Afrobeat

Afrobeat is a vibrant, polyrhythmic genre that originated in West Africa, particularly in Nigeria, in the 1960s and 1970s. Characterized by driving horn sections, percussive guitar riffs, and complex time signatures, Afrobeat combines traditional Yoruba music, jazz, and funk elements. The genre's hypnotic rhythms, often in 12/8 time, are punctuated by call-and-response vocal patterns, socially conscious lyrics, and catchy horn melodies. As a cultural force, Afrobeat played a significant role in promoting African identity and social justice, influencing the likes of disco and hip-hop. Its unique blend of local and global influences sets Afrobeat apart from other African genres, such as highlife and fuji, while its emphasis on collective improvisation and rhythmic experimentation distinguishes it from Western funk and soul.

Mtoto

Jay Melody

Single - Released April 20, 2025