Tems, the Grammy-winning Nigerian singer, responds to Buju Banton's criticism of Afrobeats. She defends the genre as a form of escapism for Nigerians, contrasting it with reggae's focus on societal issues. Tems emphasizes that Afrobeats serves to provide joy and relief from daily hardships.
Nigerian Grammy-winning artist Temilade Openiyi, known as Tems, has responded to Jamaican reggae icon Buju Banton's critique of Afrobeats. In a recent episode of the 'Shopping The Sneakers' podcast, Banton argued that Afrobeats lacks depth and would eventually lose its appeal. Tems countered this claim by emphasizing that Afrobeats is designed as an escape from the harsh realities of life in Nigeria, rather than a genre focused on addressing societal issues.
Tems acknowledged Banton's perspective but clarified that Afrobeats serves a different purpose compared to reggae. She explained that the genre provides a form of escapism for listeners, offering them a reprieve from their everyday struggles. According to Tems, this escapism is a fundamental aspect of Afrobeats, distinguishing it from other genres like reggae, which often address more critical social themes.
The discussion highlights a broader debate within the music industry about the roles and impacts of different musical genres. While Banton's critique suggests a need for deeper lyrical content, Tems argues that Afrobeats' primary role is to provide joy and escape, which is equally valuable in the context of its cultural impact. This exchange underscores the diverse ways in which music can influence and reflect the experiences of its listeners.
