Orezi Reflects on Career Decline and Critiques the Current State of Afrobeats
Veteran Afrobeats artist Orezi has opened up about the reasons behind his career slowdown, offering candid insights in a recent interview on Trending on Hip TV. The “Shuperu” hitmaker revealed that his decision to step back from the competitive music scene was largely self-imposed.
“I became less ambitious, comfortable with where I am, and took myself out of the competition,” Orezi admitted, pointing to a period of self-reflection where he chose a more relaxed lifestyle in London, focused on prayer and personal peace. According to him, this shift came at the cost of his music career’s momentum.
Orezi contrasted his choices with artists like Davido, whom he praised for his relentless drive. “Davido hustles hard despite his success and wealth,” he said, highlighting the stark difference in their approaches.
During the interview, Orezi also delved into the changing soundscape of Afrobeats, expressing concern that the genre is straying from its roots. He criticized what he sees as a dilution of Afrobeats’ core identity, emphasizing that the music’s vibrant, party-centric nature is being lost.
“Some people will argue that the sound has evolved, but the essence—that we as Africans love to party and dance—is missing. If you eradicate the dance part of Afrobeats for the viby sound, you’re killing Afrobeats,” Orezi stated passionately.
He pointed out that current trends favor mid-tempo, laid-back sounds, which, while appealing to global audiences, risk overshadowing the genre’s original spirit. “If all the groovy Afrobeats songs are replaced with vibes, what will we be dancing to in clubs and parties?” he questioned.
Orezi’s observations align with a broader conversation within the industry about the globalisation of Afrobeats. As the genre has gained international traction, especially following the success of Wizkid’s Grammy-nominated Made In Lagos, more artists have leaned toward a polished, global pop sound. Acts like Omah Lay have further popularized introspective, mellow music, marking a notable departure from the high-energy hits that once dominated the scene.
Despite his lower profile in recent years, Orezi remains a respected voice in Afrobeats, remembered for his catchy hooks and energetic rhythms that helped shape the genre during its formative years. His reflections offer both a critique and a call to preserve the genre’s vibrant roots as Afrobeats continues to expand on the world stage.
