Jamaican icon Buju Banton has become a topic of discussion online following his critical remarks regarding Afrobeats.
He expressed concerns that the genre lacks inspiration and does not contribute positively to the upliftment of individuals throughout Africa.
During his appearance on the show Drink Champs, which was broadcast on Saturday, August 10, he stated, alongside host N.O.R.E and DJ EFN, that he could not identify any Afrobeats track that truly elevates its audience.
“Tell me one Afrobeats song that can uplift us,” he said. “Kenya is suffering; young men in Kenya are revolting. South Africa, Sudan, South Sudan—everywhere is struggling. But which of these Afrobeats songs can relate to me for a peace of mind, to tell me that we are in the struggle, and even though it’s hard, we will overcome? Tell me.”
Buju also took shots at the Reggaeton genre saying by calling the artist in the genre culture vultures. “Listen, a lot of culture vultures out there, we have sat and we have watched Reggaeton f*ck with our music so hard and stolen out culture,” Buju said. He clarified that he is not hating but demanding respect and honour for the reggae and dancehall culture.
“I am not knocking anybody but you don’t give us no respect motherfuckers, and you still expect us to act like we take something from you? This is the King’s music. Your music will come and go because it has nothing to o with soul and building energy. Our music is time marker.”
Drink Champs host N.O.R.E was one of the hip hop artist who helped to usher reggaeton into mainstream with the Puerto Rican collaboration Oye Mi Canto featuring Daddy Yankee, Nina Sky, Gem Star, Big Mato.
Buju Banton is one of the most significant and well-regarded artists in Jamaican music. Banton has collaborated with many international artists, including those in the hip hop, Latin and punk rock genres, as well as the sons of Bob Marley.
Don’t miss out! Get your daily dose of Entertainment news and more straight to your phone. Join Ghana Street Journal Whatsapp channel now!
