On the Low Afrobeat’s: Sonically Scotland

On the Low Afrobeat’s: Sonically Scotland

Spotlighting Scotland's Afrobeat Stars & Hidden Gems

Words by ESHER

The juxtaposition of Afrobeat’s and Scotland couldn't be more striking. In a land where bagpipes reign supreme, the dynamic genre of Afrobeat music is still finding its place in the Scottish music scene, a contrast to its dominance in English and American markets. Once relegated to the background, playing during weddings or Sunday morning cleaning sessions, Afrobeat has undergone an unparalleled resurgence. It has transitioned from being associated with old-school tunes to becoming a significant player in major cultural conversations, featuring prominently in events like the Grammy Awards and Sports Halftime shows.

To understand the Afrobeat pulse in Scotland, we have to tip our hats to the pioneers – the trailblazing musicians who dared to blend genres and challenge musical norms outside of the U.K. From the soulful Fuji beats pioneered by Fela Kuti to the contemporary waves crafted by artists like Asake and Shallipoppi, the trajectory of Afrobeat has experienced a remarkable switch up since it burst onto the scene in the 1960s. The genre's come-up story is a testament to its dynamic nature, constantly absorbing new influences and reinventing itself for each generation. Fela Kuti, widely acknowledged as the pivotal forefather of Afrobeat, established the genre's roots through his ground-breaking fusion of traditional Nigerian rhythms, jazz, and highlife music. His politically charged lyrics and energetic compositions made waves not only in Nigeria but also across the globe.

As the decades rolled on, Afrobeat continued to mutate, adapting to the changing cultural landscapes, and embracing new sonic elements. The 1980s saw the rise of Afrobeat groups incorporating electronic instruments, giving the genre a modern twist while staying true to its roots.

Bands like SAMBA SENE AND DIWAN are keeping the old-school wave of Afrobeat alive here in Scotland. This collective, comprising a diverse group of musicians, skilfully merges West African rhythms to create a vibrant performance. Spearheaded by Samba Sene, a veteran in the game, who has previously supported icons like Youssou Ndour and Amadou & Mariam. Their seasoned expertise culminates in a rich Afrobeat experience, earning them coveted spots on major platforms, including BBC Radio Scotland and The Scottish Parliament.

Fast forward to the present day, and we find ourselves amidst an Afrobeat renaissance led by trailblazing artists such as Burna Boy, Cruel Santino, Rema, and Tems, among others. These musicians pushed the genre into uncharted territories.

A rising collective of Scottish artists shares similar ambitions, with notable figures such as Afro-fusion musicians Aiitee and Sean Focus as well as new wave artist itzAydee, are the prospective leaders of the new school within the Scottish music scene.

I had the chance to speak with BENAIAH, an emerging Nigerian Afrobeat artist making waves in the uncharted territories of the Scottish music world. BENAIAH’s passion for cultural fusion makes it hard to box him into one genre. He leaves his mark on the scene by skilfully bridging two musical realms together with songs like YEBA and H.R.N. We talked about his vision, his music, and who he is within the Scottish music industry.

Tell me about your musical roots and what fuels your passion?

My grandfather, well my grand-uncle was a poet known worldwide as the first modernist poet of anglophone Africa—Gabriel Okara. I read one of his poems when I was younger and that inspired me to start writing. My creative side has always been loud, and I thought that if I put in enough effort, I could write just as well as he did. I couldn't sing or rap when I was younger, but learning how to play the violin, drums, and piano ignited my inner desire to pursue music.

My motivation comes from achieving my dream of looking back when I'm in my 50s and 60s. I supported my family, contributed to musical history, and wasn't just a statistic. My aim is to be competent at the craft.

How do you navigate within the Scottish Scene?

My goals have changed; now, all I want to do is enjoy where I am. Originally, I wanted to just make it and then go global. I began collaborating with local producers and musicians. I also started going to a lot of Aberdeen open mic events. I aim to make an impression everywhere I go; I’m not limiting myself to just one geographical location. I also aim to work with more artists in the Scottish music scene.

What kind of challenges and struggles do you face being an artist in Scotland?

The biggest difficulty I have with making music in Scotland is that there aren't many creative collectives. A lot of creatives approach their work with individualism. It could be easier to produce things if say for example we had an Afrobeat label like Mavins—one of the largest record labels in Africa (for those who are unaware). I’m not just talking about features I’m more so saying for resources and getting the best deals for those of us that deserve to break the glass ceiling. We should be working together to smash it but unfortunately, it’s not like that.

How do you feel your music fits within the Scottish Music Scene?

The target audience for H.R.N and the one for YEBA are very different. The global reach that YEBA has seen has been crazy, I've seen plays all the way in Kazakhstan! I've recognised that I have two distinct categories of people listening to my music, and I feel like my position is in limbo. But after I release my new tracks, I believe the two will become one.

What are some musical achievements you’ve seen so far?

Getting YEBA played twice on BBC Radio Scotland, I thought, "Wow, are you serious?" That was the craziest thing that's happened so far.

Where do you see your music career in the next 5 years, what do you hope to achieve?

I’m working with a lot of out-of-town artists both domestically and internationally, there's a lot of exciting stuff in the works. I’ve got an EP on the way too so can’t wait for that!

BENAIAH is a rising talent in Scotland who is reshaping the Afrobeat narrative. He's pushing the envelope with his music and making the most of his resources.

The Afrobeat movement showcases music's power to transcend borders and unite people through a shared love for rhythm and melody. Today’s era is not yesterday’s era; however, it offers major opportunities for breakthroughs. As we look ahead, the future of Afrobeat in Scotland seems brighter than ever. The genre continues to evolve, with emerging artists infusing their own unique styles and influences into the mix, keeping listeners on their toes.

But what about other topics in other realms of the music industry? the “war” between Afrobeat and Soca warriors, where is the money in music? the controversy surrounding mismatched hit songs and Pop artist collaborations?

The questions never end, but as Burna Boy puts it, "that one is another story."

BONUS addition

Off the back of this piece I’ve curated a playlist with the top Afrobeat sounds from Scotland only on Spotify. Feel free to have listen and join the wave. Listen below!