In a recent discussion on N.O.R.E, Jamaican Reggae and Dancehall singer Buju Banton shared his thoughts on the rise of Afrobeats, which he feels lacks significant impact.
For Buju Banton, Afrobeats is enjoying undeniable international success, but the music does not celebrate or reflect the struggles of Africans in the same way that older African artists do.
Banton cited Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti, Malian legend Salif Keita and Senegalese musician Youssou N’dour as examples of African artists whose music had a strong socio-political impact.
The Jamaican singer pointed out that while Afrobeats is growing globally, the songs fail to connect with the realities and struggles of their audience, unlike Reggae music which documents different aspects of life.
In the interview, Buju Banton also noted that while Afrobeats and Latin American pop music Raggeton are both inspired by Reggae and Dancehall, both movements fail to adequately honor their Caribbean influences.
He criticized Afrobeats for not being open to Jamaicans in its efforts to connect with the rest of the world, despite the good intentions and influences drawn from Dancehall and Reggae.
According to Banton, Afrobeats stars do not collaborate with their Jamaican counterparts, preferring to work with artists from other continents.
The Jamaican singer’s remark sparked a backlash on social media, with some observers deeming his criticism of the lack of conscious music in Afrobeats to be unfounded, as were his claims that Nigerians do not collaborate with Jamaicans.
Musical diversity is a richness that must be celebrated, and each musical genre has its place and impact in the world of music. It is essential to give each musical style the recognition and appreciation it deserves, because it is this diversity that enriches our musical experience.