MUSIC: NIGERIA V. AFRICA: CONSCIOUS MUSIC

Nigerian music has always been an avenue for artists to express the fears, concerns and issues of the people. Fela Kuti lost his mother and ended up in jail on account of his criticism of various regimes. Sonny Okosun sang songs in support of the Anti-Apartheid movement.

Both Fela and Sonny Okosun are now departed but it seems that Nigerian musicians continue to use song to convey the import of current issues. For instance, Timaya's "Dem Mama" is a touching song that captures the horror of the Odi Massacre in 1999. Fela's son, Femi Kuti, also keeps the spirit of Afrobeat music alive with creative and inspiring music.

Then there is the latest song from Sound Sultan called "BushMeat". Born Olanrewaju Fasasi, he manages to create a message that is unique yet very Nigerian at the same time. With a clever use of double speak and an incredible play on words, Sound Sultan and fellow Nigerian artist TuFace Idibia create a song that is a herald's call to the people to wake up.

In many ways it is 'Rebel Music' of the kind Fela (AKA 'Baba') created and that has now become prophetic. Did I mention that I love 'Rebel Music'? Will this song ever be filed away in the halls with the incredible music Fela and others created? I am not sure, but I can personally attest that if you listen to the words of this song, you will be inspired to want a better Nigeria that belongs to the people and not just the 'Hunter'.

In the song, he asks the crucial question,

"When de bushmeat go catch de hunter?"

And, he goes on to eventually pose additional questions that force one to think a little deeper,

"What could be the answer,
Or could it be that we don't matter to them,
Cause they chop your money,
My money,
Every other person money..."

I personally don't have the answers to these questions, but am glad at the opportunity to ponder them.

With Nigerians creating more conscious, yet danceable and enjoyable music, the toils of 'Baba' and others who sacrificed for their art and their beliefs will not be in vain. I apologize for not having the lyrics to 'Bushmeat' and if anyone can provide them, I will be sure to add them to the post. Regardless, take the time to listen and I hope that you will be moved by the message.

Enjoy!



As Fela famously said "Music Is The Weapon" and I believe that some day, the 'Bushmeat' will indeed catch the 'Hunter'!



Further Reading:
-Nigeria vs. The African Continent
-Nigeria vs. The African Continent II - P-Square "Say your Love"
-Nigeria vs. The African Continent III - Infinity's "Olori Oko"
-Nigeria vs. The African Continent IV - Tuface
-Nigeria vs. The African Continent V - Ty Bello's "Greenland"
-Nigeria vs. The African Continent VI - Banky W.'s "Ebute Meta"
-Nigeria vs. The African Continent VII - Fishe's "Africa"
-Nigeria vs. The African Continent VIII - Asa's "So Beautiful"
-Nigeria vs. The African Continent IX - Nayo's "1+1"


And, Check Out:
- Radical Lyrics (Lost At The End Of The World)