The term “Afrobeats” has become synonymous with West African pop music, but its origins are shrouded in mystery. While there is no definitive history of when or by whom the term was coined, it is believed to have emerged in the 2000s to describe the vibrant music scene coming out of countries like Nigeria and Ghana.
The roots of Afrobeats can be traced back to Fela Kuti’s Afrobeat, a fusion of Jazz, Funk, and West African Highlife music in the 1970s. As Nigerian artists began incorporating elements of hip hop into their music in the 90s, genres like Afro-Hip Hop and Afropop emerged, paving the way for the modern sound of Afrobeats.
The term “Afrobeats” was popularized by Nigerian entertainment executive Obi Asika, who saw it as a way to elevate Nigerian pop music onto the global stage. Today, Afrobeats has its own charts in the UK and US and has inspired African award categories at prestigious events like the EMAs, Grammys, and AMAs.
But is Afrobeats just a genre of music, or is it something more? According to Nigerian superstar Davido, Afrobeats is not just a genre but a cultural movement that represents the modern sound of West Africa. It’s a collective term used to describe the music that embodies the spirit and energy of countries like Ghana and Nigeria.
To delve deeper into the evolution and history of Afrobeats, check out the following content:
– “Afrobeats: Culture or Genre” – Pulse Facts Only Episode by Motolani Alake
– “Afrobeats: The Back Story” by Ayo Shonaiya on Netflix
– “The Journey of the Beats” available on Showmax
These resources offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of sounds and stories that make up the vibrant world of Afrobeats. So sit back, relax, and let the music transport you to the heart of West Africa.
