A music educationist, choirmaster and historian, Babatunde Shosanya, has said that though some artistes have in recent times distanced themselves from afrobeats, it will not affect the music genre that is currently the toast of the world.

Speaking on the evolution of afrobeats, he told Saturday Beats, “Fela Anikulapo-Kuti was the father of afrobeat. The blend of highlife, funk and jazz gave birth to the popular music genre.

“I can confidently state that afrobeat birthed afrobeats. It is safe to say that the inspiration from Fela Kuti paved the way for afrobeats. It is worth noting that prominent African musicians are well recognised across the globe, and they have also collaborated with their counterparts in different parts of the world.”

He continued, “Those artistes who distance themselves from afrobeats music actually owe their careers and fame to the same genre of music. However, they are all free to distance themselves as much as they like, because that genre of music has already gained traction all over the world.”

Shosanya, who is known to be an avid fan of Davido, also spoke about his relationship with the singer. He recalled, “I have a cordial relationship with Davido, and the love I have for him is undiluted. I pride myself as his number one fan.

“My relationship with him actually started at the British International School in Lagos. He graduated in 2008, and l joined the school as the Head of Music in 2011. That means l never had the privilege to teach him. However, one evening in 2020, he paid a surprise visit to the school, and when l stepped out to meet him, I was impressed by his humility. From that day, he gained my respect and love.”