Echotitbits – Nigeria News

Tag: Burna Boy

Wizkid Fires Back at 2Baba Over Burna Boy Ranking Comments

In a post shared by @wizkidayo on Snapchat, the Afrobeats superstar expressed strong disapproval of veteran singer 2Baba’s recent assessment of the “Big 3” hierarchy. Wizkid dismissed the veteran’s opinion, suggesting that 2Baba should focus on his own domestic affairs rather than ranking younger artists.

The friction began after 2Baba appeared on the Mic On Podcast, where he stated that while he enjoys music from Wizkid and Davido, he believes Burna Boy is currently operating on a superior global level. 2Baba described Burna Boy as being at the “top of the chain” in the world right now.

Responding to the viral clip, Wizkid labeled the “African Queen” crooner an “old man” and signaled that he would not be letting such comments slide in 2026. This exchange has reignited intense debates among fans regarding the global dominance and legacy of Nigeria’s top musical exports.

The tension highlights the competitive nature of the Afrobeats scene as it continues to expand globally. While 2Baba likely intended to offer an objective industry perspective, Wizkid’s sharp retort suggests a thinning patience for comparisons that overlook his own record-breaking achievements. Watch for whether Burna Boy or Davido weighs in on this rare public clash between a pioneer and a modern titan.

* PM News Nigeria (Website): “Wizkid has criticised veteran singer 2Baba for saying Burna Boy is ahead of him… describing 2Baba as an ‘old man’.”

* Channels TV (Website): “2Baba said Burna Boy currently operates on a different musical level… I think Burna is on top of the game right now.”

Source: PM News Nigeria — https://pmnewsnigeria.com/2026/02/12/wizkid-slams-2baba-for-ranking-burna-boy-above-him/#google_vignette February 12, 2026

Photo Credit: Daily Post

February 13, 2026
Wizkid Fires Back at 2Baba Over Recent “Big 3” Rankings

According to Daily Post Nigeria, the Afrobeats scene is currently on fire after Wizkid took to Snapchat to address comments made by legendary singer 2Baba regarding the global hierarchy of Nigerian artists. The “Essence” star didn’t hold back, reacting to a recent interview where the veteran musician placed Burna Boy at the top of the current global standings.

Wizkid’s response was sharp and personal, as he advised the senior colleague to focus on resolving his own family matters before offering public opinions on music. The singer, who has previously declared himself the country’s number one star, appears to be entering a highly vocal phase as 2206 unfolds.

The tension stems from 2Baba’s appearance on a talk show with Seun Okinbaloye, where he was asked to weigh in on the “Big 3″—Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy. While acknowledging all three, his preference for Burna Boy’s current global dominance clearly struck a chord with “Big Wiz.”

This exchange has ignited a massive debate across social media, with fans divided between respecting 2Baba’s veteran status and supporting Wizkid’s right to defend his legacy. Wizkid concluded his post by stating he is “never letting it slack in 2026,” signaling a competitive year ahead for the star.

* News Ghana (Official Portal): “Wizkid Fires Back at 2Baba Over Burna Boy Comments… reacts to rating Burna Boy above him.”

* The Nation Online (Entertainment): “Burna Boy ahead of Wizkid, Davido locally, globally – 2Baba… Wizkid slams senior colleague.”

Echotitbits take:

This isn’t just a petty spat; it’s a clash of generations and egos in a year where the “Big 3” debate is more polarized than ever following the recent Grammys. Wizkid’s aggressive stance suggests he feels his “King of Afrobeats” status is being unfairly questioned by the old guard. Expect this to fuel his upcoming releases, as he clearly has a point to prove to both the veterans and the industry at large.

Source: Daily Post — https://dailypost.ng/2026/02/12/old-man-wizkid-blasts-2baba-for-rating-burna-boy-over-him-on-global-stage/ February 12, 2026

Photo Credit: Daily Post

February 12, 2026
Entertainment Industry Shaken as 960 Music Group Sues Over Burna Boy Catalogue

According to Channels Television, the Nigerian music industry is facing a high-stakes legal battle as the 960 Music Group has filed a lawsuit to void the multi-million dollar sale of Burna Boy’s music catalogue. The group, which claims to be a major shareholder, argues that the sale of the “crown jewel” assets was finalized without their knowledge, consent, or board approval.

The lawsuit seeks to freeze the proceeds of the sale and restore the ownership rights to the original stakeholders. This case highlights the growing complexity of music rights and intellectual property in Africa’s booming entertainment sector, where global investors are increasingly looking to acquire the libraries of Afrobeats stars.

Burna Boy’s catalogue is considered one of the most valuable in African music, containing global hits that generate significant streaming and licensing revenue. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for how contracts are structured and how minority shareholders are protected in the Nigerian creative industry.

Further reporting from The Punch and Tribune provides additional context. The Punch reported that “international buyers are closely watching the case as it affects the stability of Nigerian music investments,” while Tribune noted that “Burna Boy’s management has yet to release an official statement regarding the litigation.”

Echotitbits take: This is the “Big Corporate” side of Afrobeats. As our music goes global, the legal battles will only get messier. This case will be a litmus test for IP laws in Nigeria and how “Legacy” labels handle the exit of their biggest stars to global giants.

Source: Channels TV – https://www.channelstv.com/2026/02/09/960-music-group-sues-to-void-multi-million-dollar-burna-boy-catalogue/, February 10, 2026

Photo credit: Channels TV

February 10, 2026
Cole Enlists Afrobeats Royalty for Highly Anticipated Final Album

In a post shared by @adedejiadeyanju on TheNet.ng, American rap titan J. Cole has officially confirmed that Nigerian superstars Burna Boy and Tems will feature on his seventh and final studio album, The Fall Off. This collaboration marks a significant bridge between US Hip-Hop and the global Afrobeats movement as Cole prepares to take his final bow.

The album, which has been teased for years, is reportedly a double-disc project that explores Cole’s legacy and the evolution of rap culture. By including Burna Boy and Tems, Cole is doubling down on the “world music” influence that has permeated recent US Hip-Hop charts.

Insiders suggest that the tracks featuring the Nigerian duo are not just melodic hooks but deep, lyrical exchanges. Tems is rumored to appear on a soul-heavy ballad, while Burna Boy joins Cole on a high-energy track that blends boom-bap rhythms with West African percussion.

* HipHopDX: “J. Cole reveals The Fall Off tracklist, confirming it will be a double album with features from Burna Boy and Tems.”

* The Source: “The Fall Off comes with a powerful Nigerian stamp as Burna Boy and Tems join Cole’s final musical journey.”

Echotitbits Take: J. Cole has always been intentional with his “no features” era, so choosing Tems and Burna Boy for his swan song is a massive validation of Afrobeats’ staying power in the US. This moves beyond a “trend” and cements these Nigerian artists as essential peers to Hip-Hop’s elite. Watch for The Fall Off to dominate both the Billboard 200 and Nigerian streaming charts simultaneously upon release.

Source: Facebook — https://web.facebook.com/musicbaseafrica/posts/-breaking-news-two-of-nigerias-greatest-and-biggest-exporters-of-afrobeats-are-f/913511877855881/?_rdc=1&_rdr# February 9, 2026

Photo Credit: Facebook

February 9, 2026
2Baba Crowns Burna Boy Global King of Afrobeats Above Wizkid and Davido

According to a report by The Nation, legendary Nigerian musician 2Baba (Innocent Idibia) has declared that Burna Boy is currently operating on a superior level compared to his counterparts, Wizkid and Davido. Speaking on the Mic On Podcast, the veteran artist emphasized that while he appreciates the talent of the entire “Big 3,” Burna Boy’s recent global influence and consistency have placed him at the pinnacle of the genre.

The “African Queen” crooner explained that evaluating these artists is similar to comparing different painters, noting that each has a unique style. However, he admitted that if he had to choose who is “top of the game” right now, the “Last Last” singer takes the crown. He further clarified that his assessment is based on current musical impact rather than personal bias or bank balances.

The statement has since sparked a massive debate across social media platforms like TikTok and X, where fans of the three heavyweights have been clashing over 2Baba’s verdict. This comes at a time when Afrobeats is facing a critical lens following the 2026 Grammy results, where Tyla took home the Best African Music Performance award over the Nigerian nominees.

2Baba’s comments serve as a rare public ranking from a veteran whose opinion carries significant weight in the industry. As the “Big 3” continue to dominate, this endorsement suggests a shift in the internal hierarchy of the scene, potentially influencing how these stars are perceived by international collaborators and award bodies in the coming year.

* Punch Newspaper (Official Website): “Burna Boy is currently on a different level right now… in terms of music influence and global reach.”

* Daily Post Nigeria (Entertainment): “I think Burna is on a different level right now… Everyone is doing fantastically well, but Burna is at the top.”

Echotitbits take:

2Baba’s endorsement of Burna Boy is a massive cultural marker because it signals a “changing of the guard” in the eyes of the industry’s elder statesmen. While Wizkid and Davido have long held the joint crown, Burna Boy’s relentless global touring and genre-bending “Afro-fusion” have clearly won over the veterans. Watch for how Wizkid and Davido respond through their upcoming releases, as this “Top 1” debate usually fuels a competitive streak in their music.

Source: The Cable — https://lifestyle.thecable.ng/2baba-gives-verdict-on-afrobeats-big-three-says-burna-boy-is-the-biggest/ February 8, 2026

Photo Credit: The Cable

February 8, 2026
Tyla Claims Historic Second Win Over Afrobeats Heavyweights at 2026 Grammys

According to The Lagos Review, South African sensation Tyla has once again emerged victorious in the Best African Music Performance category at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards. Her hit track “Push 2 Start” bested a formidable lineup of Nigerian stars, including Davido’s “With You,” Burna Boy’s “Love,” and Ayra Starr’s “Gimme Dat.” This marks Tyla’s second win in the category, following her 2024 triumph with “Water.”

The results have sparked a massive debate across Nigerian social media, with fans questioning the Recording Academy’s voting criteria. Despite the loss for current stars, the night was sweetened by a posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award for Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti, accepted by his children Femi, Yeni, and Kunle Kuti.

Confirming the win, The Nation Nigeria reported on the mixed reactions within the Nigerian music industry. The outlet quoted fan reactions stating, “He was robbed,” in reference to Davido’s narrow miss. Switsalone also covered the event, capturing Tyla’s emotional acceptance speech where she said, “I’m just so lucky to be here, and I’m so proud to be African.”

Echotitbits take: While Tyla’s dominance is a testament to the global appeal of Amapiano-fusion, the “zero for ten” streak for Nigerian nominees this year is a wake-up call for the Afrobeats industry. Expect a shift in how Nigerian labels strategize for international awards, possibly moving toward more collaborative “global” sounds to appeal to the Academy’s current palate.

Source: The Lagos Review — https://thelagosreview.ng/tyla-beats-davido-wizkid-burna-boy-to-grammy-win/ February 5, 2026

Photo Credit: The Lagos Review

February 5, 2026
Grammys 2026: Tyla Secures Victory as Tinubu Honours Fela Kuti

Reporting by Channels TV indicates that South African star Tyla has once again triumphed over Nigerian heavyweights Davido, Burna Boy, and Ayra Starr to win the “Best African Music Performance” category at the 2026 Grammy Awards. Despite the disappointment for Nigerian fans, the night was historic as the legendary Fela Anikulapo Kuti was posthumously honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award.

President Bola Tinubu hailed the late Afrobeat pioneer as the “fearless voice of the people,” noting that the award is a testament to the enduring global impact of Nigerian culture. The President’s message emphasized that Fela’s music continues to inspire generations toward social justice and cultural pride, cementing Nigeria’s place as a global entertainment powerhouse.

Validation of the awards and the President’s reaction came from The Nation and Daily Post. The Nation reports that “the 2026 Grammys saw a massive turnout of the Nigerian contingent,” quoting a music critic who said, “Fela’s recognition is long overdue and validates the roots of the current Afrobeats explosion.” Daily Post adds that the APC National Chairman echoed the President’s sentiments, stating, “Our artists are our greatest ambassadors on the world stage.”

Echotitbits take: While Nigerian artists missed out on the top African performance prize, the Lifetime Achievement Award for Fela Kuti is arguably a bigger win for the nation’s cultural heritage. It shifts the conversation from modern commercial success to the foundational influence of Afrobeat. Expect a surge in Fela-themed events and documentaries throughout the year as this global recognition sinks in.

Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/fearless-voice-of-the-people-tinubu-salutes-felas-posthumous-grammy-recognition/, February 4, 2026

Photo credit: The Punch

February 4, 2026
Afro Nation 2026 Announces Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Asake as Headliners

According to Vanguard Nigeria, the organizers of the Afro Nation festival have unveiled their powerhouse lineup for the 2026 edition in Portugal. Afrobeats giants Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Asake have been confirmed as the primary headliners for the event, which is scheduled to take place at Praia da Rocha Beach from July 3 to July 5.

The festival is set to be a massive celebration of African music, with Burna Boy opening the first day alongside South African star Tyla. Asake will take the stage on the second day, while Wizkid is slated for the grand finale. The lineup also includes international guests such as Kehlani and Gunna, signaling the festival’s continued global expansion.

Early access tickets are expected to go on sale this week, and the inclusion of these three “titans” of the genre ensures that the 2026 edition will likely be a sold-out event. The announcement comes just after the Grammy weekend, keeping the momentum of Afrobeats high on the international stage.

* Gazette Nigeria: “Organizers have announced a powerful lineup that blends established legacies with exciting new voices on the global music scene.”

* Daily Post Nigeria: “Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Asake are set to headline… bringing cross-genre flair to the music fiesta in Portugal.”

Echotitbits take:

Afro Nation continues to be the “World Cup” of Afrobeats. By securing the “Big Three” (substituting Davido with Asake for this specific roster), the organizers are ensuring maximum tourist draw to Portugal. This lineup also reflects the current dominance of “Street Pop” via Asake’s inclusion as a headliner.

Source: Vanguard — https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/01/wizkid-burna-boy-asake-set-to-headline-afro-nation-2026-in-portugal/ January 30, 2026

Photo Credit: Vanguard

February 3, 2026
Nigerian Stars Face Grammy Heartbreak as International Competitors Sweep Awards

According to reporting by The Punch, the Nigerian music industry is reeling from a disappointing night at the 68th Grammy Awards, where several top Afrobeats stars failed to secure wins in their respective categories. Despite a record number of nominations for Nigerian artists, the “Global Music” categories were dominated by performers from other regions, sparking a heated debate on social media about the Grammys’ evolving criteria for African music.

The “Grammy heartbreak” has dominated conversations in Lagos and London, with fans questioning why the global commercial success of Afrobeats is not translating into more trophies from the Recording Academy. Nevertheless, industry insiders argue that the sheer volume of nominations proves that Nigerian music remains at the forefront of the global cultural zeitgeist, regardless of the final winners.

The event was also detailed by Daily Post and Channels TV. Daily Post noted that “Afrobeats fans took to X (formerly Twitter) to vent their frustrations,” while Channels TV featured an interview with a music critic who noted, “The Grammys are just one platform; the real win is the $1 billion in revenue Afrobeats generated last year.”

Echotitbits take: This “snub” might actually be a blessing in disguise for the local industry, fueling the push for the “Afrobeats Grammys” or a more robust African-led awards system. The focus should remain on streaming dominance and global touring, which provide more sustainable income than a golden gramophone.

Source: TribuneOnline – https://tribuneonlineng.com/nigerians-react-as-davido-others-lose-grammy-award-to-tyla/, February 3, 2026

Photo credit: TribuneOnline

February 3, 2026
Tyla Triumphs Again as Nigerian Stars Face Grammy Heartbreak

In a report by PM News Nigeria, the 68th Grammy Awards ended in significant disappointment for the Nigerian music industry as South African sensation Tyla secured the Best African Music Performance trophy for the second consecutive year. Her hit single “Push 2 Start” outpaced heavyweights like Davido, Burna Boy, and Wizkid, sparking a massive wave of reactions across social media from fans who felt the Afrobeats contingent was overlooked.

The ceremony, which took place on Sunday night, saw Tyla solidify her status as the leading face of the newly minted category. While Nigerian fans expressed outrage, the night was not a total loss for the nation’s musical heritage, as the Recording Academy honored the legendary Fela Kuti with a posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award, making him the first African to receive the prestigious merit.

Despite the individual losses for Burna Boy’s “No Sign of Weakness” and Davido’s “With You,” the discourse has shifted toward the “N-POP” movement, a new wave of African music focusing on creative autonomy. Industry veterans like Olamide have called for calm, urging fans to appreciate the global growth of the sound regardless of specific award outcomes.

The “snub” has reignited debates about the Recording Academy’s understanding of Afrobeats versus Amapiano-infused pop. While the trophy goes to South Africa, the cultural impact of the Nigerian nominees remains undeniable, with many viewing this as a catalyst for artists to further diversify their sound away from “Grammy-chasing” formulas.

* Punch Nigeria (via Website): “Nigerian stars Burna Boy, Davido, Omah Lay, Ayra Starr, and Wizkid all fell short, leaving the country without a trophy for the year.”

* Cubana Chiefpriest (via X/Twitter): “Heads up brother, open the bag & drop another hot one for us. E no dey finish, gbedu na Water…”

Echotitbits take:

This “double-tap” victory by Tyla is a wake-up call for the Nigerian music industry. It suggests that while Afrobeats has the numbers, the Academy is currently enamored with the sleek, Amapiano-pop crossover appeal Tyla provides. Expect Nigerian A-listers to pivot toward more experimental “N-POP” sounds or double down on grassroots authenticity to regain the narrative in 2027.

Source: PM News Nigeria — https://pmnewsnigeria.com/2026/02/02/davido-was-robbed-nigerians-outraged-at-davidos-loss-to-tyla-at-2026-grammys/ February 2, 2026

Photo Credit: PM News Nigeria

February 2, 2026