Media Talk Africa: Latest Headlines in Politics, Business, Sports, and More

Nigerian Afrobeats star Davido has released a music video for his track 10 Kilo that includes a heartfelt tribute to the late Sound Sultan, a celebrated pioneer of the genre who died in 2021. Directed by filmmaker Director Pink, the visuals feature a banner displaying Sound Sultan’s photograph, accompanied by vibrant scenes of plus-size models dancing—a nod to the song’s theme of celebrating fuller-figured women. The homage draws parallels to Sound Sultan’s 2013 hit Orobo, which similarly praised body positivity and became a cultural anthem across West Africa.

The lyrical and thematic overlap between 10 Kilo and Orobo underscores a shared artistic vision. Sound Sultan’s original track, later remixed with Nigerian singer Flavour, dominated charts for years, resonating for its empowering message and catchy Afrobeat rhythms. Davido’s tribute arrives as the latest in a series of public acknowledgments from Nigerian artists honoring Sound Sultan’s legacy since his passing at age 44 from complications of angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma. Notable musicians like 2Face, Burna Boy, Spyro, and Sean Tizzle have previously paid respects to the late icon through performances and social media tributes.

Widely regarded as a trailblazer for modern Afrobeats, Sound Sultan’s career spanned decades, with hits like Jagabantis, Natural Something, and Very Good Bad Guy cementing his influence. His work blended social commentary with infectious melodies, helping propel the genre onto international stages. The inclusion of his image in Davido’s video not only reflects nostalgia but also underscores the enduring relevance of his contributions to music and cultural representation.

Fans and critics have praised the tribute as a bridge connecting generations of Afrobeats artistry. The video’s focus on body positivity, paired with its visual acknowledgment of Sound Sultan’s legacy, highlights continuity in advocating for inclusivity within Nigerian pop culture. As Afrobeats continues gaining global traction, such homages serve as reminders of the artists who laid its foundations, ensuring their impact remains visible in contemporary works.