Tiwa Savage: Excluding Tems From Afrobeats’ Big 3 Is Unfair
Story: written by springnewsmg September 5,2025
Nigerian music star Tiwa Savage has spoken out in defense of fellow singer Tems, criticizing her exclusion from conversations about Afrobeats’ “Big 3.”
The term “Big 3” is often used to describe Davido, Burna Boy, and Wizkid, who are regarded as Nigeria’s most dominant global music exports.
However, Tiwa questioned the criteria behind the label, arguing that it unfairly sidelines the achievements of leading women in the Afrobeats scene.
Speaking in an interview with BBC Radio 1Xtra, Tiwa Savage insisted that Tems deserves to be recognized among the top tier of Afrobeats artists.
“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?” she said.
Tems rose to international fame in 2020 following her collaboration with Wizkid on the global hit “Essence.” She won her first Grammy Award in 2023 for her contribution to “Wait For U” and added a second Grammy in 2025 after winning the Best African Performance category.
