Jamaican dancehall icon Buju Banton has recently voiced his displeasure with Afrobeats artists, accusing them of borrowing heavily from Jamaican reggae and dancehall without giving due credit. During an appearance on the “Drink Champs” podcast, hosted by N.O.R.E and DJ EFN, Banton expressed his concerns about the current state of Afrobeats.
Banton argued that Afrobeats lacks the deep substance and soul that reggae and dancehall music embody. He predicted that Afrobeats would eventually lose its relevance because, in his view, it does not build lasting energy or impact. He also criticized Afrobeats artists for focusing on personal wealth rather than using their platform to advocate for the liberation and empowerment of the African continent.
Banton said:
“A lot of culture vultures out there. They’ve focused on our music so hard and stolen our culture. I’m not knocking nobody but they don’t give us no respect. And you still expect us to act like we take something from you? This [reggae] is the King’s music. Your music [Afrobeats] shall come and go because it has nothing to do with soul, building energy. Our music is a time marker. You can remember when you went on your first date, when you got married, when you are happy, and when you are sad. Because it’s the King’s music.”
Banton also reflected on his trip to Africa in 1991, where he spent weeks educating people about reggae and dancehall. He expressed disappointment that, despite the connection music could foster, Afrobeats artists have not made significant efforts to connect with Jamaica, the genre’s root.
He further criticized the content of Afrobeats music:
“When you look at what they’re doing their music is not freeing Africa. It’s fuckery. They are supposed to use their music to preach freedom but what they’re singing is fuckery. We desire more from them. If you want the money, go get it. But what’s going to be said about you later on and your posterity? You didn’t make any impact. So reggae music still stands predominant. It’s still the King’s music.”
Buju Banton’s remarks have sparked discussions on cultural appropriation, the purpose of music, and the responsibilities of artists in shaping and reflecting societal values.
