Afrobeats is a genre blending African rhythms with elements of jazz, funk, and traditional West African music. Over the past decade, has skyrocketed in global popularity. At the forefront of this movement are two Nigerian artists who have been instrumental in bringing Afrobeats to international audiences. Their influence has propelled the genre into the global spotlight.
Wizkid: The Pioneer of Modern Afrobeats
Wizkid, born Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, is often credited as one of the pioneers of the modern Afrobeats sound. Since his debut in 2010, Wizkid has consistently pushed the boundaries of the genre, blending it with pop, reggae, and hip-hop to create a sound that resonates with both African and global audiences.
His 2016 hit single “Ojuelegba” became a global anthem, earning praise from international superstars like Drake and Skepta, who later featured on a remix of the song. This collaboration marked a significant moment in the crossover of Afrobeats into mainstream Western music.
Wizkid’s influence continued to grow with his third studio album, Sounds from the Other Side (2017), which featured collaborations with global artists like Chris Brown, and Major Lazer. The album’s success helped cement Wizkid’s status as a global ambassador for Afrobeats, and his subsequent releases have only further solidified his position as one of the genre’s leading figures.
Burna Boy: The African Giant
While Wizkid laid the groundwork, Burna Boy, born Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, has taken Afrobeats to new heights. Known for his rich, deep voice and eclectic sound, Burna Boy’s music is a fusion of Afrobeats, dancehall, reggae, and American hip-hop, reflecting his diverse influences and experiences.
Burna Boy’s 2018 album Outside garnered international acclaim, but it was his 2019 album African Giant that truly marked his arrival on the global stage. The album, featuring hits like “Anybody” and “Gbona,” received a Grammy nomination and introduced a global audience to Burna Boy’s unique blend of Afro-fusion.
Burna Boy’s 2020 album Twice as Tall further solidified his status as a global superstar. The album won the Grammy Award for Best Global Music Album, making Burna Boy a household name across the world and highlighting the global impact of Afrobeats.
The Global Impact of Afrobeats
The rise of Wizkid and Burna Boy is a reflection of Afrobeats’ growing influence on the global music scene. The genre’s infectious rhythms, vibrant energy, and rich cultural roots have captivated audiences worldwide. This is leading to a surge in collaborations between African artists and international stars.
Beyond their own success, Wizkid and Burna Boy have paved the way for a new generation of African artists. Emerging African musicians are now enjoying unprecedented international exposure. Artists like Davido, Yemi Alade, and Mr Eazi are following in their footsteps. Hopefully, the can all further expand the reach of Afrobeats and solidify its place in the global music canon.
Conclusion
At Music Industry Weekly, we celebrate the transformative impact of Afrobeats on the global music landscape. Wizkid and Burna Boy have brought African music to the forefront of global consciousness. Additionally, they have redefined the possibilities for African artists on the world stage. Afrobeats continues to evolve and influence new genres. Its presence in the global music scene is set to grow even stronger. It will be an enduring force in contemporary music.
