Sampling, the practice of reusing portions of existing recordings in new compositions, has played a significant role in the evolution of Afrobeats. Artists like Burna Boy and Wizkid have sampled tracks from legendary Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti, infusing their music with historical depth and cultural resonance. This technique not only pays homage to the genre’s roots but also introduces classic sounds to new audiences.
Tems, the Grammy-winning Nigerian artist, recently made waves with her single “Love Me, Jeje,” an evocative tribute to Seyi Sodimu’s 1997 hit of the same name. Released on April 25, 2024, this song marks a significant moment in Tems’ career, blending her contemporary style with the nostalgic allure of classic Afrobeats. Before Tems, there were no notable records of other artists sampling “Love Me, Jeje,” making her rendition unique and a fresh revival of Sodimu’s classic. Tems’ approach pays homage and introduces the seminal track to a new generation of listeners.
Additionally, other artists have also explored similar themes, bringing attention to classic tracks that were part of a curated list but have now been sampled. ID Cabasa recently reimagined Styl Plus’ 2004 hit “Olufunmi,” further contributing to this trend of blending old and new styles in Nigerian music. Meanwhile, Johnny Drille worked on a rendition of “Ekwe” by Masterkraft and Original Stereoman, which has sparked controversy. Many Nigerians feel that Johnny Drille, known for his folk-Afrobeats style, should have sampled the track used by ID Cabasa. In contrast, the latter, with their more dynamic and versatile rap-Afrobeats style, would have been better suited for “Ekwe.”
These choices reflect an effort to preserve and reintroduce classic Afrobeats tracks to today’s audience. The fact that these songs, once part of a list of my classics below, are now sampled by modern artists means a lot, showing a continuous and evolving appreciation of Nigeria’s wonderful musical heritage.
Fela Kuti, often considered the father of Afrobeat, created music filled with political and social commentary, rhythm, and melody. His influence is undeniable, and by sampling his work, modern Afrobeats artists are not only paying homage to the genre’s roots but also keeping its spirit alive. This technique introduces classic sounds to new audiences, bridging generational gaps and fostering a deeper appreciation for the genre’s history.
https://youtu.be/lPe09eE6Xio?si=NL1qkfxH5y-RGP7t
Sampling in Afrobeats goes beyond replicating old tunes; it involves a creative reinterpretation that breathes new life into traditional rhythms and melodies. For instance, Burna Boy’s “Ye” incorporates elements reminiscent of Fela’s style, creating a modern anthem that resonates with old and new fans. Wizkid, too, has deftly used samples to enrich his music, blending the past with the present seamlessly.
Incorporating samples allows artists to explore and experiment with diverse sounds, creating unique musical experiences that are both familiar and innovative. This practice underscores the dynamic nature of Afrobeats, showcasing its ability to evolve while staying connected to its origins. By integrating elements of the past into the present, sampling has become a vital tool in the ongoing story of Afrobeats. This practice ensures the genre remains perfect and relevant across generations, continually evolving while honouring its unique history.
Top 10 Afrobeats Classics for Modern Sampling
African Queen by 2Baba (2004)
- Timeless Appeal & Distinctive Elements: Smooth melody and universal theme of admiration.
- Reinterpretation Potential: Ideal for modern ballads and R&B reinterpretations.
- Cultural Significance: An iconic love song that has remained a staple in Afrobeats.
Oliver Twist by D’banj (2012)
- Timeless Appeal & Distinctive Elements: Catchy beat and playful lyrics.
- Reinterpretation Potential: Perfect for updating with contemporary beats and electronic elements.
- Cultural Significance: A global hit that showcases the fun and vibrant side of Afrobeats.
Joromi by Sir Victor Uwaifo (1970)
- Timeless Appeal & Distinctive Elements: Captivating guitar solos and rhythmic grooves.
- Reinterpretation Potential: Perfect for infusing modern styles while preserving its charm.
- Cultural Significance: A beloved highlife classic showcasing Nigerian musical heritage.
Ego by Djinee (2006)
- Timeless Appeal & Distinctive Elements: Smooth vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and a soulful melody.
- Reinterpretation Potential: Ideal for blending with contemporary beats and R&B elements to create a fresh, modern sound.
- Cultural Significance: A track that captures the emotional depth of Nigerian love songs, resonating with audiences for its authenticity and passion.
Fall in Love by D’banj (2008)
- Timeless Appeal & Distinctive Elements: Catchy melody, romantic lyrics, and infectious beats.
- Reinterpretation Potential: Great for modern remixes, blending Afrobeat with contemporary pop and R&B styles.
- Cultural Significance: A famous love anthem that showcases the charm and versatility of Afrobeats, resonating with audiences across generations.
Let’s Start by Fela Kuti & Africa 70 (1971)
- Timeless Appeal & Distinctive Elements: Features dynamic brass sections, energetic percussion, and the synergy between Fela Kuti’s Afrobeat and Ginger Baker’s drumming.
- Reinterpretation Potential: Ideal for modern reinterpretations, adding electronic elements or hip-hop beats while retaining its vibrant and powerful instrumentation.
- Cultural Significance: A track that showcases the collaboration between African and Western music legends, highlighting the global influence and innovative spirit of Fela Kuti’s Afrobeat.
Amebo by Lijadu Sisters (1976)
- Timeless Appeal & Distinctive Elements: Known for its captivating harmonies, infectious rhythm, and a blend of Afrobeat with funk and highlife elements.
- Reinterpretation Potential: Perfect for modern sampling by infusing electronic beats or contemporary pop elements while preserving its rich vocal harmonies and vibrant groove.
- Cultural Significance: A classic track that captures the essence of the Lijadu Sisters’ innovative approach to Nigerian music, addressing social themes with catchy and danceable melodies.
Do Me by P-Square (2007)
- Timeless Appeal & Distinctive Elements: Energetic beats, catchy chorus, and vibrant dance rhythms.
- Reinterpretation Potential: Ideal for modern remixes, blending contemporary Afrobeat, electronic dance music, or hip-hop elements.
- Cultural Significance: A classic party anthem that showcases the signature sound of P-Square, embodying the lively and celebratory spirit of Afrobeats.
Elewe Ukwu by TJ (2009)
- Timeless Appeal & Distinctive Elements: Beautiful rhythm, soft beats and catchy chorus.
- Reinterpretation Potential: Perfect beat sampling with the same chorus.
- Cultural Significance: A classic love song by TJ played countless times in various radio stations.
Ololufe by Orlando Julius (1966)
- Timeless Appeal & Distinctive Elements: Orlando Julius’ “Ololufe” is characterised by its soulful melodies, groovy rhythms, and heartfelt lyrics, creating a captivating and memorable listening experience.
- Reinterpretation Potential: This classic track offers rich material for modern reinterpretation, allowing for the incorporation of contemporary Afrobeat, jazz, or funk elements to breathe new life into its timeless sound.
- Cultural Significance: “Ololufe” is a standout example of Orlando Julius’ pioneering contributions to Afrobeat music, reflecting his talent and ability to transcend cultural boundaries with his music.
This list of Top 10 Afrobeats Classics for Modern Sampling is a subjective selection, highlighting just a few of the many classic songs that have the potential to be reimagined for contemporary audiences. Countless other tracks could also serve as sources of inspiration for modern artists. Adding some Afrobeat songs to this list is crucial as it ensures a well-rounded representation of the genre’s evolution and the diverse sounds that have shaped its history.
It’s worth noting that some of these songs were identified through the insightful responses to a question tag tweet by The49thStreet, which asked fans to name their favourite old Nigerian songs. This engagement with the community reflects the enduring popularity and cultural significance of these tracks.
Afrobeats, with its infectious energy and mix of sounds, will continue to inspire and influence musicians worldwide. As artists explore their rich past, they create a bright future, keeping the genre a crucial part of global music culture for generations. This ongoing blend of old and new keeps the genre alive, celebrating the enduring spirit of African music.
