By Thomas Peretu
The only afro beat music that I know is the authentic, undiluted interplay of wind instruments, riffs of guitar, riveting percussion accompanied by a staccato of irresistible voices. The maverick and iconic Abami Eda, Fela Anikulapo Kuti, was its fiery exponent. And pioneer.
Every other version is a parody or a poor corruption at best. And nothing more.
Today’s afro beats lack the verve, the punch and the message of the
real afro beat music.
However, I make bold to acknowledge my acute ignorance of Nigerian artistes and their music.
Seriously, I can not pretend to know beyond the public potrayal in the media of our music stars especially those making global impact, any more than the average Russian or Syrian.
I just can’t put a finger on the artistes and their music.
Even so, it would be foolhardy to gloss over the
achiements of these new generation of Nigerian artistes. They have indeed made us proud. The global audience have taken in to the Nigeria music even with its unbriddled infusion of tecno sound. Giving the Nigerian music an identity crisis. Safe for the vernacular that holds it out for its Nigerianess. Otherwise, it could be mistaken for South African pop music. Very little difference, if any.
It remains to be seen however, if government would care enough to provide the ambiance critical for the sustainance of this tidal wave in the decades ahead.
Bearing in mind that music is very dynamic. Artistes must keep pace with the rapidly changing times. Our music ambassadors must be deliberate in creating a niche for their brands. And also remember to be in your face at all times through frequent air plays.
… Peretu now a lawyer, was an entertainment reporter on Lagos Weekend. He wrote this from his Abuja base.
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