2Baba Condemns Viral Fela-Wizkid Debate as Disrespectful and Unfair
Nigerian music icon Innocent Idibia, widely known as 2Baba, has strongly criticized the ongoing social media debate comparing Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti to contemporary Afrobeats superstar Wizkid. In a recent interview on the Mic On podcast with host Seun Okinbaloye, the veteran artist described the comparisons as both "ridiculous" and "disrespectful" to the legacies of both musicians.
Why the Comparison Is Fundamentally Flawed
2Baba emphasized that the viral discussion, which originated from comments by Seun Kuti about Wizkid's fanbase, should never have emerged in the first place. He argued that comparing artists from different eras ignores their unique contexts, impacts, and contributions to Nigerian music. "Comparing Fela with Wizkid is ridiculous. Apart from the fact that it is disrespectful to Fela, and at the same time, it is also unfair to Wizkid," 2Baba stated during the podcast episode released on February 7.
The African Queen crooner explained that such debates undermine Fela's revolutionary legacy while simultaneously dismissing Wizkid's contemporary achievements. He noted that both artists have made significant but distinct marks on the music industry, making direct comparisons inappropriate and counterproductive.
Burna Boy Named as Current Leader Among Nigeria's 'Big Three'
When asked about the ongoing discussion surrounding Nigeria's "big three" contemporary artists—Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Davido—2Baba singled out Burna Boy as currently leading the pack. According to the veteran musician, the Grammy Award-winning artist has achieved a level of success that places him at the forefront not just in Nigeria, but across Africa and globally.
"I think Burna Boy is on top of the game. From what I can measure from common sense and understanding of the music world, I think right now Burna Boy is at the top of the chain, not just in Nigeria but in Africa and the world," 2Baba declared. He was quick to add that all three artists are performing exceptionally well, acknowledging their collective contributions to Nigerian music's global recognition.
Social Media Rivalries and Future Collaborations
Addressing the frequent social media exchanges among fans of the "big three," 2Baba suggested that some of the online bickering might be strategic marketing rather than genuine conflict. He characterized these interactions as part of the entertainment industry's dynamics, where public engagement often drives visibility and commercial success.
In a lighter moment during the interview, 2Baba expressed his admiration for rising star Ayra Starr, revealing his desire to collaborate with her. He praised her musical talent and stage presence, highlighting the continued evolution of Nigeria's vibrant music scene across generations.
Background of the Controversial Debate
The comparison debate gained momentum after Seun Kuti, Fela's son, criticized Wizkid's fanbase for what he perceived as disrespect toward his father's legacy. This prompted Wizkid to respond assertively on social media, claiming he was "bigger" than the late Afrobeat legend. The exchange sparked widespread discussion among music enthusiasts, with opinions divided along generational and artistic preference lines.
Meanwhile, recent events have shown continued reverence for Fela's legacy, as social media commentator VeryDarkMan and Seun Kuti were seen paying homage at Fela's graveside in a ritual that included traditional offerings. This contrast between contemporary debates and traditional respect underscores the complex relationship between Nigeria's musical past and present.
2Baba's comments represent a veteran perspective in an industry where generational dialogues often become heated public discussions. His stance emphasizes respect for musical heritage while acknowledging contemporary achievements, advocating for appreciation rather than comparison across different eras of Nigerian music excellence.
