Nigerian On-Air Personality (OAP), Do2dtun, has sparked a heated debate online after criticizing South African singer Tyla’s acceptance speech at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs). Tyla, who won the prestigious Best Afrobeats Award, used her acceptance speech to highlight the diversity of African music and question the categorization of all African artists under the Afrobeats umbrella.
Do2dtun’s Disagreement
Do2dtun, however, took issue with Tyla’s comments. In a series of tweets, he argued that Tyla should have either rejected the award or denounced the nomination if she felt that the “Best Afrobeats” category did not accurately represent her musical style. He criticized her for accepting the award and then claiming to be an Amapiano artist, rather than an Afrobeats artist.
Tyla’s Response
Tyla has not yet responded directly to Do2dtun’s criticism. However, her acceptance speech at the VMAs clearly expressed her belief that African music is diverse and should not be limited to the Afrobeats genre. She emphasized the importance of recognizing the various musical styles and influences that exist within the African continent.
The Afrobeats Debate
The debate between Do2dtun and Tyla highlights the ongoing discussion about the definition and scope of Afrobeats. While some argue that Afrobeats is a broad genre that encompasses various African musical styles, others maintain that it is a more specific genre with distinct characteristics.
A Growing Movement
Tyla’s comments are part of a growing movement to recognize the diversity of African music and challenge the dominance of Afrobeats. Many artists and music critics believe that the Afrobeats label is limiting and does not adequately represent the richness and complexity of African musical traditions.
The Impact on the Industry
The debate between Do2dtun and Tyla has sparked important conversations about the future of African music. It raises questions about how African artists should be categorized and promoted, and how the industry can better support the diversity of musical styles that exist on the continent.
A Call for Unity
While there may be disagreements about the definition of Afrobeats, it is important to remember that African music is a vibrant and diverse landscape. Rather than focusing on divisions, it is essential to celebrate the richness and diversity of African musical traditions and to support artists from all genres.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding Tyla’s VMA acceptance speech has highlighted the ongoing debate about the definition and scope of Afrobeats. While Do2dtun’s criticism has sparked a heated discussion, it is important to remember that the ultimate goal is to promote and celebrate the diversity of African music. By fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment, the African music industry can continue to thrive and reach new heights.
