Nigerian Grammy-winning artist Temilade Openiyi, widely known as Tems, has come to the defense of the Afrobeats genre, emphasizing its role as a form of escapism rather than a vehicle for social critique. Her remarks were made in response to Jamaican reggae icon Buju Banton, who recently expressed skepticism about the substance of Afrobeats during an episode of the "Shopping The Sneakers" podcast.

Banton criticized the genre, suggesting that it lacks depth and would eventually fade away. In her counterargument, Tems acknowledged Banton's perspective but clarified that Afrobeats serves a distinct purpose in Nigeria. “I understand where Buju Banton is coming from. Reggae is not Afrobeats, and Afrobeats in Nigeria is specifically for escapism; that’s the purpose of Afrobeats,” she stated.

Tems’ comments highlight the cultural significance of Afrobeats, which has gained international acclaim for its infectious rhythms and vibrant energy. As the genre continues to rise in popularity, it remains a crucial outlet for many seeking relief from the challenges of everyday life.