Jaywon Says Gospel and Afrobeats Stars Are Copying His Hit Song This Year
Nigerian singer Jaywon has claimed that many gospel and Afrobeats artists have been copying the style and sound of his 2012 hit track, “This Year.”
The singer made this statement while reacting to Billboard’s list of the Best Afrobeats Songs of All Time, which did not include his song. Jaywon expressed disappointment that despite the cultural impact and longevity of his hit, it was left out of the ranking.
Taking to his official X account, Jaywon wrote that “This Year” has remained relevant for more than a decade and continues to trend yearly. According to him, no other song on the list carries as much cultural weight as his track. He added that both gospel and Afrobeats singers have repeatedly used the same vibe from his song, proving its lasting influence.
“‘This Year’ by Jaywon had more viral moments and cultural impact than some of the tracks Billboard ranked. It has been trending since 2012 and is still relevant today. Who else has achieved that? Year after year, both gospel and Afrobeats singers copy the same vibe, but we remain unshaken,” he wrote.
Billboard’s list placed 2Face Idibia’s African Queen at number one, followed by other iconic songs such as Wizkid’s Ojuelegba, Flavour’s Nwa Baby, Rema’s Calm Down, and CKay’s Love Nwantiti in the top five. Jaywon’s absence from the ranking sparked debate among fans who agreed that “This Year” has remained one of the most consistent and replayed Nigerian songs over the years.
Away from the Billboard controversy, Jaywon also stirred conversation recently when he commented on the dressing style of Grammy-nominated Afrobeats singer Ayra Starr. After a fan asked him on X about a revealing photo Ayra Starr posted in a small blue bra, Jaywon replied, “She no get mama and papa?”
His statement attracted mixed reactions online. While some agreed with his criticism, others felt he was wrong to comment on Ayra Starr’s personal life. The singer has often faced criticism for her choice of outfits, but she has continued to defend her style and identity.
Ayra Starr has previously spoken about her background, revealing that she lost her father at a young age and was raised by her mother. Despite online backlash, she has continued to embrace her fashion choices, which have become part of her brand.
Jaywon’s comments, both about his music and fellow artists, continue to spark debates in the Nigerian entertainment industry. His claim about the influence of “This Year” adds to the ongoing conversation about which songs have shaped Afrobeats and gospel music over the years.
