Music executive and Stingomania Records founder, Dr. Ope Banwo, has dismissed ongoing comparisons between Grammy-winning star Wizkid and Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, describing the debate as misplaced and historically inaccurate.
Reacting to the recurring online arguments, Banwo acknowledged Wizkid’s global impact, praising the singer’s achievements, influence, and dominance in the modern music scene.
“Wizkid is a global superstar — hit records, international awards, sold-out venues and undeniable vibes. He has earned his respect,” Banwo said.
Ope Banwo, Founder Stingomania Records
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However, he stressed that placing Wizkid and the Afrobeat legend side by side ignores the fundamental difference between being successful within a system and creating the system itself.
“Fela was not just making music; he was shaping consciousness. He used sound as a tool to redefine culture, rebellion, identity, and expression, all while making people dance,” he noted.
According to Banwo, comparisons should be made within generational and contextual boundaries.
Afrobeat legend, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti
Grammy-winning star, Wizkid
“You compare Wizkid with artistes of his era — Burna Boy, Davido, Drake and others. But Fela belongs in a different conversation entirely. He stands with revolutionaries — people who changed history, not just music charts,” he explained.
The music entrepreneur added that Fela’s influence went beyond hit songs, pointing out that the late icon created Afrobeat from the ground up and inspired an entire ecosystem that still thrives today.
“You cannot compare the creator of a genre to those who later mastered it. Fela carved a new sound from nothing. That foundation is what today’s artistes are building on,” Banwo said.
Describing the debate as unnecessary, he likened it to comparing a father and son.
“Fela is the father of Afrobeat. Wizkid is a brilliant son who has taken the sound global. But they are not in the same lane. Fela’s shadow shaped the world Wizkid now shines in,” he stated.
Banwo also dismissed attempts to frame the discussion as a rivalry between equals.
“This is not a Sunny Ade versus Ebenezer Obey situation. This is a matter of origin versus evolution,” he said.
He concluded by placing both artistes in their rightful contexts.
“Wizkid is undeniably great. But Fela represents something bigger than greatness — he represents legacy.”
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