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ID Cabasa shared how a conversation with Olamide inspired his upcoming project
Veteran Nigerian music producer and label executive ID Cabasa has revealed that his upcoming album is driven by a passion to reinforce the identity and legacy of Afrobeats.
Speaking during an interview on Rubbing Minds, Cabasa disclosed that the idea for the project was birthed out of a deep reflection on the evolution and historical foundation of Afrobeats, which he feels is not adequately understood or preserved.
According to him, a conversation with rap star Olamide further validated his mission.
“Olamide mentioned that we should probably bring back some of the sounds that shaped the Afrobeats, and it resonated with what I was planning to do,” he said.
Cabasa added that their discussion helped expose a gap in the historical understanding of the genre:
“In a conversation with Olamide about Afrobeats and its identity, I found there is a lacuna around its history.”
The respected producer, who has played a pivotal role in shaping Nigerian pop music, emphasized that his motivation is rooted in cultural preservation and the need to educate both new artists and fans on the roots of Afrobeats.
To this end, he has embarked on a creative journey to reimagine iconic classics from the genre. Already, he has released fresh takes on beloved tracks like 9ice’s Photocopy and Styl Plus’ timeless hit Olufunmi.
Cabasa also weighed in on the recent controversial remarks by international singer Akon, who claimed to have “discovered” Wizkid and taken credit for Afrobeats’ global explosion during a chat with Sherri Shepherd.
Reacting to Akon’s statement, Cabasa acknowledged his contribution to Afrobeats’ global exposure but stressed that the genre had already gained substantial traction before Akon’s involvement.
“Akon played his part in aiding the exportation of Afrobeats,” he admitted, but added that its success was the result of the hard work and vision of several Nigerian pioneers over the years.
Furthermore, the music executive highlighted the importance of Nigerians remaining central to the Afrobeats narrative. He emphasized the need for intentional gatekeeping—particularly in how the genre is defined and represented globally.
“While the creative aspect of the music can’t be gatekept, Nigerians need to always be at the forefront of the conversation,” he asserted.
ID Cabasa’s upcoming album is expected to be a thoughtful blend of nostalgia and innovation, aimed at reminding listeners of the genre’s roots while paving the way for its future.