Nigerian music powerhouse Tiwa Savage has sparked fresh conversations across the Afrobeats scene after openly revealing that some of the industry’s biggest male stars, including Wizkid, Burna Boy and Davido, are among the artistes who inspire her musically, a statement that has both surprised fans and reinforced her humility despite her own iconic status in the global music space.
Speaking during a recent interview with Rolling Stone Africa, the award winning singer offered a candid reflection on the creative forces behind her artistry, making it clear that inspiration in music is not a one way street. According to her, she draws from a wide range of influences, including international acts, genres like jazz, and most notably, her contemporaries within the Nigerian music industry. She emphasized that creativity thrives on shared energy and mutual respect, pointing out that even at the top level, artists continue to learn from one another. ..READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE .
In her words, Savage explained that while she looks up to many figures musically, she remains deeply influenced by her peers, specifically naming Wizkid, Burna Boy and Davido as part of that inspiration circle. The revelation is particularly striking given her own standing as one of the pioneers of modern Afrobeats and a leading female voice who has consistently pushed the genre to global audiences.
Her comments arrive against the backdrop of an ongoing debate within the industry about the dominance of the so called “Big 3,” a term commonly used to describe Wizkid, Burna Boy and Davido as Nigeria’s biggest global exports. Interestingly, Savage herself had previously challenged this narrative, arguing that it tends to sideline female artists and other rising talents who are equally contributing to the evolution of Afrobeats.
Despite that earlier criticism, her latest remarks show a more nuanced perspective, one that separates admiration for individual artistry from broader industry labels. By acknowledging the influence of her male counterparts, Savage appears to be emphasizing unity and mutual inspiration within the industry rather than competition or division.
The reaction from fans has been immediate and intense, particularly on social media, where listeners have dissected her comments and debated the order in which she mentioned the artists, as well as the tone of her delivery. While some interpreted her statement as a diplomatic nod to avoid controversy, others saw it as a genuine acknowledgment of the impact these artists have had on shaping the sound and global reach of Afrobeats.
Savage’s influence in the music industry is undeniable. With a career that spans over a decade, she has consistently delivered chart topping hits, collaborated with international stars, and helped position African music on the world stage. Beyond music, she has also expanded her footprint into film and philanthropy, including the launch of initiatives focused on empowering young creatives and supporting music education.
Meanwhile, the artists she referenced continue to dominate both locally and internationally. Burna Boy, for instance, is widely regarded as one of the leading figures driving Afrobeats globally, with multiple awards and a strong international presence, while Wizkid and Davido have maintained their influence through chart success, global tours, and high profile collaborations.
What makes Savage’s statement particularly compelling is the reminder that even the biggest stars remain students of the craft. In an industry often defined by rivalry and fan driven competition, her acknowledgment of peer influence highlights a different narrative, one rooted in growth, collaboration and shared creative evolution.
As Afrobeats continues to expand its global footprint, voices like Tiwa Savage are playing a crucial role in shaping not just the sound of the genre, but also the culture around it. Her latest revelation serves as a powerful reminder that behind the fame and accolades lies a constant pursuit of inspiration, one that connects even the biggest names in the industry.
