Jamaican dancehall sensation Spice has openly disagreed with reggae legend Buju Banton’s recent controversial remarks about Afrobeats music. Banton, in an episode of the ‘Drink Champs’ podcast, criticized Afrobeats artists for allegedly prioritizing personal enrichment over addressing societal issues in their music. He further claimed that Afrobeats lacks substance and would eventually fade away, accusing its artists of borrowing heavily from Jamaican reggae and dancehall without giving due credit.
Spice, known as the ‘Queen of Dancehall,’ expressed her dissent during an Instagram Live interview with Nigerian media personality Daddy Freeze. She firmly stated that Afrobeats is not “f*ckery,” emphasizing her admiration for the genre and its artists.
“I don’t think Afrobeats is f*ckery. It’s absurd to say that,” Spice remarked. “I am a fan of Afrobeats. I think he [Buju Banton] was speaking from a point that Afrobeats don’t do cultural songs, and I don’t know that to be true.”
Spice pointed out that several Afrobeats artists create music with significant cultural and political themes. She mentioned Burna Boy, noting his songs about the EndSARS movement and ‘Monsters You Made,’ both of which address social issues. She also highlighted other artists like 2Face and Falz, who produce politically charged music in Nigeria.
“The problem with Buju Banton is that he doesn’t understand that artists are different,” Spice continued. “So, I think it’s harsh to say a genre is f*ckery, especially one that’s doing very well. We can’t deny it. I’m the queen of dancehall, but Afrobeats is ruling the world now.”
Spice’s response underscores the diversity within Afrobeats and challenges the notion that the genre lacks depth or substance. Her defense highlights the global influence of Afrobeats and its artists, who continue to make significant cultural and political contributions through their music.
Source: https://dailypost.ng/
