UK-based Ghanaian artiste and Afrobeats pioneer, Fuse ODG, has replied reggae icon Buju Banton’s recent criticism of Afrobeats music.

In a recent interview, Buju Banton sparked debate by dismissing Afrobeats as “uninspiring” and incapable of empowering Africans, despite its global popularity. 

Fuse ODG has now responded to these claims, joining the conversation about the genre’s impact and value with the assertion that the music style is bringing Afro-Caribbeans to their roots.

 “Kenya is suffering; young men in Kenya are revolting. South Africa, Sudan, South Sudan—everywhere is struggling. But which of these Afrobeats songs can relate to me for a peace of mind, to tell me that we are in the struggle, and even though it’s hard, we will overcome? Tell me,” Buju Banton said in the interview. (Related article:  Afrobeats is uninspiring and doesn’t raise the hope of Africans, says Buju Banton)

However, Fuse ODG, disagrees with his position in a video shared on social media earlier today.

“I get where Buju is coming from because most afrobeat hits do not have the message in it but that is not to say there are no afrobeat artiste with positive messages in their music. Afrobeat is so spiritual and most often, we speak in our mother tongue to connect with Africans and people of African descent all across the globe.

“This music is now allowing Africans to fall back, fall in love with themselves, and be proud to be Africans. It is allowing African-Americans to want to come back home. It’s allowing Afro-Caribbeans to come home and connect to their roots,” he added.

Fuse ODG also pointed out that while Afrobeats may have its limitations, it has enabled Black people to reclaim their cultural heritage and connect with their roots. 

Moreover, the genre has become a significant economic driver for many African nations, generating substantial revenue and promoting cultural exchange. 

By doing so, Afrobeats is empowering African countries to harness their creative resources and celebrate their unique identity.

Fuse ODG reacts to Buju Banton’s opinion that afrobeat is uninspiring and doesn’t raise the hope of Africans pic.twitter.com/yo8M4xEOa1

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