Former Davido signee Liya has ignited fresh conversations in the Afrobeats scene after naming her top artistes and notably omitting her ex-label boss, Davido. The singer, who was signed to Davido Music Worldwide (DMW) in 2020 and later parted ways with the label in 2023, made the revelation during a recent appearance on the Wahala Podcast.
In the candid interview, Liya ranked Olamide as her number one Afrobeats artist. She praised his leadership qualities and revealed she has seen another side of him beyond the public eye. She described Tiwa Savage as “the strongest, toughest giant” and a role model, while calling Burna Boy “a beast” on stage. She also mentioned Asa as a singer she grew up on and still looks up to.
Her top 4 list of Olamide, Tiwa Savage, Burna Boy, and Asa did not include Davido, sparking online debate about loyalty, personal growth and industry relationships.
Liya was open about her decision to leave DMW. In the same interview, she explained,
“I left (DMW) years ago. It was amazing while it lasted. Why did I leave? I just wanted more for myself as a person and as an artiste.”
Despite the exit, she has repeatedly affirmed her loyalty to Davido’s 30BG movement, stating she remains “30BG for life.”
The singer’s comments come long after she officially confirmed her departure from the label, a move that drew mixed reactions at the time. Since going independent, Liya has continued to build her solo career, releasing music and collaborating with other artists, including a notable link-up with Olamide.
As the discussion continues online, her top picks have added another layer to the ever ongoing conversations about the “big three” or “big four” in Afrobeats.