Nigerian superstar Davido addressed Jamaican reggae legend Buju Banton’s recent critique of Afrobeats during an appearance on the CKO show. In a discussion about the genre’s depth and social relevance, Davido defended Afrobeats while acknowledging the influence of artists like Fela Kuti and Eedris Abdulkareem.
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The video, features Davido in a candid conversation with hosts on the CKO show, set against a backdrop with the CKO logo and a poster of Fela Kuti. Davido, dressed in a beanie and a graphic tee, responds to Buju Banton’s claim that Afrobeats lacks substance and political engagement.
Read also: Buju Banton Criticizes Afrobeat: “Music Is Never Disposable, The Artists Are”
He argues, “Africans just wanna dance mehn, I am sorry Mr. Buju Banton,” suggesting a preference for entertainment over political messaging in music. Davido cites Eedris Abdulkareem and Fela Kuti as examples of artists who have addressed social and political issues, but he emphasizes his own approach to music and activism.
He mentions his family’s political background, noting that his uncle is a governor and that he has been involved in initiatives like distributing 200 million Naira annually to motherless babies’ homes. The discussion also touches on the role of social media in voicing political opinions, with Davido stating, “If you wanna talk about government, you can be vocal about that and use your social media platforms.”
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Buju Banton’s criticism, highlights a broader debate about Afrobeats’ lyrical depth, with other artists like Burna Boy and Wizkid also weighing in. Eedris Abdulkareem’s history of political commentary, including his accusations against former President Buhari, adds layers to the discussion about music’s role in social activism. The CKO show’s platform provides a space for such dialogues, reflecting the ongoing evolution of African music and its global impact.
