ID Cabasa Challenges Akon’s Claim to Afrobeats Origins

A recent statement by Senegalese-American artist Akon, suggesting his pivotal role in the creation and global spread of Afrobeats, has sparked significant debate within the Nigerian music industry. Veteran Nigerian music producer ID Cabasa has publicly refuted these claims, emphasizing that Afrobeats is a collective cultural evolution rather than the product of any single individual’s efforts.

In an interview with Wazobia FM, ID Cabasa addressed Akon’s assertion that his collaborations with Nigerian artists in the late 2000s and early 2010s were instrumental in shaping Afrobeats. Cabasa acknowledged Akon’s involvement in the international music scene but stressed that Afrobeats’ roots lie deeply within Nigerian culture and music. He pointed out that artists like 2Face Idibia, 9ice, and Timaya had already established the Afrobeats sound well before Akon’s entry into the Nigerian market.

Cabasa also clarified the narrative surrounding Wizkid’s rise to fame, stating that it was Banky W who discovered and signed Wizkid to Empire Mates Entertainment (EME), not Akon. While Akon’s label may have been involved in distribution, Cabasa emphasized that this partnership should not be misconstrued as Akon being responsible for Wizkid’s success or the emergence of Afrobeats.

He highlighted that Afrobeats is a genre shaped by generations of Nigerian artists, producers, and communities. He argued that attributing its origins to a single individual overlooks the collaborative efforts and cultural influences that have contributed to its development. Cabasa’s perspective underscores the importance of acknowledging the collective nature of Afrobeats and the contributions of various stakeholders in its evolution.

This conversation reflects broader discussions within the Nigerian music industry about the ownership and representation of Afrobeats. Some artists have expressed concerns about the genre being misrepresented or appropriated by external forces. For instance, Cabasa has previously criticized the Grammy Awards for defining Afrobeats as a fusion of African and American sounds, arguing that such descriptions misrepresent its true origins. He emphasized the need for Africans to control the narrative surrounding Afrobeats to ensure its cultural integrity is maintained.

Conclusion

While international collaborations have undoubtedly played a role in the global spread of Afrobeats, it’s crucial to recognize and honor the genre’s deep-rooted connections to Nigerian culture and its evolution through the collective efforts of local artists and communities. As Afrobeats continues to gain international acclaim, discussions like these highlight the importance of preserving its authentic narrative and acknowledging the contributions of its true pioneers.