Nigerian rapper Emeka “Blaqbonez” Akumefule has opened up about feeling consistently underrated in the music industry, attributing this to the unique and novel approach of his music style. The artist, known for his hit ‘Haba’ and his contributions to the Afrobeats genre, has expressed his frustrations with the current musical landscape, emphasizing his refusal to conform to what he views as a stagnant formula.
Blaqbonez’s music, which blends elements of rap with Afrobeats, stands out for its depth and creativity, contrasting sharply with what he describes as the “boring recipe” employed by many within the genre. “I’m constantly underrated because my shit is brand new, they’ve never heard it before, it’s not what the doctor prescribed,” the rapper lamented on social media. He critiqued the current state of Afrobeats, suggesting that the genre often lacks substance and innovation, leading to a homogenous sound that he boldly declared “sounds like ASS these days.”
Despite the criticism, Blaqbonez acknowledges the support of his fans, who appreciate his dedication to breaking the mold and offering something distinct from the norm. “The people that listen to me are the people that chose to break out of the norm to make their own choices, and I know they appreciate the sacrifice,” he stated, highlighting the connection he has with his audience who seek out his unique sound.
The conversation around Blaqbonez’s comments extended to social media, where a user questioned his stance on Afrobeats given his collaboration with artists from the genre. Blaqbonez responded by underscoring the scarcity of compelling new music, revealing, “I’ve only added 2 songs to my rotation this year, and it’s been 3 months, most releases have been ass.
Blaqbonez’s outspoken critique and personal reflections on the state of Afrobeats not only underscore his commitment to artistic integrity but also ignite important discussions about innovation, diversity, and quality within the music industry. As the conversation continues, it’s clear that Blaqbonez remains a vital voice for change and evolution in the increasingly global landscape of Afrobeats and beyond.
