D’banj names Rema, Davido, Burna Boy as top three, sparks Wizkid backlash

Afrobeats star D’banj lists Rema, Davido and Burna Boy as his top three acts, sparking online debate over his exclusion of Grammy winner Wizkid

Afrobeats veteran D’banj top three artists list has ignited strong reactions online after he named Rema, Davido and Burna Boy as his current favourites, omitting Wizkid—a decision that has not gone unnoticed by fans.

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Speaking on the Adesope Live podcast, the Kokomaster highlighted the qualities that, in his view, elevate each of his chosen artists above their peers.

For Rema, D’banj applauded the sheer vibrancy and youthful energy he brings to the stage and the studio. “Shout out to Rema—I love his energy,” he said with admiration.

On Davido, D’banj praised his consistency and humility, noting how the singer manages to carry himself modestly despite his fame and wealth. “People should learn from the way he carries himself like he doesn’t have a penny, yet he’s so consistent,” he noted.

Burna Boy, whom D’banj called “too intentional,” received accolades for his well-crafted artistry and memorable live performances. “His live shows are amazing,” the entertainer added, acknowledging the Grammy winner’s global reputation for stagecraft.

While many fans welcomed D’banj’s insight and appreciated his tribute to the next generation of superstars, the exclusion of Wizkid—another Grammy-winning, chart-topping force in the industry—caused a stir on social media.

Given Wizkid’s longstanding influence and international acclaim, his absence from the list sparked heated debates among music lovers.

Critics argued that Wizkid’s contributions to Afrobeats, including his pioneering role in taking the genre to a global audience, made him an undeniable presence on any list of contemporary greats. Others defended D’banj’s opinion, pointing out that personal taste and context often shape such rankings.

The controversy adds another layer to the ongoing fan-driven rivalries that dominate Nigerian pop culture conversations. Yet, it also highlights the remarkable depth and diversity within the Afrobeats scene, where multiple artists are achieving international milestones in real time.

D’banj’s comments come at a time of heightened visibility for Nigerian music worldwide, with artists like Rema, Davido, Burna Boy and Wizkid all representing different strengths and styles that have defined the genre’s growth over the past decade.