Nigerian Afrobeats star Tiwa Savage has revealed that some of the industry’s biggest names, including Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy, are among the artistes who inspire her musically.
Speaking in an interview with Rolling Stone Africa, Savage explained that her creative influence comes from a wide range of sources, spanning both local and international acts, as well as different genres of music.
She highlighted American R&B icon Brandy and jazz music as key influences, while also acknowledging the impact of her peers within the Afrobeats space.
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“I am inspired by so many people. Musically, I am inspired by Brandy… I also listen to Jazz… I am inspired by my peers,” she said. “You know, Wiz, Burna, David… everybody. I am inspired by so many people but I look up to God.”
Her comments underscore the collaborative and interconnected nature of the music industry, where even top-tier artists continue to draw inspiration from one another.
Despite being one of Africa’s most successful female musicians, Tiwa Savage’s acknowledgement of her peers reflects a broader culture of mutual influence that continues to shape Afrobeats globally.
However, her recent remarks also revisit an ongoing conversation about recognition and representation within the genre.
In 2025, Savage openly criticised the popular “Big 3” label, commonly used to refer to Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy as Nigeria’s leading global music exports.
At the time, she argued that the label, while acknowledging the achievements of the trio, inadvertently sidelines other influential voices in the industry, particularly female artists.
According to her, the structure of the music business often gives certain artistes more visibility due to access to resources, promotion, and international platforms.
Savage maintained that such disparities influence how frequently audiences hear certain names, thereby shaping public perception of who dominates the industry.
She stressed that conversations about the top tier of Afrobeats should be more inclusive and reflective of the genre’s diversity.
In particular, she pointed out that Tems deserves to be part of any discussion about leading global Afrobeats stars, citing her international success and impact.
Tems has, in recent years, achieved significant milestones, including global chart success and high-profile collaborations, further strengthening calls for broader representation in industry rankings.
Savage’s dual stance, praising her peers while also challenging the structure that elevates them above others, highlights a nuanced perspective.
On one hand, she acknowledges the talent and influence of Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy; on the other, she advocates for a more balanced narrative that recognises the contributions of other artistes, especially women.
The conversation around the “Big 3” has remained a recurring topic in Nigerian music discourse, often sparking debates among fans and industry insiders. While the trio’s global achievements are widely celebrated, critics argue that the label oversimplifies a rapidly evolving and diverse music scene.
Tiwa Savage’s comments add weight to these discussions, particularly given her status as a pioneer for female artists in Afrobeats.
Over the years, she has played a significant role in shaping the genre’s global appeal, breaking barriers, and paving the way for a new generation of female musicians.
Her emphasis on inspiration also speaks to the fluid nature of creativity in modern music.
Rather than existing in isolation, artists are constantly influenced by their environment, peers, and predecessors, a dynamic that continues to push Afrobeats to new heights on the global stage.
Ultimately, Savage’s remarks reflect both admiration and advocacy: admiration for the talents that inspire her, and advocacy for a more inclusive recognition of excellence within the industry.
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