African folk music is the heartbeat of the continent, resonating with a raw, authentic sound that tells African stories through indigenous rhythms and deeply rooted cultural elements. This unique genre captivates global audiences, drawing them into the rich tapestry of African life, from its celebrations to its struggles, triumphs, and sacred traditions. For decades, pioneering artists like Fela Anikulapo Kuti, Miriam Makeba, Richard Bona, Ali Farka Touré, Baaba Maal, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Youssou N’Dour, King Sunny Adé, Angelique Kidjo, Salif Keita, and Rokia Traoré have showcased the beauty of African folk music to the world. Their work established African music as an artistic form of storytelling that transcends language, carrying the spirit of Africa to international stages.
In the late 90s, however, Africa’s soundscape shifted as pop music rose to prominence, leading to the rise of icons like 2Face Idibia, Samini, P-Square, and D’banj. Today, this shift has evolved into the global dominance of Afrobeats and Amapiano, with artists like Wizkid, Burna Boy, Davido, Rema, Tyla, and Diamond Platinumz at the forefront, infusing popular music with African rhythms.
These genres have taken the world by storm, reflecting Africa’s youthful energy and blending traditional elements with a contemporary twist. Yet, as African music continues to capture international audiences, there is a growing sense that the world is craving the deeper, storytelling essence of African folk music. This genre provides a richer experience where musicianship is foregrounded, allowing artists to communicate Africa’s heritage in its most genuine form.
A revival of African folk music is emerging, particularly with the rise of Indigenous artists whose music now graces the soundtracks of African epic films on platforms like Netflix. B.R. Olorin, a rising Nigerian folk musician, embodies this return to authenticity with his debut EP Lágijù—meaning “In the Wilderness” in Yoruba. Through five evocative tracks, B.R. Olórin touches on themes of patience, perseverance, and spiritual hope, speaking to global audiences while honoring the African tradition of storytelling. His songs like “Èrò,” which reflects the experiences of Africans seeking new opportunities abroad, and “Òjò Ire,” a visually and sonically striking piece shot in the scenic hills of Akure, take listeners on a journey into the African experience. As folk music resurfaces as the “true African sound,” B.R. Olórin stands as one of the foremost new voices breathing life into this genre, embodying the enduring power of African folk music to connect and inspire people worldwide.
Listen to his freshly released EP,
Lágijù
WATCH OJO IRE VIDEO HERE
What videos from Lágijù
CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE TO B.R. OLORIN CHANNEL