In a recent interview on the Drink Champs podcast with N.O.R.E. and DJ EFN, Grammy-winning artist Buju Banton expressed disappointment over the lack of respect from Afrobeats artists. He claimed they borrow heavily from reggae and dancehall without giving proper credit, which deeply saddened him.
Buju Banton argued that Afrobeats owes much to Jamaican music, despite some claims that the genre is entirely separate from reggae. He pointed out that Afrobeats artists often do not acknowledge the influence of reggae and dancehall.
“Everyone wants to take from reggae, but you don’t give us any respect. Afrobeats didn’t come from Africa but from Jamaican influence,” Banton stated. He emphasized that Jamaican music is deeply connected to Africa, especially through the drum, which speaks to the soul.
Buju Banton also touched on the issue of culture vultures in reggae, referencing how reggaeton has taken from reggae without giving credit. He criticized Afrobeats artists for not acknowledging the Jamaican roots that helped shape their sound.
The dancehall artist also highlighted the importance of the drum in reggae, symbolizing the cultural connection between Jamaican music and African traditions. He expressed disappointment that Afrobeats artists didn’t try to connect with Jamaica and its roots, focusing instead on other influences.
Banton lamented the lack of socio-conscious music in today’s landscape, including Afrobeats. He emphasized that reggae has historically been a voice for the oppressed and urged Afrobeats artists to use their platform to inspire and uplift, much like reggae has done for decades.
He challenged Afrobeats artists to consider the impact of their work on future generations, questioning if they are only after money or if they want to leave a meaningful legacy. Buju Banton defended reggae’s lasting legacy, calling it “the king’s music” and urging Afrobeats artists to contribute to the liberation and empowerment of African people.
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