Nigerian music icon Oladapo Oyebanjo, popularly known as D’banj, has stirred discussions within the Afrobeats community following his recent remarks on the Adesope Live podcast. When asked to name his top three Nigerian music stars of the moment, D’banj listed Rema, Davido, and Burna Boy—notably excluding WizKid, one of Afrobeats’ most globally recognized figures.
While D’banj didn’t offer a reason for leaving WizKid off his list, his choices came with generous praise. He commended Rema for his vibrancy, Davido for his down-to-earth persona and enduring work ethic, and Burna Boy for his calculated artistry and strong live performances.
“Shout out to Rema. I like his energy… Then there is Davido. People should learn from the way he carries himself, like he doesn’t have a penny, yet he’s so consistent. Burna Boy is too intentional, his live shows are amazing,” D’banj said during the podcast.
Praise for the Next Generation
D’banj’s endorsement of Rema holds particular weight given their recent public exchange of mutual respect. Earlier this month, during his O2 Arena concert in London, Rema publicly paid tribute to D’banj, acknowledging the veteran’s role in paving the way for the younger generation of Afrobeats stars.
“You were one of the first ones to bring Afrobeats to the UK. You and Don Jazzy held it down… I appreciate you for life. I love you from the bottom of my heart. If you never existed, I would have never existed,” Rema said on stage.
This moment of appreciation adds a layer of sincerity to D’banj’s selection, reflecting the generational bridge between Afrobeats pioneers and the new wave of artists redefining the genre on a global scale.
WizKid’s Omission: Oversight or Intentional?
While D’banj’s choices reflect his personal views and admiration for emerging excellence, the omission of WizKid, often regarded as one of the "Big Three" alongside Davido and Burna Boy, has drawn attention. Fans online are speculating whether the decision was a subtle shift in perspective or simply a matter of timing and personal preference.
Regardless of intent, the conversation underscores a broader dynamic in the Nigerian music industry—one that balances longevity and innovation, and where emerging stars like Rema are earning seats at the table long dominated by more established acts.
Afrobeats Continues Its Global Surge
D’banj’s comments highlight a growing recognition of the evolving faces of Afrobeats. As Nigerian music continues to dominate international charts and venues, artists like Rema, Davido, and Burna Boy are not only maintaining the genre’s momentum but also expanding its reach.
In celebrating these achievements, D’banj reaffirms his ongoing commitment to the culture he helped build—a culture that now spans continents, generations, and global stages.