Legendary Reggae artiste, Buju Banton, has shared his scepticism of the popular Afrobeats genre and its effects in Africa.

According to him, Afrobeats is uninspiring and fails to uplift Africans.

As reported by graphic.com.gh, Buju Banton, speaking during an appearance on Drink Champs with hosts N.O.R.E and DJ EFN on August 10, 2024, questioned the genre's ability to motivate listeners amidst the struggles faced by people in various African countries.

Buju Banton challenged listeners to name an Afrobeats song that offers hope and peace of mind, citing ongoing issues in some African countries.

“Tell me one Afrobeats song that can uplift us. 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,” he asked.

In response, some online commentators, including podcaster Jair Frai, suggested Burna Boy’s “Common Person” as an uplifting track.

Murray Elias, a producer, argued that Afrobeats artistes are better songwriters and performers than their Dancehall counterparts, attributing their success to a well-funded and well-run industry.

He also criticized the lack of unity among Dancehall artistes and the commercial struggles of recent signings.

“First, Dancehall and Unity are oxymorons. It will never happen. Secondly, even if it were to happen, the Afrobeats artistes are better songwriters, singers, and artistes than anything coming out of Jamaica. And by better, I mean more commercial on an international crossover level. Also, the Afrobeats music industry is well-funded and well-run, and the major labels see where it makes money.

“All the Dancehall signings have been flops or the jury is still out,” he said.

Buju Banton also expressed frustration with Reggaeton artistes, accusing them of cultural appropriation and demanding respect for Reggae and Dancehall music.

“Listen, a lot of culture vultures out there, we have sat and we have watched Reggaeton f*ck with our music so hard and stolen our culture,” Buju said.

He pointed out that he is not hating but demanding respect and honour for the Reggae and Dancehall culture.

“I am not knocking anybody but you don’t give us no respect motherf*ckers, and you still expect us to act like we take something from you? This is the King’s music. Your music will come and go because it has nothing to do with soul and building energy. Our music is a time marker,” he added.

ID/NOQ

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