In a recent interview on The Breakfast Club, Nigerian Afrobeats icon David Adeleke, globally recognized as Davido, shared his insightful perspective on the prevalent discourse surrounding the “Big 3” of Nigerian music – a triumvirate typically comprising himself, Wizkid, and Burna Boy. Davido articulated a belief that the Afrobeats genre has undergone a significant expansion, transcending the confines of this long-standing categorization.
Acknowledging his past camaraderie with both Wizkid and Burna Boy, Davido clarified that their current interpersonal dynamics do not involve close personal relationships. However, he emphasized a crucial point: the burgeoning stature of Afrobeats necessitates a shift in focus from individual rivalries to a collective pursuit of the genre’s continued advancement and global recognition.
Davido astutely observed the emergence and ascendance of a new wave of talented Nigerian artists, citing the prominent examples of Rema and Arya Starr. He underscored the sheer abundance of burgeoning talent within the Nigerian music landscape, asserting that the narrative should no longer solely revolve around the established trio. This acknowledgment of the evolving ecosystem highlights Davido’s understanding of the dynamic nature of the music industry.
Expressing a sentiment of unity and shared purpose, Davido conveyed his belief that the “Big 3” are collectively aware of the genre’s expansive growth. He suggested that all three artists recognize the importance of prioritizing the overall development of Afrobeats, indicating a potential alignment in their broader vision for Nigerian music on the global stage.
Addressing the frequently asked question regarding a potential collaborative musical project involving the three megastars, Davido offered a nuanced response. While refraining from definitively ruling out such a possibility in the future, he alluded to underlying complexities and external influences that could impede such a collaboration at present.
Davido astutely pointed to the existence of individuals within their respective entourages or the broader industry who might benefit financially or otherwise from the perpetuation of perceived discord among the three artists. This candid observation sheds light on the intricate web of relationships and vested interests that can sometimes shape the dynamics between prominent figures in the entertainment world.
Despite these potential obstacles, Davido offered a glimmer of hope, recalling instances where he, Wizkid, and Burna Boy have shared amicable moments. This suggests that while current personal relationships may not be deeply intertwined, the possibility of future collaboration is not entirely beyond the realm of possibility, contingent on navigating the existing complexities.
Ultimately, Davido’s commentary underscores a pivotal moment in the evolution of Afrobeats. His perspective advocates for a broader recognition of the diverse talent contributing to the genre’s global ascent, urging a move away from a singular focus on the “Big 3” towards a more inclusive and collaborative vision for the future of Nigerian music.
His remarks serve as a call for unity and a celebration of the collective growth of Afrobeats, suggesting that the genre’s burgeoning success is a testament to the contributions of numerous artists, extending far beyond the accomplishments of its established icons.
