You must be here because, let’s face it, who doesn’t like Afrobeats? Like, have you ever listened to African music!? As the creator of Jwompa, a music firm that connects various communities across the globe to the wonder of African music, I have a beef with anyone who disparages the movement.
A global black diaspora is growing, over 20 million Africans reside outside of Africa, and interest in African music among non-Africans is at an all-time high worldwide.
Without a doubt, afrobeats has had extraordinary global growth over the past four to five years, almost sweeping the globe. Nearly everyone is listening to it, dancing to it, or talking about it. Afrobeats performers often sell out major music festivals and concert halls in New York, Paris, and London. Knowing this, who are these individuals who aren’t discussing Afrobeats? Then why?
Let’s start by looking at some of the reasons why some Americans (and others) might need a little time to catch on to the Afrobeats craze. But I swear, we’ll wrap things off nicely.
Reasons they LOVE
- Rhythm is a key component of African music and is perhaps the most universal aspect of music, making it very simple to learn.
You probably already know that American music, for obvious historical reasons, has a significant African component. And if there is anything that comes close to being a global standard of exchange (particularly in the black world), it is music. Afrobeats is becoming that contemporary money.
- Our favourite African artists are working with British and American artists.
African musicians have recently worked with well-known international rap and pop stars including Chris Brown, Drake, Migos, Ed Sheeran, Major Lazor, and many others. More than ever, musicians want to provide their fans with fresh sounds. The new wave is international collaborations, and American audiences adore it!
- Everyone like new things, and afrobeats are the newest sound in the West. It’s new and brimming with fascinating cultural and historical revelations.
Everyone like new things, particularly new music. Additionally, Afrobeats is perhaps the newest kid on the block. The song itself has a wealth of knowledge from a social, cultural, and historical perspective. Have you read about the uprisings in Nigeria and South Africa? Globally, African music has had and will continue to have an impact. Both novice and seasoned listeners may gain a lot from listening to African music.
Bonus LOVE Reasons
- The Dance/Fitness sector is expanding to new heights because of Afrobeats.
The Azonto dance was the first, followed by the Skelewu, Shoki, Kupe, and Zanku, among many others. Do you follow @Chopdaily’s Instagram page? You really ought to. Afro-dance and fitness are bringing people from all walks of life together.
- Americans adore entertainment. Additionally, Afrobeats excels in entertaining audiences.
The United States is known for its love of fun. Do you recall when Dancehall initially became popular? How about the current influx of Latin pop music into the American music scene? Do you recall Despacito? Well, the new sheriff in town is Afrobeats. Because Americans enjoy parties and dancing, it’s ideal for those activities. Additionally, it’s ideal for playing on the radio and in the vehicle. The success of Latin pop music in North America will ultimately be doubled, according to our music experts’ predictions for Afrobeats. Must I say more?
Reasons they HATE
- Existing music streaming services generally let down new listeners who are trying to find more immersive listening experiences.
People who listen to music are always looking for a deeper connection with it. Unfortunately, one-size-fits-all streaming applications (like Spotify, Apple, Tidal, etc.) are unable to connect, engage with, and appeal to a variety of audiences by delivering culturally-specific material. Language may indeed be a barrier. However, individuals require more information than simply the lyrics. They are interested in the background of the music, the lives of the musicians, the nations from where they are originally from, and the music’s overall cultural significance.
- Some listeners are concerned that they won’t “do it right,” and that they won’t inappropriately use the culture that is so closely related to the music.
Everyone is aware that African music is more than simply music. It also includes jokes from the Jollof War, vibrant Kente and Ankara designs, and lingo. (And this point is especially for you if you are reading this and wondering what the Jollof War is.) Our customs, holidays, and communities are all intimately linked with music. So it seems to reason that for some, engaging in the culture may be a bit intimidating. But don’t worry! No matter where you’re from, you’re all welcome to the celebration. Just dancing, no criticism.
- The naming and classification of diverse African music genres is rife with ambiguity.
The “Afrobeat” genre, which Fela Kuti helped develop, is typically thought to consist of organic instrumental rhythms with political commentary and socially aware sentiments. Generally speaking, “Afrobeats” (with the s) is a fusion of Nigerian “Naija” beats, Ghanaian “hiplife,” and other African pop music, all of which have their roots in hip-hop and British grime. Not to mention the ambiguity surrounding terms like “Afropop,” “House vs. Kwaito,” “Afrotrap,” etc. The list is endless.
At Xclusivesongs, we see the classification of African music from a distinct angle. We wholeheartedly support the blending and development of African musical traditions. We think that in order to make music understandable to a worldwide audience, our terminology must change along with the music.
African music has the power to enlighten and unify the whole continent of Africa and the world’s black diaspora. Through music, we may increase African pride and the significance of Africa in the world. For musicians to profit financially from exposure and global reach beyond local markets, we must endeavor to increase the value of African music. Platforms must contextualize music in ways that appeal to a wide range of people, regardless of how familiar they may already be with our sounds. braveloaded wants to make this a reality.