"The Foundations of Afrobeats Were Laid in Port Harcourt" - Duncan Mighty

 

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Singer Duncan Mighty has asserted that he and other artists from Port Harcourt played a foundational role in shaping today’s Afrobeats scene, a claim that has sparked lively discussion across the Nigerian music industry. 

Speaking in a recent interview with Hip TV, the veteran musician emphasized that Port Harcourt artistes, including himself, Timaya, Burna Boy, and Omah Lay, contributed significantly to the sound and identity of modern Afrobeats.

According to Duncan Mighty, the unique rhythms, slang, and musical nuances from Port Harcourt have been widely incorporated into Afrobeats tracks across Nigeria and beyond. 

He specifically highlighted the Ikwerri slang and other local sounds that he believes are now embedded in virtually every Afrobeats song today. “In almost every Afrobeats song today you can hear the Port Harcourt influence, especially the Ikwerri slangs,” he explained.

 “You can’t hear any Afrobeats song today and not hear a spice of Port Harcourt. Almost every Afrobeats song today has the flavour of Port Harcourt sound.”

Duncan Mighty positioned himself and fellow Port Harcourt stars as pioneers who laid the groundwork for the genre, claiming, “I, Burna Boy, Timaya, Omah Lay and Port Harcourt sound built the foundation of today’s Afrobeats.”

 His comments underscore the cultural and musical influence of the Niger Delta city, often overshadowed in discussions dominated by Lagos-based artists and studios. For Duncan Mighty, Port Harcourt’s contribution to Afrobeats is not merely stylistic but foundational, shaping the rhythm, tone, and linguistic flavor of the genre.

However, the claims have elicited mixed reactions from fans and industry observers. Some have praised Duncan Mighty for highlighting the often-overlooked role of Port Harcourt artistes in Afrobeats’ evolution, noting that the city has produced several internationally recognized musicians who have influenced the global sound of the genre. 

Others, however, argue that he may be “overemphasizing” the city’s contribution, pointing out that Afrobeats is the product of collaboration and innovation across multiple Nigerian cities and cultures, with Lagos historically serving as the commercial hub for the music industry.

Despite the debate, Duncan Mighty’s remarks have reignited conversations about the origins and development of Afrobeats, drawing attention to the diverse influences that have shaped the genre.

 His statements remind audiences and upcoming artists of the cultural richness and musical creativity present in Port Harcourt. 

As Afrobeats continues to grow globally, the city’s contributions, championed by voices like Duncan Mighty, may gain more recognition and appreciation.

 

While some may contest his claims, Duncan Mighty’s perspective underscores the importance of acknowledging all regions that have influenced Afrobeats. 

From the distinctive slang to the rhythmic innovations, Port Harcourt’s imprint on the genre is undeniable, and the city’s artistes continue to inspire both their peers and the next generation of musicians.

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