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Amaarae talks about Alté music’s impact on Afrobeat.
Ghanaian award-winning artist Amaarae recently offered her insights on the influence of the Alté movement on Afrobeat music, shedding light on its significance within the African music landscape.
In an interview that surfaced online on Friday, April 5, 2024, Amaarae discussed the evolution of Afrobeat, particularly highlighting Wizkid’s acclaimed album “Made In Lagos” as emblematic of the Alté sound.
According to her, the entire album embodies the Alté ethos, signaling a shift in the Afrobeat genre towards a fusion of alternative elements.
In her thoughtful commentary, Amaarae underscored the pivotal role of Alté artists in shaping the contemporary Afrobeat sound.
She asserted that without the presence of Alté artists, mainstream Afrobeat musicians would lack the innovation and creativity necessary to resonate with audiences, both locally and globally.
Amaarae’s perspective highlights the transformative impact of the Alté movement on African music and its ability to push boundaries and redefine genres.
In her words, “The whole Wizkid’s Made In Lagos album is like all Alté. Afrobeat sound now is what Alté was in 2015. If alté artist didn’t exist, Afrobeat artist wouldn’t have known how to make their music.
They wouldn’t have known how to create that synergy like people in the western world will connect and relate to. I really think alté opened that up. She confirmed that alté means alternative to what the mainstream in Africa was. Twitter artists believe alté artist have an air of arrogance.”
In addition, Amaarae further elaborated on the significance of the Alté movement, affirming its role as an alternative to the conventional mainstream music prevalent in Africa.
She emphasized that Alté has fostered the creation of a distinct musical synergy that appeals to diverse audiences, transcending geographical boundaries.
Despite the positive impact of the Alté movement, Amaarae acknowledged the perception among some artists who view Alté artists as displaying arrogance.
Nonetheless, she underscored the importance of acknowledging Alté as a legitimate alternative expression within the African music industry.
By embracing Alté and its unique artistic contributions, the music industry can foster diversity and innovation, ultimately enriching the cultural tapestry of African music.
“Wizkid’s Made In Lagos is Alté music, he worked with alté guys like Tay Iwar and Juls on the album.“
– Amaarae pic.twitter.com/Gvp6nnkCXd
— BASITO (@itzbasito) April 5, 2024