Afrobeat
/ˈæf.roʊ.biːt/noun
A style of popular music combining West African musical traditions with jazz, funk, and other modern genres.
Did you know?Nigerian musician Fela Kuti helped define Afrobeat in the 1960s and 1970s, using extended performances and politically charged lyrics to challenge military rule and corruption.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Latin
Latin
Āfrĭca
“The Roman name for the region of Africa, probably derived from the name of a local North African people; the deeper origin is uncertain.”
Old English
Old English
bēatan
“To strike, beat, or pound.”
Middle English
English
bete
“To strike repeatedly; the source of modern English beat.”
19th Century
English
Afro-
“A combining form meaning African or relating to Africa.”
1960s
English
Afrobeat
“A developing West African musical style blending highlife, jazz, funk, and traditional rhythms.”
Modern English
English
Afrobeat
“A globally influential genre associated especially with Fela Kuti, Tony Allen, and politically conscious Nigerian music.”