Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Tems explains that Afrobeats serves as an escapism genre in Nigeria, focusing on providing relief from harsh realities rather than addressing societal issues. Her comments come in response to reggae legend Buju Banton’s criticism of the genre.

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]emilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, the Grammy-winning Nigerian singer, has offered insights into the essence of Afrobeats, describing it as a genre specifically designed for escapism.

According to Tems, the primary purpose of Afrobeats in Nigeria is to provide an escape from the harsh realities of life, rather than to serve as a medium for addressing societal issues.

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Tems shared these views while responding to criticism from Jamaican reggae legend Buju Banton during an episode of the ‘Shopping The Sneakers’ podcast.

Banton had claimed that Afrobeats lacked substance and would eventually fade away.

In her response, Tems acknowledged Banton’s perspective but emphasised that Afrobeats is fundamentally different from reggae.

She noted that the genre’s role in Nigeria is to offer listeners a form of escapism, allowing them to temporarily step away from the challenges they face in their daily lives.

Tems, known for her hit song ‘Love Me Jeje,’ further explained that Afrobeats should not be expected to carry the same weight as genres like reggae, which often focuses on addressing societal ills. Instead, Afrobeats thrives on its ability to create an enjoyable and uplifting atmosphere, making it a popular choice for those seeking a break from reality.

Her comments reflect a broader understanding of the genre’s role in Nigerian culture, highlighting its unique place in the music industry as a source of joy and relief for its listeners.