- The global reach of Afrobeats so far is undeniable with Nigerian singers at the forefront of accolades and contributions
- The genre pioneered by legendary Afrobeat singer Fela Kuti has grown to be widely embraced by international communities
- TheRadar curated a list of Nigerian artistes based on their Afrobeats global contribution got celebration days named after them in the US
The consistent growth of Afrobeats has seen many Nigerian singers recognised and celebrated for their works and contributions to the genre in international communities.
From selling the world's biggest stages to shutting down arenas and even winning globally recognised award categories, Nigerian singers always represent.
In recognising World Wizkid Day was celebrated on October 6, TheRadar spotlighted Nigerian singers who have days named after them in the United States of America.
4 Nigerian singers with recognised World celebration days
- Wizkid - October 6 (2018)
Popular singer and songwriter Ayodeji Balogun, popularly known as Wizkid, joined his colleagues who have world celebration days in 2018. The ‘Essence’ crooner got a day dedicated to him as ‘Wizkid Day.’ This was announced by the governor of Minnesota, Mark Dayton, in the US. The recognition followed after Wizkid became the first African artiste to sell out Skyway Theatre in 2018. For 6 years, Wizkid Day has been celebrated so far.
- Praiz - February 6 (2018)
Nigerian singer, Praiz Adejo, was also recognised in Minnesota by Governor Mark Dayton. ‘Praiz’s Day’ was dedicated to February 6 every year to celebrate the outstanding singer and his contributions to music. The recognition announcement came when Praiz was on a tour in the city.
- Davido - July 7 (2023)
David Adeleke, also known as Davido, was honoured with a special day ‘Davido’s Day’ to celebrate him in Houston, US in July 2023. The Mayor of Houston, Sylvester Turner had made the official announcement to recognise Davido’s immense push to Afrobeats globally. Significantly, the news was publicly made at the 40,000-capacity Toyota arena where the ‘Unavailable’ crooner held an electrifying concert on July 7, 2023. According to the declaration, the day is set aside to honour the significant contributions of Davido to the Nigerian music industry and international space.
- Burna Boy - March 2 (2024)
Self-acclaimed African Giant, Damini Ogulu, professionally known as Burna Boy, is another Nigerian singer with a World Celebration Day. ‘Burna Boy’s Day’ was recognised in the City of Boston, Massachusetts, USA. ‘Burna Boy’s Day’ was concluded by the city council and the proclamation was signed by councillor Rutheze Louijeune. In recognising Burna Boy, the declaration letter stated that Burna Boy’s legacy serves as the reason the city has amplified voices silenced for a long time.
10 best surprise on-stage appearances of Wizkid
TheRadar earlier reported that Nigerian Afrobeats star Ayodeji Balogun, popularly known as Wizkid, has severally left fans stunned by his surprise appearance to support fellow artistes on stage.
Following Wizkid’s recent surprise on-stage performance at SeyiVibez’ concert, TheRadar looked back at 10 best surprise performances of Wizkid to support fellow artistes in the Nigerian music scene.
