Mr Eazi Claims He ‘Saved Afrobeats’ in 2016, Credits His Sound for Genre’s Growth

Nigerian singer Oluwatosin Ajibade, popularly known as Mr Eazi, has claimed that he played a major role in revitalising Afrobeats in 2016 and contributing to its eventual global acceptance.

The singer made the statement during a recent interview with 3Music TV, where he boldly declared that he had singlehandedly saved the genre that year.

“I saved Afrobeats in 2016,” Mr Eazi said.

The Skin Tight crooner explained that his arrival on the music scene introduced a fresh sound that helped breathe new life into Afrobeats.

Mr Eazi emerged as one of the prominent breakthrough acts in the Nigerian and African music industries in 2016, gaining attention for his relaxed vocal delivery and distinctive fusion of musical styles.

His success during that period also earned him the Next Rated award at the 2016 Headies Awards, further cementing his growing profile in the industry.

However, Mr Eazi was not the only artist making waves that year. Other musicians, including Tekno, Runtown and Ycee, also enjoyed significant success with hit songs that gained popularity across Africa and among audiences in the diaspora.

While Mr Eazi has attributed part of Afrobeats’ growth to his contribution, the genre’s rise involved several artists whose music helped expand its audience and influence beyond the continent.