Nigerian music star opens up about his current relationship with Wizkid and Burna Boy, praises rising talents like Rema and Ayra Starr
LAGOS, Nigeria – April 9, 2025 – Afrobeats superstar David Adeleke, better known as Davido, has offered rare insight into his evolving relationships with fellow Nigerian music heavyweights Wizkid and Burna Boy, while calling attention to the genre’s growth beyond the traditional “Big 3” narrative.
During a recent appearance on The Breakfast Club, a popular U.S. radio show, Davido revealed that while he once shared personal connections with both Wizkid and Burna Boy, that dynamic no longer exists today. However, he emphasized that there’s no animosity—just a mutual understanding that Afrobeats has transcended the trio’s dominance.
“I don’t have a personal relationship with them [Wizkid and Burna Boy]. I did at some point in time,” Davido said during the interview. “The conversation is bigger than the ‘Big 3’ right now; there’s Rema, there’s Ayra Starr and other artists. Right now, I think the three of us understand that it is bigger than us.”
Afrobeats: From ‘Big 3’ to Global Movement
For years, Davido, Wizkid, and Burna Boy have been widely regarded as the titans of Afrobeats, credited with propelling the genre onto the global stage through sold-out concerts, chart-topping records, and international collaborations. The “Big 3” label has become a familiar shorthand among fans and media alike.
But Davido now says the conversation is shifting—and rightly so. With newer artists like Rema earning chart placements on the Billboard Hot 100 and Ayra Starr performing at major festivals in Europe and the U.S., the Afrobeats wave is expanding in reach and influence.
“Afrobeats is winning. It’s not about just three people anymore,” Davido stated. “There are artists now doing things we couldn’t even imagine five years ago.”
Rema and Ayra Starr: Leading a New Generation
Among the names Davido singled out, Mavin Records stars Rema and Ayra Starr stand out as the face of the genre’s new generation. Rema, whose global hit “Calm Down” with Selena Gomez charted internationally for months, has cemented his place as a global phenomenon. Ayra Starr, known for her ethereal voice and fashion-forward persona, has also gained critical acclaim with her album 19 & Dangerous and collaborations with artists across Africa and Europe.
By acknowledging their impact, Davido affirmed what many fans have observed over the past two years—Afrobeats is no longer defined by its pioneers alone.
No Bad Blood, Just a Shift in Focus
Despite speculation over past rivalries and online spats, Davido clarified that there is no bad blood between him and the other members of the Big 3. While personal relationships may have changed, he implied that a mutual respect remains—and that all three artists now see the bigger picture.
“We are all focused on our own paths,” he said. “And I think we understand that the real win is the global movement of Afrobeats, not who gets the most streams or awards.”
His comments suggest a maturity and shift in perspective as the genre grows into one of Africa’s biggest cultural exports.
On Tiwa Savage: ‘My Sister for Life’
Davido also addressed rumors about a fallout with fellow Nigerian superstar Tiwa Savage, emphasizing that their bond remains strong despite any disagreements. He described their relationship as sibling-like and rooted in love and respect.
“Tiwa Savage is my sister for life,” he said. “I love her and her child—we are family. Our fight is just like a brother and sister’s fight. I will never allow anything to happen to her.”
The clarification comes after speculation online suggested tension between the two, following a series of cryptic social media posts late last year. Davido’s reassurance appears to put those rumors to rest, reinforcing the close-knit nature of Nigeria’s top music acts despite occasional misunderstandings.
A Year of Evolution for Davido
Davido’s remarks come during a year of personal and professional evolution. After the success of his 2023 album Timeless, which featured global hits like “Unavailable” and “Feel”, the artist has shifted toward collaborations, philanthropy, and expanding his music label, DMW (Davido Music Worldwide).
Earlier this year, he signed two promising artists to the label and hinted at working on a joint EP with international artists, aiming to blend Afrobeats with genres like amapiano, dancehall, and R&B.
The 31-year-old singer has also used his platform to champion youth causes in Nigeria, including education and mental health awareness, further solidifying his role as not just a musician, but a cultural influencer.
Afrobeats’ Future Is Collective
Davido’s interview has sparked widespread discussion among fans and industry insiders about the future of Afrobeats and the importance of collaboration over competition. Many social media users praised his candidness and the recognition he gave to younger artists.
“This is the kind of leadership we need in Afrobeats,” one fan tweeted. “Davido acknowledging that it’s bigger than the Big 3 shows growth.”
Others called for more joint projects between generations, suggesting that bridging the old and new could further propel the genre’s global success.
With Davido, Wizkid, Burna Boy, and a growing roster of young talent leading the charge, the future of Afrobeats looks more expansive—and unified—than ever.
