Fireboy DML Criticizes Lack of Lyricism in Afrobeats, Highlights Unique Style

Nigerian artist Fireboy DML recently shared his perspective on the state of Afrobeats, suggesting that it often lacks in-depth lyricism. In an interview with BET, he emphasized that the genre is primarily about creating vibes.

Fireboy further explained that he carved out his own sub-genre within Afrobeats because he felt his sound was distinct and offered more depth than the mainstream.

He said, “The Afrobeats scene before I came in. It was built on vibes. But I realized that there was something lacking, and that was pure soul and lyricism in our music. That was what I brought into the game. That’s why I call it Afro-Life — it’s Afrobeats that has some depth to it.”

Fireboy credited his musical influences, which included a diverse range of artists from Elton John and James Blunt to Celine Dion, Wande Coal, and 2Baba, for shaping his unique style.