Noneillah Music Review: Wizkid & His Iconic Female Collaborations in Afrobeat
Afrobeats superstar Wizkid has long been known not just for his smooth vocals and rich, rhythmic production—but for how he brings out the best in his collaborators, especially the women in the game. On Noneillah’s Sunday Music Pick, three standout tracks take the spotlight:
1. Wizkid – “2 Sugar” (feat. Ayra Starr)
A slow-burning Afrobeat groove, "2 Sugar" is the definition of effortless cool. Ayra Starr’s airy yet powerful vocals blend seamlessly with Wizkid’s sultry tone, creating a soundscape of vulnerability and independence. The beat feels minimal but intentional—setting the mood for late-night reflections or chill drives.
Ayra’s line “Don’t mix me with no bad energy” hits like a mantra, and her performance here cements her rising star status. Wizkid supports her with maturity, not overshadowing but complementing. This track is a masterclass in Afro-R&B synergy.
Noneillah’s Take: A worthy Sunday pick. The chemistry is undeniable and sets a calming yet empowering tone.
2. Wizkid – “Essence” (feat. Tems)
Dubbed “the song of the summer” in 2021, “Essence” transcended borders. Tems’ velvety, yearning delivery made this song a global hit, and Wizkid’s melodic pacing gave it just the right amount of sex appeal and serenity.
The magic here lies in the emotional resonance—a track that speaks to intimacy, craving, and connection. This wasn’t just a song; it became a cultural movement, marking a major win for Afrobeats on the world stage.
Noneillah’s Take: Tems made the track unforgettable. It’s not just a collaboration; it’s a moment in music history.
3. Tyla x Wizkid – “DYNAMITE”
This recent collaboration between South African pop queen Tyla and Wizkid sparked major buzz—not just for the music, but for the identity controversy it stirred. Musically, “DYNAMITE” is sleek, vibrant, and catchy. Tyla’s voice glides over the beat with confidence and flair, matching Wizkid’s mellow swagger perfectly.
However, the real conversation sparked off-stage.
Cultural Commentary: Identity Clash and Misunderstandings
Tyla faced backlash, particularly from AmericanAfrican communities, after stating that she identifies as “coloured” rather than “Black”—a term tied to South Africa’s unique racial categorization shaped by apartheid.
In the U.S., “Black” is embraced as a term of empowerment and historical acknowledgment of ancestral pain, survival, and cultural pride. But in South Africa, “Coloured” holds a different socio-political meaning tied to a specific mixed-heritage group identity. To many South Africans, it is not a derogatory term—it is an ethnic classification.
While some Americans African feel slighted by Tyla’s distancing from the term “Black,” there’s a deeper need for cross-cultural understanding. As Noneillah points out, the term "Black" was a colonial imposition, one that many people now reclaim. But it’s also true that different regions experience racial identity through their own complex histories.
Noneillah’s Take: “The American so-called Black people need to educate themselves about South African history.” Tyla’s identity choice isn’t rejection—it’s reflection of a different past.
4. Ayra Starr – “Gimme Dat” (feat. Wizkid)
Back again with Ayra, this track is sultry and upbeat—perfect for dancefloors or late-night playlists. Ayra takes the lead with energetic flirtation, and Wizkid enters smooth and calculated. Their voices bounce off each other with chemistry that feels youthful yet grown.
Noneillah’s Take: Another Ayra + Wizkid win. They understand how to craft tracks that balance softness with strength.
Final Thoughts: What’s Wizkid’s Best Female Collaboration?
It’s hard to choose, but here’s a breakdown:
Best Chemistry: Wizkid & Ayra Starr on “2 Sugar”
Most Iconic: Wizkid & Tems on “Essence”
Most Controversial Yet Bold: Wizkid & Tyla on “DYNAMITE”
Most Fun & Fresh: Ayra Starr & Wizkid on “Gimme Dat”
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