Rick Ross Declares Africa's Global Music Moment Long Overdue
Rick Ross, in a CNN interview, declared Africa's global music influence, especially Afrobeats, as an inevitable and long-overdue cultural shift. He credited Fela Kuti as a foundational pioneer, likening his impact to James Brown's on hip-hop. Ross highlighted his early collaborations with African artists like P-Square and Yemi Alade before the genre's mainstream rise. He revealed a new collaborative album through Maybach Music Group and envisioned a supergroup with icons like Burna Boy. Additionally, Ross is exploring business opportunities in Africa, including real estate in Zimbabwe. He emphasized that this is sustained cultural momentum, not a temporary trend.
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In a CNN interview, rapper Rick Ross asserts that Africa's dominance in global music, particularly through Afrobeats, is an inevitable and long-overdue cultural force, not a fleeting trend, citing pioneers like Fela Kuti and detailing his cross-continental collaborations and investments.
Historical Foundations and Inevitability
Ross traced the current Afrobeats explosion to pioneers such as Fela Kuti, whose funk-infused music laid foundational work decades ago. He compared Kuti's influence to James Brown's impact on early hip-hop, noting, "So much hip hop was inspired by James Brown... to me that's what Fela was." Ross emphasized that this global recognition is "only the beginning."
Early Cross-Continental Collaborations
Before Afrobeats mainstream popularity, Ross integrated African sounds into his work:
Featured on the 2012 remix of "Beautiful Onyinye" with Nigerian duo P-Square, an organic early collaboration.
During his "Maybach Music era" (2009-2014), incorporated jazz and funk elements aligning with African styles.
Discussions with Akon deepened his interest, leading to partnerships with artists like Yemi Alade, praised for her energy and style.
Collaborated with Wale and Stonebwoy across genres, expanding his African musical ties.
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Forthcoming Africa-Focused Album
Ross announced that Maybach Music Group is developing a collaborative album with African artists and producers, in progress for over 12 months. He shared a dream supergroup vision featuring himself, Bob Marley, Fela Kuti, and Burna Boy, describing it as "king level."
Business Ventures and Cultural Ties
Beyond music, Ross visited Zimbabwe, receiving a hero's welcome and expressing interest in property investment. He performed at South Africa's Durban Music Fest and visited underserved communities, reinforcing Africa as a hub for long-term opportunity and cultural connection.
Sustained Momentum, Not a Moment
Ross stressed that Africa's musical impact represents lasting momentum, citing concert energies and fan love as evidence. He stated, "It's an amazing place and just warming up," underscoring a continuous cultural evolution.
