Nigerian music icon David Adeleke, better known as Davido, has confidently asserted his indispensable role in the rise of the Afrobeats genre. In the latest issue of TheBeatJuice magazine, the Skelewu hitmaker declared, “Afrobeats can’t be brought up without my name. Impossible.”

Widely celebrated as one of the "Big Three" alongside Wizkid and Burna Boy, Davido’s influence on Afrobeats is undeniable. From chart-topping hits like If and Fall to sold-out concerts around the world, Davido has become a global ambassador for African music.

However, the superstar has expressed mixed feelings about being boxed solely into the Afrobeats label. During an appearance on the Business Untitled Podcast, Davido shared his perspective on the categorization of African music under the Afrobeats umbrella.

Afrofusion, Not Just Afrobeats

“I call my music Afrofusion,” Davido explained, emphasizing the diversity within his sound. While he acknowledges the Afrobeats tag as a unifying genre that has elevated African music globally, he also notes its limitations. “I don’t get offended when we’ve been categorized as Afrobeats. I mean, we need a genre. It could be R&B or Afropop.”

His sentiment echoes a growing conversation among African artists who feel their creativity extends beyond the boundaries of a single genre. Despite these concerns, Davido remains proud of Afrobeats’ global impact and its ability to spotlight African talent.

Opinion: Davido’s Legacy in Afrobeats

Davido’s claim about his irreplaceable role in Afrobeats isn’t just a bold statement; it’s a reflection of his journey. From his early days as a trailblazer with Dami Duro to his ongoing international collaborations, Davido has been instrumental in shaping the sound and narrative of Afrobeats. His ability to fuse various musical influences while staying true to his African roots has set him apart as a pioneer.

The debate about genre classification highlights a deeper issue: the need for the global music industry to recognize the diversity within African music. While the Afrobeats label has opened doors, it’s crucial to celebrate the sub-genres and unique styles that contribute to its richness.

Davido’s advocacy for Afrofusion as a distinct identity underscores the importance of giving artists the freedom to define their artistry. As the genre continues to evolve, one thing is clear: Davido’s name will always be etched in the story of Afrobeats.

What do you think about Davido’s contributions to Afrobeats and his perspective on genre labeling? Let’s discuss!