https://shegze.com/article/309/VIDEO:-The-Culture-Is-Bigger-Than-the-Big-3-Right-Now-%E2%80%93-Davido-Shares-Insights-on-Afrobeats-Growth shegzeblog article news
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VIDEO: The Culture Is Bigger Than the Big 3 Right Now – Davido Shares Insights on Afrobeats Growth

Afrobeats superstar David Adeleke, widely known as Davido, recently shared his thoughts on the evolving landscape of Nigerian music during an interview on The Breakfast Club, a popular American radio show.


The discussion, which gained significant attention online on April 8, 2025, centered on the concept of the "Big 3" in Afrobeats—Davido, Wizkid, and Burna Boy—and the broader cultural movement that has propelled the genre to global heights.


In a candid conversation, Davido emphasized that the Afrobeats scene has grown far beyond the trio, spotlighting the contributions of younger artists and the need for unity to further elevate the genre.


Davido acknowledged that while he, Wizkid, and Burna Boy have been pivotal figures in Afrobeats' rise, the genre's current success is a collective effort.


He pointed to the emergence of new talents like Rema and Ayra Starr, who have made significant waves both locally and internationally.


Rema, for instance, has solidified his place in the global music scene with his 2022 hit "Calm Down," which became a chart-topping sensation, especially after a remix featuring Selena Gomez that reached number three on the Billboard Hot 100.


His achievements include being featured on the FIFA 21 soundtrack in 2020 and winning the MTV Video Music Award for Best Afrobeats Video.


Similarly, Ayra Starr, who joined Rema as a Pepsi brand ambassador in 2021, has become a rising star, contributing to the genre's expanding influence.


During the interview, Davido reflected on his relationships with Wizkid and Burna Boy, admitting that while they were once close, they no longer maintain personal ties.


However, he stressed that the focus should shift from individual rivalries to the collective growth of Afrobeats. "The culture is just so big, and the conversation is bigger than the Big 3 right now," he stated, underscoring the importance of supporting the genre as a whole.


He believes that the three of them recognize their role in advancing Nigerian music and are committed to its progress, regardless of personal dynamics.


Davido also touched on the possibility of a collaboration among the Big 3, a prospect that has long excited fans.


While he didn’t dismiss the idea, he hinted at external challenges, noting that some individuals benefit financially from the tensions between the artists. "Some people make money off us not being cool," he remarked, suggesting that behind-the-scenes dynamics might hinder such a project.


Despite this, Davido expressed openness to working together, recalling times when the trio had been on good terms.


The Afrobeats genre, as Davido highlighted, is experiencing a renaissance, echoing its historical peaks in the 1970s and 1980s when Nigerian music thrived with icons like Fela Kuti and Orlando Julius.


Today, the genre has cracked the global pop framework, with international music corporations establishing a presence in Lagos to tap into its potential.


However, challenges remain, including piracy and economic issues like inflation, which impact the industry's ability to convert cultural success into financial gains.


Despite these hurdles, the global appeal of Afrobeats continues to grow, with artists like Rema and Ayra Starr leading the charge alongside veterans like Davido.


As the genre evolves, Davido’s call for unity underscores the importance of collaboration in ensuring Afrobeats’ lasting impact on the world stage.


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