Afrobeat is typically seen as a combination of genres fused into one. It rose to popularity in Africa in the 1970s, pioneered by Fela Kuti, a Nigerian. Afrobeat is known for it's big, varied bands and energetic performances- many of the pieces aren't ever performed the same way twice as each relies on improvisation and going with the feeling.
Lyrics are essential for afrobeat music. It's very heavily influenced by politics, and many of the musicians have been punished for expressing their so-called 'radical views'. When Fela Kuti released his album Zombie (an attack on the Nigerian army), the government attacked his home, destroying his studio and instruments and killing his mother. Although Kuti was never killed by them, it's thought that his death was sped up by the many beatings he received. Despite the attempts to silence him, however, Kuti kept going, and his legacy lives on- there's even a musical about him!
Tony Allen is another famous afrobeat musician. He was once described by Brian Eno as 'perhaps the greatest drummer who has ever lived'. He was also closely connected to Fela Kuti; the two worked together on many songs.
Finally, D'banj is a more recent Nigerian afrobeat artist, as well as being a harmonica player. Possibly his most-known work is Oliver Twist, a fusion of Afrobeat and electric dance music.
Asiko- Tony Allen
Oliver Twist- D'Banj
Zombie- Fela Kuti