Yemi Alade Criticizes Fellow Artists for Underestimating the Afrobeats Genre

Nigerian singer Yemi Alade has criticized her fellow artists who diminish the significance of the Afrobeats genre. She expressed that while it’s acceptable for artists to distance themselves from Afrobeats if they believe it doesn’t align with their artistic vision, it’s hypocritical for them to undermine its importance, noting that it has played a crucial role in the development of every Nigerian artist.

Taking to her X platform, the ‘Johnny’ singer stated: “There’s nothing wrong with informing your audience about the genre of music you create, especially if you feel it doesn’t accurately represent your artistry. Simply declare your genre peacefully. Dismissing the influence of Afrobeats on the growth of every artist is hypocritical.”

Alade’s social media commentary arises in response to recent statements by some Nigerian singers, including Davido, Wizkid, and Burna Boy, who have distanced themselves from the Afrobeats label. They argue that being labeled under Afrobeats pigeonholes all African artists, regardless of their unique musical styles.