"I am not an Afrobeats Artiste"- Flavour

Flavour N'abania, known simply as Flavour, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist, blending traditional Igbo music with modern styles, captivating audiences with his soulful voice and energetic live performances

Credit: Bellanaija

In a recent interview, Nigerian music sensation, Flavour sparked a heated debate when he declared, "I'm not an Afrobeats artiste, I'm an African artiste." This statement has left many in the music industry and fans alike wondering: what does it mean to be an Afrobeats artiste, and is Flavour's rejection of the label genre a bold move or a mere semantics game?

On one hand, Flavour's assertion can be seen as a nod to the rich cultural diversity of African music. By embracing the broader term "African artiste," he acknowledges the complexity and variety of sounds that exist across the continent. This move can be interpreted as a desire to transcend genre boundaries and connect with a wider audience.

Credit: Bellanaija

This is therefore more than just a statement – it's a cry for artistic freedom and a reminder that our music is more than just a genre. It's a call to embrace the rich cultural diversity of Africa, to celebrate our unique sounds, and to continuously promote our heritage through music, unapologetically.

Let's be real, labels or genres can be limiting. They can confine us to a specific sound, a specific style, and a specific audience. But African music is so much more than that. It's a tapestry of rhythms, melodies, and stories that transcend borders and genres. It's the beat of our ancestors, the pulse of our cities, and the harmony of our cultures.

Credit: Legit

Flavour's music is a testament to this diversity. His fusion of traditional Igbo rhythms, contemporary Afrobeats, and international influences is a reflection of the beauty of African music – its ability to adapt, to evolve, and to inspire.

So, let's not get caught up in labels or genres. Let's not restrict ourselves to what's deemed "Afrobeats" or "traditional" or "contemporary." Let's embrace the entirety of African music, in all its glory. Let's promote our culture, our heritage, and our stories through every note, every beat, and every melody.

Flavour's declaration is a reminder that our music is a powerful tool for unity, for celebration, and for cultural exchange. Let's wield it with pride, with passion, and with a commitment to showcasing the beauty of Africa to the world.