Wizkid’s Musical Muse: How Women Inspire the Afrobeats Star’s Career and Success
Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, globally known as Wizkid, isn’t just one of Africa’s most successful musicians—he’s a storyteller whose music resonates with millions worldwide. The Grammy-winning Nigerian singer has repeatedly credited one powerful source of inspiration for his artistic expression: women.
In a now-deleted post on X (formerly Twitter), the Afrobeats superstar succinctly expressed this sentiment, writing, “Women inspire music! Gods on earth.” This statement offers a glimpse into the profound impact that women have had on Wizkid’s life, artistry, and journey to global stardom.
Women as Wizkid’s Creative Muse
Wizkid’s music has long been a tribute to the beauty, strength, and complexity of women. His discography is filled with romantic ballads, sensual melodies, and lyrics that celebrate love, passion, and relationships. Tracks like “Ojuelegba,” “Fever,” “Essence,” and “Joro” showcase his ability to blend Afrobeats with themes of romance and desire, often painting vivid pictures of his admiration for the women who inspire him.
But his reverence for women isn’t just reflected in his lyrics. It’s also evident in the way he collaborates with female artists, supports women in the industry, and dedicates his projects to the women who have shaped his life.
‘Morayo’: A Heartfelt Tribute to His Late Mother
Wizkid’s latest album, Morayo, stands as a deeply personal project dedicated to his late mother, Morayo Jane Balogun, who passed away earlier this year. The album title itself is a homage to her, and the songs within reflect a mix of grief, love, and gratitude for the woman who played a pivotal role in his life.
In interviews, Wizkid has often spoken about his mother’s influence, describing her as a source of strength and guidance. Her passing marked a significant moment in his life, and Morayo serves as both a tribute and a way to keep her memory alive through his art.
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The emotional depth of the album has resonated with fans globally, breaking records on streaming platforms. Morayo shattered Tyla’s record for the most first-week streams for an African album on Spotify, amassing an impressive 48 million streams in just six days. It went on to set a new record for the biggest opening week for an African album on Spotify with 52.8 million streams.
Collaborating with Female Powerhouses
Throughout his career, Wizkid has also shown a keen interest in uplifting female voices in the music industry. His collaborations with powerful female artists have not only showcased his versatility but also highlighted his respect for their talent and artistry.
One of his most notable partnerships is with Nigerian singer Tems on the global hit “Essence.” The song, which became the first Nigerian song to chart on the Billboard Hot 100, is a testament to the magic that can happen when male and female artists collaborate. Wizkid’s smooth vocals, combined with Tems’ soulful delivery, created a global anthem that celebrated love and intimacy.
Other collaborations, such as with Tiwa Savage on “Bad” and Beyonce on “Brown Skin Girl,” further emphasize Wizkid’s commitment to working with and elevating female artists. These collaborations have not only expanded his reach but have also contributed to the global recognition of Afrobeats as a genre led by both men and women.
Empowering Women Through His Music
Wizkid’s music often goes beyond romantic admiration to include empowering messages for women. In “Brown Skin Girl,” a track that celebrates the beauty of dark-skinned women, Wizkid’s voice is part of a larger narrative promoting self-love and confidence. The song became an anthem for Black women worldwide, celebrating their beauty, culture, and strength.
Through his music, Wizkid has helped shift the narrative around women in African music, positioning them not just as muses but as equals and partners in creative expression.
A Legacy Built on Love and Inspiration
As Wizkid continues to break records and redefine Afrobeats on the global stage, the influence of women remains central to his success. Whether through the love of his late mother, the inspiration drawn from romantic relationships, or the creative partnerships with female artists, women are at the heart of his artistry.
In a world where the music industry often overlooks the contributions and influence of women, Wizkid’s acknowledgment and celebration of their impact set him apart. His music isn’t just about beats and lyrics—it’s about connection, emotion, and paying homage to the women who have shaped him into the artist he is today.
With Morayo breaking records and touching hearts worldwide, Wizkid reminds us that behind every great artist is a story—and for him, that story is one of love, gratitude, and the power of women.
