Afrobeat

Afrobeat is a music genre that blends Nigerian highlife, Yoruba rhythms, funk, and jazz. It originated in the late 1960s in Nigeria, chiefly through Fela Kuti and his band Africa ’70 (later Egypt 80) with drummer Tony Allen. Afrobeat is characterized by dense polyrhythms, extended instrumental sections, powerful horn sections, a strong groove, and call-and-response vocals, with lyrics often addressing political and social issues.

The typical Afrobeat ensemble is large, often 10 or more musicians, including trumpets, saxophones, trombones, guitar, keyboards, bass, and multiple percussionists. Songs tend to be long, featuring repeated riffs, groove-based vamping, and extended instrumental solos. Drums and percussion drive the rhythm with intricate polyrhythms, while guitars provide ostinatos and keyboards and horns add color.

Historically, Fela Kuti’s work in the 1970s helped establish Afrobeat as a major African popular music form; tracks such as "Zombie" critiqued authoritarianism and state power. Notable later contributors include Fela’s sons Femi Kuti and Seun Kuti, as well as other musicians who kept the style active. Afrobeat has influenced world music, jazz, and fusion genres and remains a foundational reference for contemporary artists exploring the sound.

Afrobeat is distinct from Afrobeat-pop fusion known as Afrobeats, a newer Nigerian style that blends elements of hip hop, dancehall, and electronic music. While related in name, Afrobeat refers to the original 1960s–1970s movement led by Fela Kuti, whereas Afrobeats describes a broader, modern pop-oriented scene.