Nigerian-American disc jockey DJ Tunez posted a cryptic message on X that quickly caught the attention of Afrobeats fans:”This has nothing to do with the BIG 3! Please I love all those guys! It’s about the 🧢!” Accompanied by a humorous image of a young boy with a playful expression, the post ignited a flurry of reactions, debates, and memes.
Michael Babatunde Adeyinka, better known as DJ Tunez, is a prominent figure in the Afrobeats scene. He signed with Wizkid’s Starboy Entertainment in 2015 and gained recognition with his 2016 production “Iskaba,” a hit track featuring Wande Coal that was listed among Okayafrica’s Best Songs of 2017. Rolling Stone highlights how DJ Tunez bridges the old and new schools of Afrobeats, drawing thousands to his dance parties in cities like New York. His close association with Afrobeats giants like Wizkid and Davido makes his commentary on the “Big 3” particularly noteworthy.
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The term “Big 3” in the Afrobeats community often refers to the three leading artists dominating the genre: Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy. A Songlines article notes how these artists have transformed the global perception of African music through their “infectious Afrobeats insurgency.” However, the “Big 3” label is a contentious topic among fans, as seen in the replies to DJ Tunez’s post. For instance: @Wuwaika90 argued, “Don’t be including Wizkid in that nonsense BIG 3, wiz is BIG WIZ, let those who blew in 2018 and the Afro farmer be fighting for dem spots,” suggesting Wizkid stands above the competition. @zaddyswanky questioned Davido’s inclusion, stating, “Who put Davido for big 3 self ???? E no go ever better for that person 🙏🏾,” reflecting the rivalry between fanbases. @Bensmardo_Dc proposed an alternative “Big 3” lineup: “Your big 3 might be Big wiz, Olamide and Burna boy tho,” adding another artist, Olamide, into the mix. These responses highlight the ongoing debate about who truly belongs in the “Big 3,” a discussion that DJ Tunez seemingly wanted to distance himself from.
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The replies to DJ Tunez’s post reveal the polarized nature of Afrobeats fandoms. While some fans like @GucciStarboi supported DJ Tunez’s neutrality, others used the opportunity to take jabs at their rivals. @Realer0 quoted Wizkid, saying, “I can retire today and your still not on my level,” while @HenryDolla48143 declared, “Davido is the king of afrobeat na only una Dey mumu unsef.” Memes also played a big role in the thread. @zaddyswanky shared an image of a confused child to express disbelief at Davido’s “Big 3” inclusion, while @1yxrlo posted images of Wizkid, Burna Boy, and another artist to define their version of the “Big 3.” The mix of humor, shade, and fan loyalty showcases the vibrant and competitive nature of Afrobeats fan culture on X.
