Nigerian superstar Tiwa Savage has sparked fresh conversations in the music industry after questioning why female artistes are excluded from Afrobeats’ popular ‘Big 3’ label, which currently refers to Davido, Burna Boy, and Wizkid.

Speaking during an interview with BBC Radio 1Xtra, Tiwa made a strong case for Grammy-winning singer Tems, insisting that the conversation about top Afrobeats stars is incomplete without her name.

“Think about it. Certain types of artistes get paid more. So, they get the opportunity to spend more on influencers and radio play, so you are going to hear their music way more. Also, I feel like it is unfair to have a conversation about the Top 3 and not mention someone like Tems. Are you serious?” Tiwa asked.

Her statement comes at a time when Tems continues to solidify her position as one of Nigeria’s biggest global exports. Since rising to fame in 2020 with her game-changing feature on Wizkid’s ‘Essence’, Tems has gone on to break international records, earn collaborations with global stars, and bag multiple awards.

The singer won her first Grammy in 2023 for her contribution to Future and Drake’s hit ‘Wait For U.’ She further cemented her legacy in 2025, when she took home her second Grammy Award in the ‘Best African Performance’ category.

With achievements like these, Tiwa Savage believes it is time for the Afrobeats conversation to evolve beyond the traditional ‘Big 3’ and give women the flowers they deserve.

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