If you pride yourself on being up-to-date with the latest musical trends, you’ve probably heard the term “Afro-Swing”. And if you haven’t, don’t worry, we’re about to make you the coolest person in the room at your next music-related conversation.
So, what’s Afro-Swing, you ask? Think of it as that super chill cousin of Afrobeats who grew up in London, got hooked on UK grime, and decided to mix the two with a sprinkle of hip-hop swagger. This resulted in a genre that’s smooth and full of irresistibly danceable rhythms.
The Birth of Afroswing
Afro-Swing is believed to have emerged from the UK’s music scene, where second-generation Africans were blending their heritage with the gritty, high-energy vibes of British grime and Hip-Hop.
It’s got everything: the heavy bass lines that make your car speakers shake, sing-along melodies that stick in your head like gum on a hot sidewalk, and African-inspired rhythms that can get even the most rhythmically-challenged person tapping their feet.
But wait, before you write it off as just another fusion genre, Afro-Swing is more than just a mashup. We like to think of it as a perfect bridge between continents, blending the warmth of African beats with the grit of UK urban culture. It’s music that makes you want to dance and contemplate moving to Lagos or London, depending on the weather.
From Alte to Afro-Swing: The Rebranding of a Movement?
It’s possible that Afro-Swing’s roots trace back to Alte music—a genre born from Nigeria’s alternative music scene. The Alte movement wasn’t just about the music; it was a full lifestyle package, complete with bold fashion, experimental visuals, and a strong sense of individuality.
However, as Afro-Swing gained momentum, it may have been a deliberate choice by artists to rebrand the sound, shedding the broader lifestyle associations of Alte. By naming it Afro-Swing, the focus shifted squarely to the music itself, making it more accessible and less niche while distancing it from the alternative subculture’s eclectic aesthetics.
What Does Afro-Swing Sound Like?
Afro-Swing songs often have themes of love, success, and sometimes a bit of cheeky braggadocio. After all, what’s a good genre without a little “look at me, I’ve made it“?
Here’s a playlist that can give you a proper feel for what it sounds like: https://soundcloud.com/soundcloud-uk/sets/uk-afrobeats-fusion-afroswing
Leading the Afro-Swing Charge
Let’s talk about the artists making Afro-Swing the star of everyone’s playlists. Wizkid, the guy who’s already dominating global charts with Afrobeats is also a key player here. Afterall, he has told us repeatedly he’s no longer just an Afrobeats artist, he’smuch bigger than that.
Then there’s Omah Lay, whose vocals make everything sound like a love letter. These are artists you listen to when you need a feel-good bop that makes you believe in love again (or at least makes you forget your ex for three minutes).
Other artists like J Hus and Kojo Funds have also been pivotal in shaping this sound. They bring a rawness and energy that’s unmistakably British but infused with African roots. Listening to their tracks feels like being in a room where cultures collide in the best way possible.
Why is This Afro-Fusion Genre Getting More Popular?
One word: relatability.
Afro-Swing resonates with a generation navigating dual identities. For African kids growing up in the UK, it’s the soundtrack that feels like home. For listeners back in Africa, it’s a fresh take on familiar rhythms. And for the rest of us, it’s just really, really good music.
Plus, it is perfect for any occasion. Need something to hype you up on your morning commute? Afro-Swing. Planning a weekend party? Afro-Swing. Trying to impress that crush who’s “into music”? You guessed it—Afro-Swing.
Is Afro-Swing Here to Stay?
In the ever-evolving world of African music, predicting trends is as tricky as finding a decent parking spot in Lagos. But here’s the thing: Afro-Swing may be more than just a trend. It represents the voice of a generation of artists who refuse to fit into a box, and that, in my opinion, is a movement, not just a moment.
So, whether you’re an Afrobeats veteran or someone who just discovered Wizkid last week (no judgment), Afro-Swing is worth diving into. Put on some Omah Lay, let the bassline hit, and prepare to fall in love with the genre that’s taking over. Just don’t blame us if you start dancing in public. That’s on you.