Nigeria Nigerians React as Davido Becomes the Latest Artist to Abandon the Afrobeats Label

Davido has joined the ranks of prominent Nigerian artists like Wizkid and Fireboy DML in distancing himself from the Afrobeats label. In a recent tweet, he asserted his musical identity, stating, "If an African artiste sings pure R&B, sounding like SZA, Summerwalker, they put them under Afrobeats. If an African rapper raps like Drake, they still put them under Afrobeats. My sound is Afro Fusion."

This declaration stirred reactions online. Some supported Davido's assertion, emphasizing the need to break free from limiting genre labels. Others criticized him, arguing that being associated with Afrobeats had contributed to his fame.

The discussion expanded to encompass broader themes of identity and recognition within the global music industry. While some saw Afrobeats as an umbrella term for African artists, others viewed it as restrictive and called for acknowledgment of diverse musical influences.