If you ask many Afrobeat fans who is the King of Afrobeats, they would most likely mention Burna Boy. Even Davido that declared himself the king of Afrobeats in his musical video – Unavailable, would agree in his heart of hearts that Burna Boy is killing it and deserves the throne more than anyone, including his arc-rival Wizkid. And the reasons for his surrender is not farfetched. From his Grammy Award win, to sold-out stadiums across the world and topping streaming platforms, Burna Boy is the leader of the pack. On the ladies’ side, most Nigerians would give the title to Tiwa Savage but quickly add that her throne is about to be taken if not taken already.
They would reference the emergence on the international scene of Tems: who in her relatively short career has received many accolades that are still fantasies to Tiwa. Tems awards includes a Grammy Award, two NAACP Image Awards, three BET Awards and three Soul Train Music Awards. She also co-wrote the song “Lift Me Up” by Rihanna, which earned her nominations for the Oscars for Best Original Song, and the Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song. There is also Ayra Star who declared in a Headies Awards that she is the future, just as Rema did a year earlier.
The entertainment industry is arguably the most competitive stage that showcases human creativity. Hence, for anyone to occupy the top of a chart, streaming service or go viral in any online platform like YouTube, that individual must have created something outstanding. However, awards can be controversial and not paint the true picture of what is on ground. They can also be lopsided because of the demography of those who spend more time online or the record label with more influence. Like the controversy about the greatest footballer or basketballer of all time, the younger population will easily vote the star they experienced emotionally.
The main reason why Tiwa Savage is my pick for the Queen of Afrobeat, is her talent, tenacity and her ability to re-invent herself. Tiwa Savage could be called a contemporary of Tuface, Dbanj, Yemi Alade and Psquare, but today, she is the only one among the mentioned who is still actively using her gift and giving the younger generation a run for their creativity. And to crown it, her new songs and collaboration are on point. I recently got hooked on Gbese, her collaboration with Majeeed. She is also on top of the streaming charts for Nigerian musical queens. As I was writing this piece, I reminded myself of the work that is needed to get to the top and be stationed there. So, I greet Tiwa Savage – the Queen of Afrobeats. And I wish her many more years at the top.
Ata Ukuta – Editor, Towncryyer