," rather than fulfilling a role where she would need to be the caretaker.
ALSO READ: Musician Avril: Why I Don't Date Younger Men
Furthermore, Avril clarified her sexual orientation amidst queries, stating emphatically, "I'm very straight. I am extremely very straight," acknowledging she is a mother.
She described the growing trend of younger men pursuing older women, a topic often discussed on shows like Sky Girls, as "quite crazy".
Two Decades of Stardom and New Beginnings
Avril's journey in the entertainment industry began early; she joined at the age of 18, meaning she has now been in the public eye for two decades.
After years of success, she embarked on a new chapter, becoming the founder and CEO of a personal care products company.
This venture required her to go back to school to study entrepreneurship and even chemistry to formulate her products. She described this period as an exciting new journey, fulfilling a desire for more out of life after feeling she had achieved much in music.
A Call to End Agism in Entertainment
Avril also used the platform to advocate against ageism in the entertainment industry, particularly towards female artists.
"Let's stop being agists... And just appreciate people for doing what they love to do," she urged.
She questioned why musicians and actors, unlike other professionals, are often told they are "too old" for their craft, referencing global legends like Lionel Richie, who continue to tour in their 70s.
She expressed support for new artists, viewing them as crucial for the industry's sustainability and growth, and believes collaborations between generations should be celebrated.
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