The Rise of Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Davido: A Visual Journey through Afrobeats

Afrobeats has become a global music sensation, with Nigerian superstars like Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy dominating playlists and performing in huge stadiums. Photographer Oliver Akinfeleye, known as 'Drummer', has been documenting the rise of Afrobeats since 2017, capturing intimate moments and electrifying performances of the genre's biggest artists.

Rooted in West African musical traditions, Afrobeats blends traditional rhythms with Western influences like pop, rap, and dancehall. The genre gained popularity in the UK and North America, attracting large diaspora populations. Between 2017 and 2022, Afrobeats saw a 550% growth in streams on Spotify, propelling artists to global stardom.

Today, Afrobeats artists fill stadiums worldwide and have gained recognition in mainstream award ceremonies. Drummer's photo book, 'Eagle Eye', showcases the journey of Afrobeats from its humble beginnings to a cultural phenomenon embraced by audiences around the globe.

Non-African artists like Chris Brown have also embraced the Afrobeats sound, collaborating with Nigerian musicians and introducing the genre to new audiences. Drummer's photographs capture the energy and emotion of these cross-cultural collaborations, offering a glimpse into the vibrant world of Afrobeats.

Through his lens, Drummer not only captures iconic moments but also conveys the essence and emotion of Afrobeats, inviting viewers to experience the music through his eyes. His images reveal both the public performances and private reflections of Afrobeats stars, providing a unique perspective on the genre's evolution and impact.

According to the source: BBC.