From Marlians to Wizkid FC, afrobeats fandoms are contributing to the globalization of the sound—even if some might consider them overly obsessive. When D’Banj crooned “Kokolets…1..2″ back in 2005, he started a movement that would galvanize into Koko Mansion, Koko water, and Koko garri—all extensions of his brand as an artist made possible by capitalizing on his loyal fanbase. Since the Kokolets, many Afrobeats artists have sought to give their fan bases identities in an attempt to solidify their legacy. There have been Korede Bello’s Belovers,”YBNL Gang” for fans of the rapper Olamide, Davido’s “HKN Gang,” Yemi Alade’s “Warriors,” Burna Boy’s “Outsiders” and most recently Naira Marley’s “Marlians.” These artists have fans who enjoy their work and enjoy stan wars, but do not necessarily consider the artist an extension of themselves, as is observed in stans.
SOURCE: OKAYAFRICA
More Stories
Local Footballers Protect Ghana’s Sea Turtles
Economic Pinch Forces Sudan’s Hand
Kenyan Stowaway Recuperating after Gruelling Flight
It’s Important to have Satellites Collecting Data about Africa, for Africa
African Innovation is Attracting More Interest from Global Investors
Was the Recent Vogue Cover The Best Way to Celebrate Black Beauty?
Kenya Selected for Listing in the Register of Good Safeguarding Practices
Malawi President Takes a Long Hard Look at His Cabinet
Africa’s Chief Health Leader Hopes to Put the Brain Drain into Reverse
Burkina Faso is the Latest West African State to Have a Coup
Las Vegas Resident Enjoys a Three-week Adventure through Egypt
Traveling along Namibia’s Skeleton Coast