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Tiwa Savage Clarifies “Big 3” Comment, Calls for Broader Recognition in Afrobeats
Afrobeats powerhouse Tiwa Savage has revisited her controversial remark on the so-called “Big 3” during a revealing chat on The Breakfast Club, insisting her words were misunderstood.
The interview, which aired on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, saw Savage address the backlash that followed her viral statement: “Fuck the Big Three.”
She explained that her frustration was not directed at Burna Boy, Wizkid, or Davido themselves, but at the narrative that constantly centers the genre around only three names.
“Not fuck them, but fuck the narrative,” she clarified. “This is a big continent with so many talented artists, yet the conversation keeps coming back to only three names.”
“Why did you say Fxck the Big 3?”
Tiwa Savage: I meant F that narrative, this is a continent & we keep reducing it to 3 Artists when we have diamond, Flavour, Yemi Alade, Tems, Asake, Rema….” pic.twitter.com/TkNtO7Ird9
— HYPETRIBE (@hypetribeng) September 23, 2025
The singer, widely regarded as one of Afrobeats’ most influential voices, went on to spotlight other acts who she believes deserve equal recognition. Among those she mentioned were Tanzanian star Diamond Platnumz, Nigerian icons Flavour and Yemi Alade, as well as global breakout stars Tems, Rema, and Asake.
Savage’s comments echo a growing concern among industry insiders and fans that the “Big 3” narrative, while acknowledging the immense impact of Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido, risks overshadowing the contributions of a wider pool of African artists who are equally driving the sound’s global reach.
By challenging the label, Tiwa Savage is pushing for a more inclusive view of Afrobeats one that celebrates its diversity and the breadth of talent emerging from across the continent.