THE RISE OF AFROBEAT AND AMAPIANO: HOW MALAWIAN MUSICIANS ARE RIDING THE WAVE

 

 

We’ve witnessed an influx of music genres worldwide, from House to Kwaito, Trap, and Drill. However, two genres have significantly impacted Malawi’s music scene: Afrobeat and Amapiano.

Inspired by the legendary Nigerian musician Fela Kuti, Afrobeat blends jazz, funk, and traditional African rhythms. Malawian artists have embraced this genre, drawing inspiration from its rich history and infectious beats. Afrobeat has become a welcoming home for creativity and expression in Malawi.

Amapiano, a subgenre of kwaito and house music, emerged in South Africa during the mid-2010s. In 2019, it gained popularity across the African continent, with digital streams and chart successes far beyond its South African origin. Malawian artists have eagerly jumped on the Amapiano wave, infusing their music with its distinctive beats.

Merchah, also known as Uchizi Msowoya, highlights how Afrobeat and Amapiano have influenced Malawian artists’ lyrical prowess. He emphasizes that these genres carry substance and are lyrical when explored outside Malawi. However, he acknowledges that some artists in Malawi focus on pleasing the audience rather than maintaining the genre’s authenticity.

Roy View, a philanthropist, fashion designer, and social media influencer, expresses concern about the prevalence of copying and sampling. While Amapiano and Afrobeat are enjoyable, relying solely on them as main genres may hinder Malawi’s long-term musical growth. Roy suggests that artists should balance beats with meaningful lyrics to break into the international market successfully.

Malawi’s music industry is evolving, and Afrobeat and Amapiano play a significant role. As artists continue to experiment with these genres, they must strike a balance between commercial appeal and artistic integrity. By doing so, they can create music that resonates both locally and globally.