Nigerian music sensation Joseph Akinfenwa Donus, professionally known as Joeboy, has responded to fellow artist Damini Ogulu, popularly called Burnaboy, regarding his recent remarks about ‘substance’ in Afrobeats music.
Burnaboy had expressed in an interview with Apple Music’s Zane Lowe that many Afrobeats musicians create songs lacking substance. However, during a guest appearance on the Zero Conditions podcast, Joeboy shared his perspective on Burnaboy’s stance, asserting that each Afrobeats artist possesses inherent substance in their work.
In his words, Joeboy stated, “I believe everyone holds substance within their music. It all depends on what resonates with people. At times, when you produce a lively and danceable track, it might seem like you’re just caught up in the vibe.” The singer of hits like ‘Don’t Call Me Back’ emphasized that the concept of ‘substance’ in music transcends language barriers, debunking the misconception that lyrical prowess is solely tied to English lyrics.
Addressing critics on social media, Joeboy highlighted, “I’ve witnessed comments implying that singing in plain English is a measure of ‘pen game.’ Does language determine pen game? Just because a song’s lyrics are in English? Understandably, musical preferences differ among individuals. However, anyone with the creative capacity to conjure something out of thin air possesses substance.” He further asserted that even though not all forms of substance might be well-received, as long as a segment of the audience connects with the creation, it is a manifestation of substance, even if it doesn’t resonate with everyone.
In his concluding remarks, Joeboy acknowledged the existence of varying degrees of substance, stating that while some aspects might be less appealing, they still hold artistic value.
