Written by Rukevwe Arubi

Renowned Nigerian singer and Grammy award-winner, Ayodeji Balogun, widely known as Wizkid, has made a significant announcement that has stirred both anticipation and controversy among his fans. Taking to his Instagram platform, the superstar revealed that his forthcoming album will be titled “Morayo,” in honor of his late mother. However, accompanying this heartfelt tribute is a stern warning directed at fans who identify as lovers of Afrobeats.

In a surprising turn of events, Wizkid explicitly cautioned Afrobeats enthusiasts against downloading his upcoming album. He emphasized his departure from the genre, urging those who enjoy the traditional Afrobeats sound, reminiscent of his earlier hits like “Pakurumo,” to refrain from including his new project in their playlists. The artist’s declaration, made through his Instagram story, resounded with clarity: “And abeg if you like Pakurumo Wizkid, don’t download this new album… If you like Afrobeats, don’t download my album. I’m not a f*cking Afrobeats artiste. I am not Afro anything.”

This bold statement from one of Africa’s most influential music figures has sparked a wave of speculation and debate within the music community. Afrobeats, a genre that Wizkid has undeniably played a pivotal role in popularizing globally, now finds itself at a crossroads with one of its most prominent ambassadors distancing himself from its conventions.

Wizkid’s decision to dedicate his album to his late mother, Morayo, adds a poignant layer to this unfolding narrative. It reflects a deeply personal journey for the artist, possibly indicating a departure from the commercial pressures of conforming to genre expectations and a return to his roots of self-expression and authenticity.

As fans eagerly await the release of “Morayo,” the conversation surrounding Wizkid’s artistic evolution continues to gain momentum. While some applaud his courage to challenge the status quo and redefine his musical identity, others express concern about the potential repercussions on his fan base and the broader Afrobeats movement.