Renowned Nigerian DJ, DJ Obi, is urging the Afrobeats community to give British-Nigerian rapper Skepta the credit he deserves for helping the genre gain international recognition.
Speaking on a recent podcast, DJ Obi reflected on a defining moment in Afrobeats history, the release of the Ojuelegba remix featuring Skepta and global superstar Drake in 2015. According to him, this collaboration marked a major turning point for African music on the world stage.
“Skepta did a lot for Afrobeats. I don’t think we give him his flowers and respect,” DJ Obi stated, as he revisited the crucial connections that opened doors for Nigerian artists internationally. He explained that while local stars were already making waves at home, it took influential allies like Skepta to help bridge the gap to global markets.
Obi highlighted how Skepta, a respected figure in the UK music scene, used his platform to champion Wizkid and Afrobeats at a time when the genre was still finding its footing abroad. That connection ultimately brought Drake into the picture, leading to one of Afrobeats’ most significant crossover moments.
“When there was need for help to cross over, certain people stood up. And Skepta was one of those people,” Obi emphasized, adding that the collaboration wasn’t just about music but about cultural representation and access.
While making it clear he’s not dismissing the hard work of Nigerian artists, DJ Obi maintained that figures like Skepta played a crucial role in amplifying the genre and deserve to be acknowledged for their contribution.
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