Shizzi Says Afrobeats Is in a Strange Phase as Many Songs Fail to Connect

Renowned Nigerian producer Shizzi recently shared his thoughts on the current state of Afrobeats, describing it as a “weird phase” where many new releases aren’t truly resonating with listeners. Posting on his X page, Shizzi pointed out that although the genre continues to churn out numerous songs daily, only a small number manage to connect deeply with audiences.

“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,” he wrote, capturing a growing concern among industry insiders and fans alike.

Shizzi’s observation adds to an ongoing discussion about Nigerian pop music’s recent challenges. Over the past two years, many have noted a decline in the impact and staying power of Afrobeats hits. The genre struggled in 2024 to produce crossover hits that matched the success and longevity of previous years, both locally and internationally.

This slowdown has also raised questions about the industry’s ability to consistently develop new stars who can sustain the genre’s global momentum. While 2025 has started on a somewhat positive note for Afrobeats, uncertainties remain, especially around the genre’s international reach. Some artists have reportedly canceled planned tours in major markets like America and Europe, further fueling concerns about Afrobeats’ global acceptance.

Given Shizzi’s influential role in shaping the Afrobeats sound—he produced Davido’s iconic track “Dami Duro” among other hits—his insights carry significant weight. His perspective reflects the experiences of many producers, artists, and fans who are eager for the genre to regain its strong connection with audiences.

It’s important to note that this pattern isn’t unique to Nigerian music. Other global music scenes have also faced similar cycles, where periods of creative abundance are followed by phases of diminishing returns. In the U.S., for example, declining ticket sales have forced some artists to perform in smaller venues or cancel shows altogether.

As Afrobeats continues to evolve, industry watchers hope for a revival that will bring fresh, resonant sounds capable of captivating listeners both at home and abroad. Shizzi’s candid comment may well serve as a call to action for artists, producers, and stakeholders to innovate and reconnect with what makes Afrobeats so powerful.