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Shaffy Bello: Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy Have Reached Fela’s Legendary Status

Introduction

The debate regarding the legacy of Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and the status of contemporary Nigerian superstars has taken a new turn. Nollywood actress Shaffy Bello has asserted that the current “Big Three” of Nigerian music—Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy—have already achieved a level of global recognition comparable to the late icon.

Speaking on the “What I Know” podcast hosted by Korty EO alongside Seyi Sodimu, Bello argued that international reputation is the primary metric for this comparison. This article explores her statements, the context of Fela’s recent Grammy honor, and the complex discourse surrounding musical legacies in the Afrobeats genre.

Key Points

Background

To understand the weight of Shaffy Bello’s statement, one must look at the historical context of Fela Anikulapo-Kuti. Fela is widely regarded as the pioneer of the Afrobeat genre, blending funk, jazz, and traditional West African rhythms with politically charged lyrics. His activism against military regimes in Nigeria and his cultural impact made him a global icon.

The Current Contenders

The artists mentioned by Bello—Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy—have individually achieved massive global success. Wizkid’s “Essence” became a global anthem, Davido has maintained a consistent international touring presence, and Burna Boy won a Grammy Award for Best Global Music Album in 2021. These artists have propelled Afrobeats into the mainstream Western music charts, a feat that aligns with the global reach Fela maintained during his lifetime.

The Podcast Conversation

The discussion occurred during an episode of What I Know, a platform known for deep dives into the experiences of influential figures. When host Korty EO asked if any current Nigerian artists could reach a legendary status similar to Fela, Bello’s response was immediate and affirmative. She noted that while Fela remains the foundational pioneer, the current generation has matched his level of international visibility.

Analysis

Shaffy Bello’s comments provide a fascinating lens through which to view the evolution of the Nigerian music industry. Her assessment focuses heavily on the concept of “cross-border reputation.”

Defining “Identical Degree”

Bello clarified that the comparison is based on “recognition, power, and money.” In the context of the global music industry, these metrics are quantifiable. Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy consistently sell out arenas in Europe and North America, command high streaming numbers, and have lucrative endorsement deals. From a purely commercial and visibility standpoint, their reach rivals that of Fela’s international fame during the peak of his career.

The Cultural vs. Commercial Debate

While Bello’s assessment holds weight in terms of commercial success and global reach, music critics often distinguish between commercial impact and cultural revolution. Fela’s music was intrinsically tied to political activism and social commentary in Nigeria. Modern Afrobeats stars often focus more on love, partying, and personal success. Bello’s argument suggests that in the modern era, global stardom itself is a form of legendary status, regardless of the specific thematic content of the music.

Seun Kuti’s Perspective

It is essential to contrast Bello’s view with that of Seun Kuti, Fela’s son. Seun has been vocal about his belief that comparing modern artists to his father is “disrespectful.” He argues that Fela’s legacy is unique and that labeling current artists as “New Fela” diminishes both the pioneer and the contemporary musicians. This creates a dichotomy in the industry: one side views the legacy as a standard of achievement to aspire to, while the other views it as a singular historical event that cannot be replicated.

Practical Advice

For fans and industry observers trying to navigate these comparisons, here are a few points to consider when evaluating the legacies of past and present artists.

Understand the Metrics of Success

Success in music is multifaceted. When comparing artists, determine what metric matters most to you. Is it:

• Commercial Viability: Ticket sales, streaming numbers, and revenue.
• Cultural Impact: Influence on social movements, fashion, and national identity.
• Critical Acclaim: Awards, peer recognition, and musical innovation.

Shaffy Bello focuses on the first metric, while Seun Kuti emphasizes the second.

Appreciate Distinct Eras

The music industry of the 1970s and 80s, which Fela dominated, was vastly different from the digital streaming era of today. Modern artists have access to social media and global distribution platforms that did not exist in Fela’s time. Recognizing these structural differences allows for a more nuanced appreciation of each artist’s achievements without necessitating direct competition.

Respect the Roots

While celebrating the global success of Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy, it is practical to acknowledge the foundation laid by Fela. The genre they popularize today, often termed “Afrobeats” (with an ‘s’), is a descendant of the “Afrobeat” (singular) Fela created. Understanding this lineage enhances the listening experience and provides context to the current global explosion of West African sounds.

FAQ

Conclusion

Shaffy Bello’s assertion that Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy have reached an “identical degree” as Fela Anikulapo-Kuti highlights the massive strides Nigerian music has made on the global stage. By focusing on international recognition, power, and financial success, her perspective validates the hard work of the modern “Big Three.” However, the counter-narrative provided by Seun Kuti reminds us that while commercial success can be equated, cultural and revolutionary impact remains a deeply personal and distinct legacy. As the Nigerian music industry continues to evolve, both the pioneers and the current superstars play essential roles in the global narrative of African music.