Veteran Nigerian music icon 2Baba has firmly shut down the growing debate comparing Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo Kuti with contemporary superstar Wizkid, describing such comparisons as both “ridiculous and disrespectful.”
The award-winning singer made the statement during a recent episode of the Mic On Podcast, hosted by Seun Okinbaoye, where he spoke candidly about his personal life and addressed trending issues within the Nigerian music space.
The Fela versus Wizkid conversation has gained widespread attention in recent weeks, drawing reactions from members of Fela’s family: including Femi Kuti, Yeni Kuti, and Seun Kuti, as well as Wizkid’s fans and music lovers across the country.
Reacting to the controversy, 2Baba acknowledged Wizkid’s global success and influence but stressed that placing him side by side with Fela is unfair to both artists, especially considering Fela’s historic role in shaping Afrobeat and using music as a tool for social change.
“It is ridiculous and disrespectful to compare Fela with Wizkid. Also, it is unfair to Wizkid to compare him with Fela,” 2Baba said.
According to the singer, Fela’s legacy goes beyond hit songs and fame, noting that the late Afrobeat legend laid the foundation for Nigerian music’s global recognition long before today’s stars emerged.
The singer’s comments have since sparked fresh conversations online, with many Nigerians agreeing that while Wizkid represents the modern evolution of Afrobeat, Fela remains a cultural icon whose impact cannot be measured by charts or awards.