Responding to these sharp criticisms, US-based Ugandan rapper GNL Zamba, a stalwart of the Afrobeats genre, defended the musical style with a well-articulated argument on social media.
Zamba, an admirer of Buju Banton since ‘Til Shiloh, expressed his disappointment not only as a fan but also as a fellow artist.
“I love me some Buju Banton… Despite his deep impact on my music taste like any other human he is a man of complexity but contradictions and imperfections,” Zamba wrote.
Lyrical content and thematic depth
Zamba countered Banton’s assertions by pointing out that Afrobeats, like all musical genres, contains a spectrum of lyrical content and thematic depth. He specifically referenced songs such as “Monsters You Made” by Burna Boy and “Aboobi” by Pato Ranking, which delve into significant social commentary and reflect on the state of the black experience in Nigeria. Zamba criticised Banton’s broad brush approach which, he argues, overlooks these nuanced narratives within the genre.
Furthering his defense, Zamba addressed Banton’s claim about Afrobeats’ failure to liberate and unify Africa, stating, “I believe Buju’s heart is pure towards Africa but in the same breath he can’t turn around and downplay the social impact of Afrobeats uplifting talents and teams across the continent just because our Jamaican Afri Carines are jealous of our recent global success.”
Zamba urged Banton to follow in the footsteps of artists like Damian Marley who have collaborated positively with Afrobeats artists to promote cultural exchange and unity.
Zamba’s response did not just challenge Banton’s views but also invited a broader discussion about the responsibilities of artists in shaping public discourse and inspiring social change. He emphasised the importance of music as a tool for unity rather than division, echoing the sentiments of legendary musicians like Bob Marley who believed in music’s power to unite people across cultural and geographical divides.
“From Bo Diddley to Buju, freedom is our only hope. It’s still all love more blessings, still a fan,” Zamba concluded.