Afrobeats has grown from its roots in West Africa, especially Nigeria and Ghana, into a globally popular music genre. The genre’s rise is attributed to early pioneers like Fela Kuti & other legends who laid the groundwork, and contemporary stars such as Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido, who have brought Afrobeats to international fame. Since the late 2010s, Afrobeats has gained significant mainstream success, making it one of Africa’s major cultural exports.
These pioneers not only broke boundaries with their distinct sounds but have also become the guiding force for a new generation of artists eager to leave their own mark. From Fela Kuti’s revolutionary Afrobeat to 2Baba’s timeless hits, the influence of these trailblazers runs deep, inspiring today’s rising stars to innovate while staying rooted in the genre’s rich legacy. As the Afrobeats movement continues to evolve, these icons remain its heartbeat, pushing the culture forward and shaping the future of African music.
The Pioneers: Fela Kuti and the Birth of Afrobeats
Fela Kuti, in the 1970s, pioneered Afrobeats by blending traditional African rhythms with jazz, funk, and highlife, creating a unique sound that served as a powerful medium for social and political commentary. His influence on modern Afrobeats is profound, establishing it as a genre with a message rooted in boldness, charisma, and innovation, and showing how African music can inspire change.
Fela Kuti’s spirit of rebellion and cultural pride remains influential in contemporary Afrobeats. Burna Boy’s 2019 album African Giant reflects this legacy by addressing African identity and colonialism. Today stars like Rema continue this tradition, blending Afrobeats with modern global sounds while staying true to its roots.
The Global Ambassadors: Wizkid, Burna Boy, Davido, Olamide, Ayra Starr, Tems, Tiwa Savage etc.
Wizkid, Burna Boy, Tiwa Savage and other Afrobeats stars have become the faces of Afrobeats on the global stage. Their international success has not only validated the genre’s global appeal but has also opened doors for emerging stars. Wizkid’s collaborations with artists like Drake, Beyoncé, and Justin Bieber have expanded Afrobeats’ reach, demonstrating that African music can sit comfortably at the top of the charts globally . Wizkid’s Grammy award-winning collaboration with Beyoncé on Brown Skin Girl was a landmark moment for Afrobeats, showcasing the genre’s ability to intersect with mainstream global music .
Tiwa Savage, often called the Queen of Afrobeats, has used her influence to empower young female artists. Her collaborations and mentorship of stars like Ayra Starr and Tems testify to how established artists are fostering the next generation. Burna Boy, with his Grammy win and continued domination of global charts, has also served as an inspiration for artists such as BNXN, who aims to carve out his international success.
The Young Guns: Emerging Stars Inspired by Legends
The influence of these Afrobeats legends is unmistakable in the rise of artists like Rema, Fireboy DML, and Asake. These young talents have taken the genre in new directions, incorporating elements of trap, R&B, and pop into Afrobeats, yet the imprint of their predecessors is ever-present. Rema, for instance, frequently acknowledges the influence of Donjazzy & other legends, citing their early Afrobeats works and achievements as an inspiration to pursue music. Similarly, Fireboy DML’s music reflects a deep appreciation for Olamide’s role in his career.
Tems, another fast-risen star, has garnered international attention with collaborations alongside Drake and Wizkid, and credits Tiwa Savage as a trailblazer for women in the genre. The support and encouragement from these legends create a mentorship ecosystem that allows emerging stars to flourish and push the genre forward.
In essence, Afrobeats legends have paved the way for future stars by creating a rich, diverse musical landscape that continues to inspire new generations of artists. Their groundbreaking sounds, global influence, and dedication to pushing the genre’s boundaries have set a strong foundation for emerging talents to build upon. As these future stars rise, they carry the legacy forward, ensuring that Afrobeats remains a powerful and evolving force in the global music scene.