Afrobeat: A big selling point for Nigeria
Afrobeat “gbedu wey dey burst brain” as they say. Afrobeat is a music genre that originated in Nigeria in the late 1960s.
The history of Afrobeat is a fascinating one, indeed a journey through the fusion of various musical elements, such as traditional African rhythms with jazz, funk, and other contemporary influences, as well as social activism, and cultural expression.
Afrobeat is characterized by the use of lengthy instrumental solos, horn components, repeated grooves, and complicated polyrhythms.
The musical genre has transcended its Nigerian origins to become a globally celebrated and influential musical genre. Its fusion of styles and its ability to address universal themes through music have contributed to its widespread appeal.
Nigeria has produced several legendary figures in Afrobeat music, making the genre grow in popularity and influence globally in recent years. It has expanded beyond its Nigerian roots to become a dynamic and influential genre in many parts of the world.
Here are some of the most prominent Afrobeat Legends
Legendary Fela Kuti:
Of course, Afrobeat cannot be mentioned without recourse to Fela Anikulapo Kuti, who is widely regarded as its pioneer and king.
The Afrobeat King was not only a musician but also a political activist who used his distinctive musical style to criticize the Nigerian government and address issues of corruption and human rights abuses. Songs like “Zombie”, “Water No Get Enemy” and “Coffin for Head of State”, remain iconic Afrobeat tracks.
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Fela Kuti, in the late 1960s, created Africa ’70, later Egypt ’80, a band that incorporated Yoruba, jazz, highlife, and funk elements into their unique fusion of rhythms. .Photo: Dark Minds -
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The Father of Afrobeat died in 1997.Photo:X(formerly Twitter)
Tony Allen:
He was the drummer and musical collaborator of Fela Kuti often referred to as the “Father of Afrobeat Drumming,”. He played a crucial role in developing the Afrobeat sound and the Nigerian music scene with his innovative drumming techniques.
Allen first met Fela in 1964, and they went on to record dozens of albums in Africa ’70, including Gentleman and Zombie, but he left the band in 1979 due to royalties issues,there after emigrated to London in 1984, and later moved to Paris.
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He collaborated with various artists, including Damon Albarn, Paul Simenon, and Simon Tong. in The Good, the Bad & the Queen. Photo :CBC -
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He was described as the Greatest Drummer that ever live and he passed on in 2020.Photo: Blogpost
Lagbaja:
Bisade Ologunde, popularly known by the stage name, Lagbaja, is a notable afrobeat musician and singer-songwriter whose music usually centered on social issues. He formed his first band in 1991 and released his first album “Lagbaja”, in 1993.His name reflects on his signature of facelessness, unique style of dressing which symbolizes the voiceless or “common man” in the society. His Songs “Knoko Below”,”Lagbaja nothing for you”,and “200 million mumu” were tremendously popular.
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His 2000 album, ‘We Before Me,’ promoted unity and.brotherhood and called for politicians, to be honest to the masses.Photo:Explain.com -
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Labgaja performing with Simi five years ago in Abuja, Nigeria. Photo: Lagostimes.
Sunny Ade:
King Sunny Ade, known as the king of juju music, formed his band “African beats”, launching his own record label in 1974. The label has released more than 100 of his recordings in Nigeria and gained attention across the western world.
King Sunny Ade has remained a powerful force in Nigeria, currently serving as chairperson of the Musical Copyright Society of Nigeria. His songs, such as “juju music” and “live at Montreux”, still earn him a fortune.
He established the King Sunny Ade Foundation in the mid-90s, which houses a performing arts center, recording studio and housing for young musicians on a Lagos state government-donated five-acre parcel of land.
The 77-year-old music icon has collaborated with the likes of Wizkid, Asa, Onyeka Onwaelu, Tuface and Dbanj, and does not intend to retire just yet.
Fela Kuti’s Sons:
Femi Kuti and Seun Kuti, the eldest and youngest sons of Fela Kuti, have both carried on their father’s Afrobeat legacy. Femi is a highly respected musician in his own right and has released albums like “Shoki Shoki” and “No Place for My Dream”. Seun, on the other hand, leads his “Egypt 80” band and has released albums like “From Africa with Fury: Rise” and “Black Times”.
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Left: Femi Kuti. Right: Seun Kuti
Orlando Julius:
Orlando Julius Aremu Olusanya Ekemode, known professionally as Orlando Julius, was a veteran musician known for blending Afrobeat with highlife and jazz. His recordings in the 1960s and 1970s, such as “Super Afro Soul” and “Orlando’s Afro Ideas”, are considered classics in the genre. He relocated to the United States where he hooked up with South African jazz star, Hugh Masekela to form the Ashiko band.
Julius and his band, known for their African drum-playing, opened for renowned musicians like Herbie Hancock and Grover Washington Jr., taught one of Michael Jackson’s older brothers to play African drums. Julius became a global musician, showcasing his deep understanding of African music.
The Nigerian music scene is constantly evolving, as new artists continue to emerge and make their mark. More recently, the likes of Burna Boy, Wizkid, Davido, Tiwa Savage, Rema and many others have emerged as notable Afrobeat stars receiving global awards and collaborating with artists from around the globe.
Impact of legends in Nigeria’s music industry
These Afrobeat legends have made significant contributions to the development and popularization of not just Afrobeat music but also Nigerian society as a whole.
Afrobeat legends, particularly Fela Kuti and Tony Allen, have introduced the world to the rich and distinctive sound of Afrobeat. Their music has influenced musicians and artists worldwide, leading to the integration of Afrobeat elements into various genres and popularizing African music globally which now young artist benefit from.
Afrobeat is a significant selling point for Nigeria, promoting its cultural identity, global recognition, tourism, economic impact, diplomacy, cross-cultural influence, and promotion of positive messages.
It reflects Nigerian and African culture, incorporating traditional rhythms and instruments, and has gained global recognition through iconic artists .
The traditional music genre has also attracted music enthusiasts, researchers, and tourists, boosting tourism and cultural exchange, generating income through music sales, concerts, events, and endorsements. It serves as a form of cultural diplomacy and soft power, fostering goodwill and positive perceptions of Nigeria on the international stage.
Afrobeat has also provided a platform for youth empowerment – allowing young Nigerian artists to express themselves and achieve international recognition. It has also served as an educational tool, bridging generational gaps and advocating for human rights.
Nigerian Afrobeat legends have not only made a lasting impact on the music industry, but have also contributed positively to change in Nigerian society. Their music continues to serve as a source of inspiration, empowerment, and social commentary, making them cultural icons and champions for change in Nigeria and the world.
Writing by Juliet Onwurah; Editing by Julian Osamoto and Tony Okerafor
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