Bisina Somto
In a recent series of Instagram posts, Nigerian artist, Wizkid, has taken a bold step to distance himself from the Afrobeats tag that has long been associated with Nigerian music on the global stage.
While Afrobeats has served as a pivotal genre in projecting Nigerian talents worldwide, Wizkid’s assertion that he transcends this label raises important discussions within the music industry.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelFollowing the announcement of his forthcoming album, Morayo, on March 15, 2024, Wizkid unequivocally expressed, “I am not a f*cking Afrobeats artiste! I’m not Afro anything!” Despite initial speculation of this declaration being a promotional tactic, Wizkid reiterated his stance, sparking debates about the implications of such a move on the future of Nigerian music.
READ ALSO: ‘I Am Not An Afrobeat Artiste’- Wizkid
Wizkid listed three compelling reasons behind his disavowal of the Afrobeats tag:
Diverse Musical Artistry
Wizkid adamantly asserts his versatility beyond the confines of Afrobeats. Emphasizing his capacity to produce “fine music” across various genres, he challenges the oversimplification of his artistic identity. Referring to his album “Made in Lagos” as a fusion of different sounds, Wizkid advocates for the recognition of his multidimensional artistry beyond genre labels.
Award Categorizations
Concerns about the impact of Afrobeat’s categorization on award nominations underline Wizkid’s second rationale. Expressing discontent with the tendency to lump diverse Nigerian artists into a single category, he highlights the limitations this imposes on recognition for artists exploring different musical avenues. Wizkid’s critique sheds light on the need for more nuanced award frameworks that reflect the breadth of Nigeria’s musical landscape.
Historical Significance
Delving into the origins of the Afrobeats tag, Wizkid challenges its legitimacy, contrasting it with Fela Kuti’s creation of Afrobeat. Disputing the appropriation of the term to categorize contemporary Nigerian music, he advocates for a deeper understanding of the diverse musical traditions that shape his work. By positioning himself as an artist first and foremost, Wizkid asserts the authenticity of his craft beyond restrictive labels.
Wizkid’s assertion parallels the sentiments of fellow Nigerian artists such as Burna Boy and FireboyDML, who have also sought to distance themselves from the Afrobeats categorization.
Somto is an Entertainment Reporter with a passion for uncovering the latest stories in the world of entertainment. As a dedicated journalist, Somto delivers in-depth reporting, exclusive interviews, and breaking news coverage.
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