Music journalist Joey Akan criticizes the MTV VMAs for nominating Usher in the 'Best Afrobeats' category, citing concerns over cultural displacement. Reactions are mixed, with some defending cross-cultural collaborations while others emphasize the need to preserve Nigerian influence in Afrobeats.
Music journalist Joey Akan has expressed strong disapproval over the MTV VMAs nominating Usher in the 'Best Afrobeats' category for 2024. According to Akan, this nomination represents a crucial point in the erosion of Nigerian influence in Afrobeats, driven by the lack of gatekeeping and the selling out of local talents to major music corporations. He argues that this trend, fueled by financial incentives and opportunities offered by foreign entities, has led to a significant cultural displacement, with Nigerian artists increasingly collaborating with foreign producers who lack authentic connections to Nigeria.
Akan highlighted that this cultural shift has resulted in a scenario where Nigerian artists are gauged by their success in foreign markets rather than their impact at home. He predicts a future where American artists dominate Afrobeats, pushing Nigerian artists aside, much like what happened with Jamaican music genres like reggae and calypso.
