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Veteran Fuji icon Abass Akande, widely known as Obesere, has restated his belief that Fuji music will always maintain its place in Nigeria’s music landscape—regardless of the explosive rise of hip-hop and Afrobeats.
Speaking in an interview with Sunday Scoop, the celebrated performer, whose career spans over three decades, reflected on his journey, the resilience he has built over time, and why he believes Fuji’s cultural foundation makes it impossible for the genre to fade away.
Obesere explained that his long-standing career has taught him to remain steadfast despite challenges. According to him, the obstacles he faced when trying to carve out a unique identity strengthened his resolve.
“Over the last 30 years, the biggest lesson I have learnt is to keep going despite the challenges. I faced various struggles carving a niche for myself. I was even tagged an Asakasa singer. It was tough to let people know that it was just slang and I was just being original,” he recalled.
The Fuji star also spoke about his ability to stay relevant in an ever-changing industry, noting that adaptability and confidence have kept him connected to newer audiences. Obesere explained that growth in music requires constant reinvention and self-belief.
“Being able to connect means that you have to be on top of your game. I evolved with the trend. Permit me to say it’s ‘Street OT’. I didn’t look down on myself as if I’m too old. If you see yourself as an old singer, you will be overtaken. But that is not to say that you shouldn’t allow the younger ones to progress. As they move, you maintain your lane discipline and continue to earn your respect,” he said.
Obesere further addressed the increasing trend of younger afrobeats and hip-hop stars integrating Fuji elements into their music. Artistes like Asake and Burna Boy have openly embraced Fuji influences, and the veteran believes this evolution is healthy for the genre’s preservation.
“It’s a great thing that our younger and raving talents are showcasing the essence of Fuji and taking some recipes to continue to dish out good music. It has always been like that, but it’s louder now,” he noted.
He revealed that he had often been asked whether the influence of hip-hop could overshadow Fuji. His response, then and now, has remained consistent.
“In many interviews I had granted in the past, I was asked if hip-hop would not stampede Fuji music, and my response has always been that hip-hop will never override Fuji. The latter is a borrowed culture, but Fuji is our own, and it’s traditional,” he said.
Obesere also took a moment to applaud Adekunle Gold for his latest album titled Fuji, describing the project as a meaningful tribute that keeps the spirit of the genre alive. For him, every effort by contemporary musicians to reconnect with Fuji demonstrates the genre’s cultural depth and longstanding relevance.
As Nigeria’s music industry continues to expand globally, Obesere remains confident that Fuji will always stand firm—not just because of its rhythm, but because it is deeply woven into the history and daily life of the people. Through his legacy and the influence of today’s stars, he believes Fuji will continue to evolve, inspire, and thrive.
#Afrobeats
#Fuji
#Obesere
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