Talent manager Bankulli has stirred massive debate in the Nigerian music industry after dismissing the widely popular “Big 3” narrative involving Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy as nothing but an illusion created for social media engagement.
Speaking during a recent appearance on the Tochi Talks podcast, Bankulli argued that the concept of a fixed top three is misleading and does not reflect the true dynamics of Afrobeats.
“There is nothing like Big 3, it is all an illusion.”
He drew a biblical analogy to drive home his point:
“Before Jesus came, there was John the Baptist and other prophets, and everyone had their roles to play. Are we going to say Moses is greater than Abraham?”
Bankulli stressed that every artist brings something unique to the table and deserves recognition on their own merit.
“I don’t believe in the Big 3. Everybody comes up with something to cause clickbait. Everybody is talented and that’s how I see it.”
He highlighted the success of newer artists who are thriving independently.
“So Big 3 for what? Rema doesn’t have collaborations with anybody called the Big 3, and he is still making it big. Same with other upcoming artists.”
The comments have sparked intense reactions online, with fans divided between those who agree that the “Big 3” tag limits the industry and others who insist the three superstars have earned their dominant positions through years of global impact, consistency, and record-breaking achievements.
Bankulli’s stance comes at a time when discussions about hierarchy, legacy, and the next generation of Afrobeats stars continue to dominate conversations in the Nigerian music industry.