Ghanaian-British Afrobeat artist Fuse ODG has strongly disagreed with Buju Banton’s recent criticism of Afrobeat.
Buju Banton had expressed dissatisfaction with how Afrobeat has evolved, claiming it has strayed from its original intent to inspire positive change and address social issues, unlike the impactful music of Fela Kuti.
In response, Fuse ODG addressed these concerns in a video posted on X.
He admitted that not all contemporary Afrobeat tracks carry a strong message, but emphasized that many artists still create music with meaningful content.
He highlighted that Afrobeat remains a powerful, spiritually resonant genre that connects with African and African-descendant communities worldwide.
“I get where Buju is coming from because most afrobeat hits do not have the message in it, but that is not to say there are no afrobeat artiste 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.”
Fuse ODG underscored that Afrobeat plays a significant role in helping Africans and those of African descent embrace their identity and reconnect with their roots.
“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 pointed out that the genre has also been instrumental in encouraging African-Americans and Afro-Caribbeans to explore their heritage, contributing positively to the cultural and economic landscape of African nations.
Watch below video:
Afrobeat hasn't lost substance – Fuse ODG disagrees with Buju Banton's assessment
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