Olamide Stirs Debate, Declares Wizkid the Greatest Afrobeats Artist After Fela, Responds to Backlash

Nigerian music sensation Olamide recently ignited a fresh round of debate in the Afrobeats community after making a bold statement about his peers. In a social media post that quickly went viral, Olamidé, often regarded as one of the pillars of modern Nigerian music, expressed his view that Wizkid stands as the greatest Afrobeats artist to emerge after the legendary Fela Kuti.

The post, which seemed casual at first glance, sparked a heated conversation online, with fans and critics alike dissecting every word. Olamide’s message read: “Honestly, this whole lengthy 3-way conversation is pretty much whatever. You can't diminish anyone's greatness, whether they're A-list, B-list, or anything else. Feel free to believe what you want or support whoever you choose; there's plenty of room in the sky for everyone. However, one thing to remember is that Burna, David, and Wiz aren't narrow-minded enough to get offended by someone else's opinion or perspective. That's part of why they've reached where they are today.”

The statement was met with a mix of applause, criticism, and playful banter, reflecting the passion and intensity that fans bring to discussions about the country’s music scene. Many supporters of Wizkid hailed Olamide’s comment as a well-deserved recognition of the “Starboy” singer’s immense influence and contribution to Afrobeats on the global stage. Others, however, questioned the comparison, citing artists like Burna Boy and Davido as equally deserving of the title of greatest Afrobeats artist of their generation.

What stands out about Olamide’s message is the balance he strikes between expressing his opinion and encouraging respect for others’ perspectives. While the internet thrives on polarizing statements and heated arguments, Olamide consciously avoided creating unnecessary conflict. Instead, he highlighted the idea that the achievements of artists like Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Davido are built not only on talent but also on the ability to rise above petty disagreements. By acknowledging that these stars are “not narrow-minded enough to get offended by someone else’s opinion or perspective,” Olamide reinforced the notion that maturity and humility play a crucial role in sustaining a long-lasting career in the music industry.

The debate surrounding who is the greatest Afrobeats artist after Fela Kuti is not a new one, but it continues to capture the attention of fans worldwide. Fela Kuti, often called the father of Afrobeats, revolutionized Nigerian music and left an indelible mark on the genre with his revolutionary sound, electrifying performances, and fearless socio-political commentary. Following in his footsteps, artists like Wizkid, Burna Boy, Davido, Tiwa Savage, and many others have carried the torch, bringing Nigerian music to international audiences and earning recognition from global award bodies, streaming platforms, and collaborations with international stars.

Wizkid, who started his career as a teenage sensation, has seen an unprecedented rise in popularity over the past decade. From his early hits like “Holla at Your Boy” to his Grammy-winning collaboration on Beyoncé’s The Lion King: The Gift, Wizkid has continually showcased versatility, innovation, and a unique ability to blend African sounds with global music trends. His influence stretches beyond Nigeria, with millions of fans across Africa, Europe, America, and Asia. For many, Olamide’s assertion validates the impact Wizkid has had on the genre and the world music scene at large.

However, the response from fans and social media users reflects the highly competitive nature of Afrobeats. Supporters of Burna Boy, for example, highlight his fusion of Afrobeat, reggae, dancehall, and pop, coupled with his politically conscious lyrics and critically acclaimed albums. Meanwhile, fans of Davido point to his numerous chart-topping hits, international collaborations, and impressive social media presence. The debate, as it often does, devolved into a mix of passionate arguments, humorous memes, and playful jabs at each artist’s fan base.

Despite the buzz, Olamide’s response demonstrates a thoughtful perspective that many believe is missing in celebrity discourse today. Instead of engaging in fan-driven rivalry, he chose to remind people that greatness in music is not a zero-sum game. The sky, as he aptly put it, has room for everyone. This perspective challenges the usual narrative that compares artists solely based on popularity or commercial success, emphasizing instead the value of respect, acknowledgment, and artistic integrity.

Industry observers have noted that Olamide’s remarks could have a lasting impact on how artists interact publicly about their peers. In an era where social media amplifies every statement and misinterpretation can spark viral controversies, a message promoting mutual respect is both timely and commendable. His approach underscores that one can celebrate the accomplishments of others without diminishing anyone else’s contributions—a principle that can foster a healthier, more collaborative music ecosystem.

Moreover, Olamide’s comments shed light on the evolving nature of Afrobeats as a global phenomenon. The genre, which once had a primarily Nigerian audience, now enjoys worldwide recognition, with artists regularly performing at international festivals, winning prestigious awards, and collaborating with mainstream global acts. By placing Wizkid in the context of greatness after Fela, Olamide indirectly acknowledges the genre’s growth and the international platforms that these artists have claimed for African music.

Social media, as always, played a central role in amplifying this conversation. From Twitter threads dissecting every word to Instagram posts and TikTok videos offering humorous takes, fans ensured that the discussion reached audiences far beyond Nigeria’s borders. Music critics and bloggers also weighed in, analyzing Olamide’s choice of words and examining how his statement reflects broader industry dynamics. While some critics dismissed it as a typical celebrity opinion, others praised him for encouraging constructive dialogue rather than fueling divisive comparisons.

In many ways, Olamide’s post serves as a reminder that debates about artistic greatness are inherently subjective. What resonates with one fan may not hold the same weight for another. Some prioritize lyrical depth and social commentary, while others focus on commercial success, versatility, or the ability to influence culture. Olamide’s nuanced approach acknowledges these differences while emphasizing that respect and admiration can coexist with personal preferences.

Ultimately, the conversation sparked by Olamide reinforces the enduring influence of Afrobeats as a genre that transcends borders, languages, and cultures. By recognizing Wizkid’s achievements while also acknowledging the contributions of Burna Boy, Davido, and others, he has highlighted the collaborative spirit that continues to drive the genre forward. His message serves as a call for unity among fans, encouraging them to celebrate excellence without resorting to divisiveness.

As the debate continues online, one thing remains clear: Olamide’s words have sparked not just a conversation about who is the greatest Afrobeats artist after Fela, but also a broader reflection on respect, humility, and the ways artists can lift each other up in a competitive industry. Whether fans agree or disagree with his opinion, his perspective offers a refreshing take in an age often dominated by online outrage and rivalry.

For now, the sky remains vast, and there is room for every star to shine. Olamide’s message is simple yet profound: greatness is not a finite resource, and celebrating the accomplishments of one does not diminish another. In a world that loves to compare and critique, that may be one of the most important reminders for both fans and artists alike.