In the pulsating heart of Nigeria's music scene, Afrobeat stands as a strong reflection of the country's raw and unapologetic essence. Originating in the 1960s and 1970s, this genre began as a powerful medium for addressing social issues, vices, and the pervasive specter of poor governance. Yet, as the years have unfolded, a notable shift has emerged within its lyrical landscape, veering towards themes of sexuality, casual relationships, and the allure of drugs. To delve deeper into this evolution, I spoke with a cadre of emerging Nigerian artists who are shaping the future of Afrobeat, exploring their inspirations and the lyrical narratives that define their work.
The Afrobeat Narratives
Q: What role does Pidgin play in Afrobeat?
A: There’s no way you can sing without Pidgin; it’s the spice in the beat. While it’s okay to write your lyrics in solid English, blending it into Pidgin adds that Afro essence. You need the accent, the tone, the pronunciation—that’s what makes it authentic.
Q: Can you sing everything in Pidgin?
A:You can start in English and still make a good Afrobeat song. It might become a mix of genres, like Afro-R&B. Tems is killing that niche with her English lyrics, while Ayra Starr reigns supreme in the Pidgin realm.
Q: What’s your struggle as an upcoming artist?A: That’s a polite way to refer to being upcoming. I think my biggest challenge is finding inspiration that resonates deeply. I feel like just loving music isn't enough; my lyrics often scratch the surface. People crave relatability, and that’s something I’m still navigating. Sure, getting signed by a big label is a dream for many, but right now, I’m focused on refining my art. It’s still a work in progress, and I believe that getting signed too soon could be like being in the right place at the wrong time.
The Emotional Landscape of Afrobeat
Q: Why is Afrobeat often described as loud and rarely sad?
A:Afrobeat is loud and rarely sad; it often serves as a vehicle to push away feelings we don’t want to confront. Personally, when I catch any type of feeling, I turn to Afrobeat. It’s our reality, and the eroticism in our lyrics has been around for ages. Remember how songs used to symbolize taking your virginity? Nigerian guys get the heat in this stew. When you listen to Afrobeat, it’s more about the vibe than emotion; it’s about feeling and reality.
Cultural Nuances in Afrobeat
Q: What challenges do foreign artists face when trying to write Afrobeat?
A: I’ve met foreign friends who tried to write to the beat, and they often ask, “How?” It’s complicated. It works best within our environment and reality. For instance, relationships have become a business for our women; you can’t just write about that without understanding the cultural nuances. You need Igbo and shayo to tell that story.
Q: How important is money in your lyrics?
A: Many of us are broke; we sing for the money. Fame just follows when people start appreciating our work. Money is crucial for us, especially when it comes to attracting women. Some say Nigerian artists project simping behavior through their lyrics. That’s partially true, but much of it is just cruise. Still, there’s a reality to it; you need money to get the girls.
The Reality of Sexual Themes
Q: Why does it seem like sex is a recurring theme in your music?
A: Why is it always about sex? Don’t you like sex? It’s our reality, and we write what we know.
Q: Is it inappropriate for young artists to sing about these themes?
A: Trust me, many of us are products of our environment. A 17-year-old might be just that in age, but experience-wise, he’s already 25. His psychological maturity allows him to express his reality.
The Celebration of Blackness
Q: How does Afrobeat celebrate blackness?
A: Afrobeat paints a picture of dark, confident, and audacious. When you hear the beat, you first think of yourself. It’s a representation of our culture that goes deeper than just music; it’s about embracing our identity. It reflects the beauty in our shades—whether it’s dark, brown, or anything in between. There’s a whole lot that people don’t know about this celebration of blackness in our sound. It’s not just about the rhythm; it’s about the strength and power that comes from embracing who we are. When you listen to our songs, you feel that audacity—it’s a declaration of self-love and acceptance.
Q: Why is this representation important in Afrobeat?
A: Representation matters because it shapes how we see ourselves and how others see us. Afrobeat gives voice to the narratives of blackness. The confidence in our music echoes the strength in our culture, reminding everyone that we are bold, beautiful, and unashamedly ourselves.
Q: How do you think this impacts the younger generation?
A: It’s huge! When young girls hear songs that celebrate blackness and confidence, it inspires them to embrace their own identity. They see that they can be loud, proud, and unapologetic about who they are. It’s a powerful message that encourages them to pursue their dreams, regardless of the obstacles they might face.