ID Cabasa Defends Afrobeats Against Buju Banton’s “Shallow” Criticism

Nigerian music producer ID Cabasa has responded to Jamaican reggae legend Buju Banton’s recent criticisms of Afrobeats.

Banton labeled the genre as “shallow and unsubstantial,” arguing that it overlooks the struggles faced by Africa despite its global popularity.

At a memorial lecture for the late cleric Denis Joseph Slattery in Lagos, Cabasa dismissed Banton’s remarks, stating that the reggae icon doesn’t fully grasp the essence of Afrobeats or its unique storytelling style.

He pointed out that Banton, who may not understand the intricacies of the language and cultural nuances, risks misinterpreting the genre.

Cabasa acknowledged that while Banton’s generation often conveyed complex messages through their music, contemporary Afrobeats artists communicate their truths in a more accessible manner.

He cited artists like Burna Boy, BNXN, Olamide, and Asake, arguing that their work certainly holds depth and meaning.

Ultimately, Cabasa emphasized that the misunderstanding stems from a lack of familiarity with the genre rather than an absence of substance, suggesting that criticism without understanding is unwarranted.