Student Critique - Kamsi Anumihe
Tyla
“Tyla Speaks Out On Categorizing All African Music As Afrobeats”
This article by Mya Abraham about South-African artist Tyla describes Tyla’s experience as an African artist maneuvering the global music scene. At 2024 MTV VMA’s, Tyla used her acceptance speech for Best Afrobeats to advocate for the recognition of African music’s diversity. Admist, afrobeats’ recent global recognition and popularity, Tyla emphasized that Afrobeats is much more diverse and does not just encompass one specific African sound and genre, but rather describes the unique genre of West African, specifically Nigerian music. In her speech, she highlighted her specific genre, Amapiano, which is a specific South African sound which is completely distinct from West African afrobeats. Her intent was to encourage Western audiences to explore other African genres outside of Afrobeats, and to illustrate the dynamic range of music across the African continent. The article was very well written and descriptive, and provided insight into the dynamics of African music in its relation to Western audiences. However, I believe one aspect the author can work on is providing more historical context of Afrobeats, as well as reasoning as to why it is important to not categorize the entirety of African sounds and genres as Afrobeats.
Frank Ocean
"What Makes Frank Ocean so Special?"
Frank Ocean is regarded as highly talented and innovative artist, openly praised by a myriad of musical artists, such as Kanye West, Beyonce, Jay-Z, and Drake. His unique blend of alternative, pop, neo-soul, and RnB give his music a distinctive sound which sets him apart in the music industry. His albums like “Channel Orange” and “Blonde” are critically acclaimed for their genre-blurring style, drawing influences from pop, jazz, electronic, and even ambient music. Additionally, his ability to tell powerful and introspective stories through his moving lyricism allows listeners to connect with him through his music on an intimate level. This article is very well written and passionately describes the distinctiveness and originality of Frank Ocean’s music. The author’s attention to detail in the article was also very impressive. One aspect the author could work on is providing examples of the unique musical elements Frank Ocean utilizes in his music which draws listeners in.
Wizkid
"For The Record: How Wizkid Elevated Nigeria and Propelled the Ascent of Afrobeats With His Star-Studded Album 'Made In Lagos'"
Wizkid is one of the most influential artists in Nigeria and globally, not only for his unique sound but also for his social activism and rise to international success. Wizkid’s music blends Afrobeats, reggae, dancehall, and pop, creating a distinct sound that resonates with both African and global audiences, largely contributing to the global ascent and mobilization of Afrobeats. One aspect of Wizkid’s music that particularly stands out, is amplification of the voices of oppressed and disenfranchised Nigerians and call for reform of the Nigerian government. He utilizes his music as a platform to be vocal about political and social issues in Nigeria. This article is extremely well written, describing the historical context of Afrobeats, as well as Wizkid’s social, political, and music influence throughout Nigeria. The author very well encapsulates Wizkid’s passion for his artistry, as well as for social justice in Nigeria. The author’s intention and attentiveness to detail provides insight into Wizkid’s global influence and musical ingenuity.
