Veteran music producer ID Cabasa has come to the defense of Afrobeats, responding to Jamaican reggae legend Buju Banton's recent criticism of the genre. Banton had previously labeled Afrobeats as a “shallow and unsubstantial music genre,” arguing that it fails to address the struggles faced in Africa, despite its global popularity.
Speaking to reporters during a memorial lecture for the late cleric Denis Joseph Slattery in Lagos, Cabasa emphasized that Banton does not fully grasp the nuances of Afrobeats. He pointed out that the Jamaican artist cannot truly understand the language and storytelling style used in the genre.
“Buju Banton does not understand the genre. Can he speak our language? No,” Cabasa stated. He explained that the sarcastic and layered storytelling common in Nigerian music might not resonate with those unfamiliar with it.
He went on to highlight the depth and substance found in the works of contemporary Afrobeats artists like Burna Boy, BNXN (also known as Buju), Olamide, and Asake. “Are you going to tell me that there’s no substance in what Asake is doing?” Cabasa questioned.
Cabasa concluded by suggesting that just because someone does not understand a genre does not mean they should criticize it. He believes Banton’s comments stem from a misunderstanding of the genre’s appeal and artistry.
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