Grammy-winning Nigerian artist Temilade Openiyi, known professionally as Tems, has defended Afrobeats against criticism from Jamaican reggae legend Buju Banton. Tems describes the genre as a form of escapism rather than a platform for activism, addressing Banton’s recent dismissal of Afrobeats as lacking substance.
In a recent episode of the ‘Shopping The Sneakers’ podcast, Buju Banton expressed skepticism about Afrobeats, suggesting that the genre does not possess the depth required for long-term impact and would eventually decline.
Tems responded to Banton’s comments by acknowledging his viewpoint while clarifying the unique role of Afrobeats.
“I understand where Buju Banton is coming from. Reggae is not Afrobeats, and Afrobeats in Nigeria is specifically for escapism; that’s the purpose of Afrobeats,” Tems said.
The ‘Love Me Jeje‘ singer elaborated that Afrobeats is designed to offer a reprieve from the everyday struggles faced by many Nigerians, providing a temporary escape rather than focusing on direct social commentary or activism.
“Afrobeats serves as a way for people to find joy and distraction from the harsh realities of life,” Tems explained. “It’s about giving people a break, a chance to dance and celebrate, not necessarily to address societal issues.”
Tems’ defense highlights a growing debate about the role and impact of contemporary music genres, with Afrobeats emerging as a significant force on the global stage. While Banton’s critique raises questions about the genre’s long-term viability, Tems’ perspective underscores Afrobeats’ role in offering emotional relief and enjoyment to its listeners.
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