Dtimes Focus- The Afrobeats Big 3                                             

In today’s Afrobeats conversation, three names always come up first: Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy. They’ve become the unofficial “Big 3” of Nigerian music, not just because of their talent, but also because of how they’ve developed their craft, built powerful brands, and expanded Afrobeats beyond African borders.

They are called the “Afrobeats Big 3.” Not by accident or hype, but because each of them has walked a unique journey that has shaped Afrobeats into what it is today. Star boy wizzy, who turned minimalism into a global brand; OBO the champion, whose energy and visibility kept the genre in the spotlight; and Odogwu Burna the African Giant, whose unapologetic authenticity earned him Grammy gold and worldwide respect.

Together, they represent the story of Afrobeats.

Wizkid

Wizkid’s journey began as the young star boy from Surulere, Lagos, with a voice that sounded like summer itself. His early work with EME Records gave Nigeria classics like Holla at Your Boy, but it was his consistency and eye for international collaboration that set him apart. Today, Wizkid isn’t just an artist, he’s a fashion and lifestyle figure who made “cool” look effortless on the global stage.

Davido

Davido, the baddest who is loud, energetic, and impossible to ignore, has carried the spirit of Afrobeats with an unmatched energy. His brand is built on accessibility, the man who never shies away from showing his life, connecting with fans, and giving back to the community.
Davido’s strategy has always been consistency and visibility. His collaborations with Chris Brown, Nicki Minaj, and Popcaan showed his ability to blend Afrobeats with other genres without losing authenticity. Beyond music, his “30BG” movement became a cultural identity for young Nigerians and Africans at large.

Burna Boy

Burna Boy’s rise to the Big 3 wasn’t overnight. For years, he was the underrated genius with a unique sound. But with albums like Outside and African Giant, he demanded the world’s attention. Then came Twice As Tall, which earned him a Grammy, cementing his place as a true international force.
He is rewriting the African narrative on global stages like Madison Square Garden and the Grammys. His ability to fuse Afrobeats, reggae, and dancehall with unapologetic African identity made him the “voice of the continent” in a way that resonates worldwide.

The Big 3 may have different styles, but they all share one thing: the ability to make the world dance to Africa’s heartbeat.