Music executive Ubi Franklin has weighed in on the dynamics between Nigeria’s Afrobeats heavyweights, Wizkid, Davido and Burna Boy, popularly dubbed the genre’s “Big 3.”

 

Speaking on a recent episode of the Afropolitan podcast, Franklin said it would be “difficult” for the three stars to collaborate because their status naturally makes them rivals. He compared their competition to the intense rivalry among Nigeria’s leading banks, stressing that such competition exists in every industry.

 

“It would be difficult for Wizkid, Davido and Burna Boy to come together,” Franklin said. “I will speak for Davido, I have never heard him, for once, say something ill about Wizkid or Burna Boy. And I’m sure it’s the same for them. But the environment [industry] they are in will make it difficult for them to work together.”

 

The talent manager, however, clarified that the perceived “beef” is not personal but largely entertainment-driven. He noted that despite public speculation, he has never heard his associate Davido gossip about Wizkid or Burna Boy, and he believes the respect is mutual.

 

“In every industry, there is the Big 3,” Franklin added, reinforcing his point that their rivalry is a natural by-product of their success rather than personal animosity.