I’m inspired by Burna Boy, Davido, Wizkid – Singer Tiwa Savage

Nigerian singer, Tiwa Savage has named Afrobeats ‘Big 3’ — Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy — among the artiste she looks up to,

In an interview with Rolling Stone Africa, Savage said her peers remain a source of inspiration.

“I am inspired by so many people. Musically, I am inspired by Brandy…I also listento Jazz… I am inspired by my peers,” she said.

“You know, Wiz, Burna, David. You know, everybody. I am inspired by so many people but I look up to God.”

The comments come a year after she publicly pushed back against the dominance of the male trio often hailed as Nigeria’s biggest global music exports.

In 2025, Savage argued that the “Big 3” label systematically overlooks leading female artistes in Afrobeats.

“Think about it, right? Certain types of artistes get paid more. So, they get the opportunity to spend more on influencers and radio play so you’re going to hear their music way more,” she said.

“And I also feel like it’s unfair to have that conversation about the Top 3 and not mention someone like Tems. Are you serious?”

Tiwa Savage later clarified her viral “fuck the big three” remark.

She explained that her target was not the individuals but the restrictive label that overshadows other talented artistes on the continent.

Savage pointed to the success of other stars, such as Yemi Alade, Flavour, Asake, Tems, and Rema, questioning why they are excluded from the conversation.