Adekunle Gold is a relatively new afro-beat artist from Nigeria who has also won different musical awards in Africa. Through a lot of his music you can hear the beat of drums in them, representing a big part of African inspired music.

In his song, “Ire” from his album “About 30”, this drumming beat is present. Some Africanisms seen in this song as well as some other songs are polyrhythms (drum & guitar), repetition of backup singers, group participation from backup singers as well, and pitch inflection. This song is about expectations and not to be caught up with them because what you are meant to do you are already doing. The path you are already on is the path to your success. The work that you put into your success is what makes it come about. What you thought was going to make you successful (going against your house training, something new and unfamiliar) won’t, only hard work (and staying true to who you are and what makes you you. An indirect song of empowerment in staying true to yourself from the artist own perspective. If it was direct and mentioned things people do in our society for success, then I would say it showed functional in the sense of letting everyone know it is not necessary to succeed all you need to do is be true to yourself.

Afro-beat is a music genre which combines West African musical styles such as fuji music and highlife with American funk and jazz. Just like funk, his music focuses on rhythm and the tribal message. I personally listen to afro-beat as a way to be closer to my heritage, I believe the same can be said to others that also enjoy afro-beat music. 

By: Toluwanimi Araromi