The Role of Afrobeats in Nigerian Socio-Politics

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Nigeria, one of Africa's most populous nations, possesses the potential for a high standard of living, primarily due to its important oil revenues. This potential was further underscored when Nigeria emerged as Africa's largest economy in 2014, buoyed by the global success of Afrobeats and the broader creative economy. Despite these promising developments, the expected widespread prosperity remains elusive. The country's substantial wealth has inadvertently perpetuated corruption, violence, and a succession of military dictatorships, complicating Nigeria's political landscape. Although the country returned to democratic governance in 1999 after 16 years of military rule, the intricate interplay of religious and tribal dynamics baffles international observers and hinders political stability.

Amidst a backdrop of limited press freedom, Nigerians have sought ways to express the challenges of their daily lives. Music, particularly Afrobeats, has emerged as a significant outlet. This genre is a vibrant mix of traditional Nigerian music infused with “jazz, highlife, and funk”, among other influences, and reflects Nigeria's diverse cultural heritage. Afrobeats not only showcases the country's rich musical tradition but also mirrors its history of cultural diversity and adaptation. Over the years, it has evolved to reflect the nation's complex socio-political dynamics. More than just entertainment, Afrobeats has become a source of soft power, influencing socio-political narratives and serving as a vehicle for activism, social commentary, and even political movements.

In the tumultuous decades of the 70s and 80s, Nigeria's political landscape was significantly shaped by the aftereffects of the Biafran War (1967-70) and an economic shift triggered by the oil boom. This period marked a decline in agriculture, once a cornerstone of Nigeria's economy and led to widespread discontent. The situation was exacerbated by a series of coups that embedded existing challenges like poverty, corruption, unemployment, and crime into the societal fabric. Afrobeats emerged not merely as a musical genre but as a powerful form of social expression. Its roots in activism can be traced back to founding figures such as Fela Kuti, celebrated as the "Godfather of Afrobeats." Kuti used his music as a tool for social action and boldly addressed critical issues such as fraud, poverty, and government oppression. His compelling lyrics and dynamic stage presence gave him the standing of a beacon of resistance, challenging the status quo.

Today, Afrobeats remains a tool that gives  a voice to the marginalized and articulates the struggles and hopes of the Nigerian population. Contemporary artists within the genre use their music to shine a light on pressing social concerns, inequality, and poor governance that stifles progress, as well as police brutality, thus resonating with the experiences of many Nigerians. The genre serves as a mirror of what is going on in Nigerian society by highlighting issues that are often sidelined by mainstream media and politicians. Burna Boy stands out as an example of an artist who has leveraged his platform to advocate for societal change and narrate their perspective. His music, characterized by emotive lyrics and dynamic rhythms, tackles subjects like police brutality and political corruption, emphasizing the significance of African unity and self-reliance. His international acclaim has not only brought these issues to the global stage, but has also inspired a new wave of artists committed to use their art for social advocacy.

Moreover, Afrobeats' global ascendancy has had an impact on Nigeria's socio-political environment by bolstering national pride and fostering a more assertive stance on both the national and international fronts. This renewed sense of confidence has started to inspire robust political narratives and policies that align with the aspirations and cultural pride of the Nigerian people. Therefore, Afrobeats has played a pivotal role in political activism, particularly in mobilizing youth and advocating for political reform. For instance, during #EndSARS in October 2020, songs such as Davido’s “FEM” Ajebo Hustlers’ “Barawo,” Stereoman’s “E Dey Pain Me,” and African China’s “M.President” soundtracked many protest grounds and fuelled the protestors’ desire to demand better governance from their leaders. The upbeat tracks became anthems of resistance and were echoed in the streets and on social media, uniting young people in a common cause.

Over time, the lines between music and politics in Nigeria have increasingly become blurred and created a symbiotic relationship where music often serves political ends. Nigerian politicians feature local artists in their campaign rallies and use their popularity and music to connect with voters. These artists, in turn, create anthems that highlight the politicians' achievements or visions, helping to amplify their electoral appeal. For instance, in 2015 leading Nigerian musicians collaborated on "Gbagbe," a song endorsing Akinwunmi Ambode's candidacy for Lagos State Governor. Similarly, artists like Olamide, Oritse Femi, and Eedris Abdulkareem have used their music to support political figures, intertwining their art with the political narrative.

Nevertheless, as Afrobeats evolves, it faces challenges, particularly around its commercialization and the impact on its messaging. The global popularity of the genre risks diluting its rich tradition of social and political commentary, as the pursuit of a broader appeal may overshadow more substantive messages. Additionally, criticisms have been directed at Afrobeats for its portrayal of gender, wealth, and societal values, with concerns that its mainstream representation often depicts an unattainable lifestyle, thereby deviating from its more critical social narratives. However, the international success of Afrobeats opens new avenues for cultural diplomacy by enabling Nigeria to project its cultural influence globally. This worldwide recognition not only enhances Nigeria's cultural standing, but also has the potential to influence more substantial political narratives and policies that align with the nation's aspirations. As noted by writer Rex Thomson, the intricate relationship between music and politics is characterized by a blend of conflict and harmony, reflecting the complex interplay of various forces within society. This intersection has been evident in Nigeria since the 1970s, with music often acting as a vehicle for political expression and advocacy.

In conclusion, Afrobeats has transcended its musical roots to become a cultural and socio-political phenomenon. From its activist beginnings to its role in modern social movements, the genre is continuously shaping and being shaped by Nigeria’s society. Internationally, Afrobeats' rising fame offers a platform for deeper engagement with Africa's challenges, potentially influencing global perceptions and policies. As the genre continues to evolve, its impact on both local and global stages promises to be compelling and far-reaching.