BOMBSHELL: Buju Banton Accuses Afrobeats Artists of Stealing from Reggae and Dancehall, Predicts Genre's Decline [Video]

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Jamaican dancehall legend Buju Banton has sparked controversy by accusing Afrobeats artists of borrowing heavily from Jamaican reggae and dancehall music without giving proper credit to their origins.

During an appearance on the Drink Champs podcast, co-hosted by N.O.R.E and DJ EFN, Banton criticized the substance of Afrobeats music, predicting that it will fade over time.

Banton expressed his frustration with what he described as "culture vultures" who have focused on reggae and dancehall, adopting elements of the genres without acknowledging their roots.

"I’m not knocking nobody but they don’t give us no respect. And you still expect us to act like we take something from you? This [reggae] is the King’s music. Your music [Afrobeats] shall come and go because it has nothing to do with soul, building energy," he said, emphasizing the timelessness of reggae music.

He also voiced disappointment in Afrobeats artists for not using their platform to advocate for the liberation of the African continent. Instead, he accused them of prioritizing personal enrichment over meaningful social change.

"When you look at what they’re doing, their music is not freeing Africa. It’s fuckery. They are supposed to use their music to preach freedom but what they’re singing is fuckery," Banton said, urging Afrobeats artists to make a more significant impact with their music.

Banton's remarks highlight a growing tension between the Caribbean and African music scenes, as both genres gain global prominence. His critique challenges Afrobeats artists to reflect on their legacy and the cultural significance of their work, while also defending the enduring power of reggae as a "King's music."

Watch the full interview below:



Source: DP

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