Fuse ODG responds to Buju Banton’s criticism of afrobeats
Buju Banton sparked controversy in a recent interview by dismissing Afrobeats as “uninspiring” and questioning their ability to empower Africans, despite the genre’s global success
UK-based Ghanaian artist and Afrobeats pioneer, Fuse ODG, has responded to reggae legend Buju Banton’s recent criticism of Afrobeats music.
Buju Banton sparked controversy in a recent interview by dismissing Afrobeats as “uninspiring” and questioning their ability to empower Africans, despite the genre’s global success.
In his response, Fuse ODG defended Afrobeats, emphasising that the genre is reconnecting Afro-Caribbeans with their roots and playing a crucial role in uniting and empowering people of African descent worldwide.
“Kenya is suffering; young men in Kenya are revolting. South Africa, Sudan, South Sudan—everywhere is struggling. But which of these Afrobeats songs can relate to me for peace of mind, to tell me that we are in the struggle, and even though it’s hard, we will overcome? Tell me,” Buju Banton said in the interview.
However, Fuse ODG, disagrees with his position in a video shared on social media.
“I get where Buju is coming from because most afrobeat hits do not have a message in them, but that is not to say there are no afrobeat artists with positive messages in their music. Afrobeat is so spiritual and most often, we speak in our mother tongue to connect with Africans and people of African descent all across the globe.
“This music is now allowing Africans to fall back, fall in love with themselves and be proud to be Africans. It is allowing African-Americans to want to come back home. It’s allowing Afro-Caribbeans to come home and connect to their roots,” he added.
Fuse ODG also pointed out that while Afrobeats may have their limitations, it has enabled black people to reclaim their cultural heritage and connect with their roots.
Moreover, the genre has become a significant economic driver for many African nations, generating substantial revenue and promoting cultural exchange.
By doing so, Afrobeats is empowering African countries to harness their creative resources and celebrate their unique identity.
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