Renowned Nigerian music producer Shizzi has voiced his concern over the current state of Afrobeats, suggesting that the genre is going through a rough patch where most releases are failing to truly resonate with listeners.
In a post shared on his X (formerly Twitter) page on May 20, 2025, the hitmaker reflected on the quality and impact of recent Afrobeats songs:
“Afrobeats has been going through a weird phase in the past 2 years. So many songs come out every day, but only a few truly resonate.”
Shizzi’s statement echoes the sentiments of many fans and industry insiders who have noticed a drop in the emotional and cultural connection once characteristic of Afrobeats hits. Despite the high volume of releases, fewer songs seem to stick, dominate conversations, or achieve significant longevity.
Over the past two years, the Nigerian pop scene has faced criticism for a perceived lack of depth and innovation, with many releases struggling to achieve the crossover success of earlier hits. In 2024, for example, Afrobeats failed to produce a major global anthem, while many local hits quickly lost momentum.
Beyond the music itself, concerns have also grown around the industry’s ability to nurture fresh talent. The pipeline that once produced breakout stars seems less active, leading to worries about the genre’s sustainability and evolution.
Although 2025 has seen some promising signs, including notable album releases and chart placements, Afrobeats is still facing challenges in global markets, with several artists cancelling scheduled tours in North America and Europe due to low ticket sales and logistical issues.
Shizzi’s perspective carries weight, considering his legacy as the producer behind some of Afrobeats’ most iconic records, including Davido’s breakout hit “Dami Duro.” His insight adds to the ongoing conversation about the future of Nigerian pop music and the need to reignite creativity, authenticity, and connection within the genre.
While this phase may be a natural ebb in the cycle of a global sound, it’s clear that voices like Shizzi’s are calling for a renewed focus on quality, originality, and emotional resonance, elements that helped put Afrobeats on the map in the first place.
