The recent collaboration between American rapper Travis Scott and Nigerian artist Asake on the single “Active” has sparked a heated debate on social media, particularly among South Africans. The song, which incorporates elements of Amapiano—a genre deeply rooted in South African musical culture—has drawn mixed reaction with South Africans expressing their displeasure on social media. Read comments below,
The Roots of Amapiano
Amapiano, a subgenre of house music, originated in South Africa in the early 2010s. Known for its deep basslines, percussive rhythms, and soulful melodies, Amapiano quickly gained popularity across the country, eventually becoming a dominant force in the South African music scene. Pioneers like Kabza De Small, DJ Maphorisa, and MFR Souls played a crucial role in shaping and popularizing the sound.
Over the years, Amapiano has transcended borders, gaining recognition and appreciation in various parts of the world, particularly in West Africa and the UK. However, this international success has also led to concerns among South Africans about the commercialization and potential dilution of the genre.
“Active” and the Social Media Backlash
When Travis Scott and Asake released “Active,” many fans were excited to see what the fusion of these two artists could bring. However, the reaction from South Africans on social media has been less than enthusiastic. Critics argue that the track, while catchy, lacks the authentic essence of Amapiano and feels more like a commercialized version aimed at appealing to a broader, global audience.
Some South Africans have expressed frustration, feeling that international artists are capitalizing on Amapiano’s growing popularity without fully understanding or respecting its cultural significance. This sentiment is not new, as South Africans have previously voiced concerns about the genre being “watered down” or misrepresented by artists from other countries.
The Debate on Gatekeeping
The backlash against “Active” has reignited the ongoing debate about gatekeeping in the music industry, particularly regarding Amapiano. On one hand, some South Africans believe that gatekeeping is necessary to preserve the authenticity and cultural integrity of the genre. They argue that Amapiano, like any other cultural product, should be protected from exploitation and misrepresentation by those who are not part of its origin.
On the other hand, others argue that music is inherently a global language, meant to be shared and enjoyed by people from all walks of life. They see the international adoption of Amapiano as a testament to its universal appeal and believe that the genre should be allowed to evolve and grow beyond its South African roots.
Amapiano’s Future: Global vs. Local
The controversy surrounding “Active” highlights the tension between maintaining cultural ownership and embracing global recognition. As Amapiano continues to gain traction on the international stage, more artists from outside South Africa will likely experiment with the genre. The challenge for South Africans will be to find a balance between protecting the genre’s authenticity and allowing it to evolve in a way that honors its origins while embracing its global potential.
The debate over gatekeeping Amapiano reflects broader questions about cultural ownership, artistic freedom, and the impact of globalization on local music scenes. As the genre continues to grow, these discussions will likely persist, with South Africans at the forefront of ensuring that Amapiano remains true to its roots while also reaching new heights on the global stage.
