Davido: The Greatest Afrobeats Sensation After Fela family.part 10

In 2026, the discussion around Davido’s philanthropy versus the mentorship styles of Wizkid and Burna Boy remains a hot topic in Afrobeats. While Davido is often lauded for direct financial and promotional support, Wizkid and Burna Boy have also made significant, though different, contributions to the industry. 

Davido and Wizkid's Early Days

Pakurumo Funding: Several industry accounts, including 2025 reflections from former label associates, suggest that in 2011, Davido provided significant financial support for Wizkid's "Pakurumo" music video shoot during a period when Wizkid's label, EME, was facing temporary financial constraints.

Early Support: Beyond funding, Davido reportedly promoted Wizkid’s debut album Superstar with over 100 supportive tweets and even facilitated Wizkid's first experience on a private jet after he left EME. 

Musicians Assisted by Wizkid 

Wizkid is often described as a "kingmaker" whose influence is felt through collaborations and international platforming rather than just a traditional label signing model. 

Major "Cosign" Breakouts: Wizkid’s features are credited with reviving or launching major careers. Key examples include:

Tems: Her global rise was propelled by her feature on Wizkid's "Essence" in 2021.

Duncan Mighty: His 2018 resurgence was triggered by the hit "Fake Love" featuring Wizkid.

L.A.X: Signed to Starboy Entertainment in 2013; they collaborated on early hits like "Caro" and "Ginger".

Others: Wizkid has provided career-boosting features for artists like Bella Shmurda, Ayra Starr, Omah Lay, and BNXN.

Starboy Roster (Current & Former): Over the years, he has signed or partnered with L.A.X, Terri, Ghanaian acts R2Bees, Efya, and Mr Eazi, as well as producers like Maleek Berry and Legendury Beatz. 

Musicians Assisted by Burna Boy 

Burna Boy’s mentorship is largely centralized through his label, Spaceship Records (part of the Spaceship Collective), which focuses on a smaller, highly curated group of talent. 

Direct Signees:

BNXN (formerly Buju): Signed to Spaceship in 2020; his career was launched into the limelight through the "L'enu" remix featuring Burna Boy.

Nissi: Burna Boy's sister and a key artist on the label.

7G Records: As of 2024–2025, Burna Boy has reportedly launched a new label imprint, 7G Records, signing new talent with significant investment.

Industry Support: While more selective, Burna Boy has provided pivotal features and public endorsements for artists like Zlatan, Seyi Vibez, and Odumodublvck. 

Summary of Comparison (2026 Perspective)

Artist Core Method of Helping Notable Names Helped

Davido Direct financial funding, large label signings (DMW), and aggressive social media promotion. Mayorkun, Asake, Peruzzi, Dremo, Olakira, Portable.

Wizkid Strategic A-list collaborations and global platforming ("The Wizkid Effect"). Tems, Duncan Mighty, L.A.X, Terri, Ayra Starr, Omah Lay.

Burna Boy Highly selective mentorship and high-value label backing (Spaceship). BNXN (Buju), Nissi, Telz, LeriQ