Bella Shmurda Urges Respect for Afrobeats Amidst Rising Disrespect from Nigerian Artists
In a passionate plea for the preservation of Afrobeats’ integrity, rising Nigerian artist Bella Shmurda has taken a stand against the recent trend of disrespect towards the genre by some prominent figures within the music industry.
Addressing the issue in an interview on The 90s Show, Bella Shmurda expressed his dismay at the growing denigration of Afrobeats by notable artists, including Wizkid, who recently distanced himself from the genre via an Instagram story rant.
“We all artists should respect Afrobeats. This is our thing; you can’t downgrade it no matter what level you’re,” Bella Shmurda asserted, highlighting Afrobeats as a source of joy and cultural pride for Nigerians, especially in challenging times marked by societal and governmental issues.
Taking aim at artists who have disparaged Afrobeats in attempts to distance themselves from the genre, Bella Shmurda criticized their selective support for international awards while neglecting local accolades like the Headies Awards and AFRIMA. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing recognition from home and urged artists to participate actively in African awards ceremonies to truly represent the continent.
“If they try to categorize us, let’s prioritize our own. If you want to be acknowledged properly, from home, you have to be that person,” Bella Shmurda stressed, urging Nigerian artists to embrace and celebrate their roots rather than seeking validation solely from external sources.
Moreover, Bella Shmurda lamented the tendency of some industry leaders to prioritize validation from abroad over the promotion and preservation of Afrobeats’ authenticity and significance. He emphasized the need for influential figures within the music scene to champion Afrobeats’ cause and resist undermining its cultural value.
Bella Shmurda’s impassioned defense of Afrobeats reflects broader concerns within the industry about the genre’s portrayal and recognition. As stakeholders continue to grapple with the challenges of maintaining Afrobeats’ integrity amidst evolving musical landscapes, Bella Shmurda’s advocacy serves as a poignant reminder of the genre’s enduring importance and cultural resonance.
