Nigerian singer Ayra Starr has stirred fresh conversation in the Afrobeats scene by declaring Grammy-winning star Wizkid as the “king of Afrobeats.”
Her remarks come at a time when debates about the dominance of the genre’s leading acts, Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy, popularly known as the “Big 3”, continue to divide fans across social media.
In a recent interview with Complex, Ayra Starr explained her choice of featuring Wizkid on her hit single Gimme Dat. She said his presence on the track was deliberate, describing him as the only artist who could bring the right energy to the song.
“Nobody else could have been right on that song aside from Wizkid,” Ayra said. “Even just his sonics and the sound, the chorus pattern feels very Wizkid. It feels very like sexy Afrobeats. And everybody knows Wizkid is the king of sexy Afrobeats.”
The Mavin Records star added that Wizkid’s unique style and delivery have cemented his position as a leader in the global spread of Afrobeats. For her, his contribution to Gimme Dat captured the essence of what makes him stand out in the industry.
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Ayra’s comments quickly sparked reactions online. Fans of the “Big 3” have long debated who deserves the top spot in Afrobeats. Supporters of Wizkid welcomed her statement as validation of his influence, pointing to his Grammy win, international collaborations, and sold-out concerts as proof of his global dominance.
On the other hand, fans of Davido and Burna Boy argued that both stars have equally pushed the boundaries of Afrobeats, bringing their own unique impact to the genre. Davido is often celebrated for his consistency in delivering hit singles, while Burna Boy is praised for his fusion of Afrobeats with reggae, dancehall, and global sounds that earned him a Grammy award.
Still, Ayra Starr’s bold declaration adds another layer to the conversation, highlighting how younger artists in the scene view the contributions of the genre’s pioneers.
Since breaking out with her debut EP in 2021, Ayra Starr has carved a name for herself with hits like Away, Rush, and Sability. Her collaborations with international acts and her nomination for a Grammy have positioned her as one of the rising global voices of Afrobeats. Featuring Wizkid on Gimme Dat further strengthens her credibility while linking her music to one of the genre’s most respected figures.
While the debate over who truly reigns supreme among the “Big 3” may never be settled, Ayra Starr’s endorsement underscores Wizkid’s continuing influence on younger artists and the sound of Afrobeats itself.
For now, fans will likely continue to argue, but one thing remains clear: the “Big 3” have all shaped Afrobeats into the global force it is today, and their impact will keep fueling debates for years to come.
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