By Ayo Onikoyi

The ongoing debate over ownership of the Amapiano genre has intensified between South Africa and Nigeria, reaching a climax as the AFCON semi-final unfolded. The match between the two nations ended in a draw, with Nigeria securing victory in a thrilling penalty shootout. Amidst this football rivalry, Edo state native and Take Alert crooner, Sammie Cross, has made a significant musical statement.

In the wake of the AFCON drama, Sammie Cross has released a 5-track Amapiano EP titled “Skyline.” This follows his 2023 release, “Sparking,” and is set to add more fuel to the discussion around the genre’s roots and influences. Amapiano, a genre characterized by its unique blend of house music, jazz, and other African sounds, has become a cultural phenomenon with a global impact.

Interestingly, Sammie Cross’s EP arrives on the heels of South African artist Tyla’s Grammy win over Nigeria’s acclaimed Davido and Burna Boy. The competition and cross-cultural exchange in the music scene continue to fuel conversations about the global reach and dominance of Amapiano.

As artists from different African nations contribute to the evolution of Amapiano, it remains a shared cultural heritage, transcending geographical boundaries. The genre’s popularity has created a platform for artists like Sammie Cross to showcase their talent and bring diverse elements to the Amapiano landscape.

The release of “Skyline” by Sammie Cross not only adds another layer to the ongoing discourse about Amapiano’s ownership but also highlights the interconnectedness of African music, blending influences from various regions. The timing, coinciding with the AFCON spectacle and Grammy results, adds an extra dimension to the narrative.

In the midst of this musical debate, Sammie Cross’s contribution stands as a testament to the genre’s ability to unite diverse influences and create a harmonious fusion of sounds. As Amapiano continues to evolve and captivate audiences worldwide, the question of ownership remains complex, reflecting the rich diversity of the African music landscape.