The revelation came during a recent interview on Hot 97 FM, where Starr was asked to identify the Afrobeats acts she believes have played pivotal roles in shaping the sound and expanding its global reach.
“My Afrobeats Big 3 would be Tiwa Savage, Wizkid, and Rema. My solid Big 3,” Starr told the station, emphasizing that her selections reflect both influence and artistic innovation.
Starr highlighted Tiwa Savage’s role as a trailblazing female figure whose success has paved the way for women in an industry long dominated by male performers. She praised Wizkid for his global impact and Rema for bringing a fresh, experimental sound that resonates with younger audiences.
Her remarks add a new perspective to the ongoing conversation around the so-called “Big 3” of Afrobeats—a label traditionally used to refer to Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy, based largely on commercial success and international visibility.
The label has not gone without controversy. In September 2025, Tiwa Savage publicly questioned its relevance, noting that it often overlooks other major contributors to the genre, including Yemi Alade, Flavour, Asake, and Tems. She attributed the label’s persistence to the highly active fanbases of those traditionally included in the “Big 3.”
By offering her own interpretation, Starr’s comments underscore the evolving landscape of Afrobeats, where fresh voices and diverse contributions continue to shape discussions around the genre’s most influential figures.