An Appraisal of Semantic Metaphors in Nigerian Music Lyrics: A Case Study of Afrobeat Artists
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Background of the study
Afrobeat, a genre deeply rooted in Nigerian culture, has gained global acclaim not only for its rhythmic vitality but also for its rich lyrical content. Semantic metaphors in Afrobeat lyrics serve as powerful vehicles for cultural expression, enabling artists to convey complex social, political, and emotional themes in a layered and imaginative manner (Balogun, 2023). These metaphors transform everyday language into vivid imagery, resonating with audiences on multiple levels. Afrobeat artists frequently employ metaphoric language to critique societal issues, celebrate heritage, and construct identities. The interplay of literal and figurative meanings in these lyrics creates an enriched semantic landscape that challenges listeners to interpret and engage with the music actively (Chinwe, 2024; Adewale, 2025). This study examines the use of semantic metaphors in Afrobeat lyrics by analyzing a corpus of songs from leading artists. It explores how these metaphors function to communicate nuanced messages and contribute to the genre’s distinctive narrative style, thereby deepening our understanding of the cultural and ideological underpinnings of Afrobeat music.
Statement of the problem
While semantic metaphors are widely acknowledged as a key feature of Afrobeat music, systematic research on their function and impact remains limited. The lack of detailed analysis hinders our comprehension of how metaphoric expressions shape listener interpretations and influence cultural perceptions (Balogun, 2023). In the absence of robust scholarly inquiry, the transformative role of semantic metaphors in addressing social and political themes in Afrobeat lyrics is inadequately explored. This gap restricts the development of a comprehensive framework for analyzing lyrical content and its broader cultural implications. The present study aims to address this limitation by investigating the semantic structures of Afrobeat lyrics, providing insights into the dynamic interplay between language, culture, and music (Chinwe, 2024).
Objectives of the study:
1. To identify prominent semantic metaphors in Afrobeat lyrics.
2. To analyze the communicative functions of these metaphors.
3. To assess their impact on cultural and ideological expression.
Research questions:
1. What types of semantic metaphors are prevalent in Afrobeat music?
2. How do these metaphors enhance the lyrical narrative?
3. What cultural implications do they carry for Nigerian society?
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it provides an in-depth examination of semantic metaphors in Afrobeat music, shedding light on how figurative language enriches lyrical expression and cultural commentary. The findings will be valuable for musicologists, linguists, and cultural scholars by offering new perspectives on the role of metaphor in popular music (Adewale, 2025).
Scope and limitations of the study:
The study focuses exclusively on semantic metaphors in Afrobeat lyrics by Nigerian artists. It does not extend to other musical genres or non-lyrical forms of cultural expression.
Definitions of terms:
1. Semantic Metaphor: A figure of speech that transfers meaning from one concept to another based on similarity.
2. Afrobeat: A music genre combining traditional Nigerian music with elements of jazz, funk, and highlife.
3. Lyrics: The words of a song, particularly in the context of their artistic and cultural significance.
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