Wizkid has revealed that he originally owned the song “Alive.” He passed the record to British singer Jorja Smith. The Grammy-winning artist made the disclosure during a recent media appearance.
Wizkid has a long history of collaboration and songwriting. He has written for and with numerous artists. In 2016, he featured on Drake’s “One Dance,” which became a global hit. He has worked with Beyoncé, Skepta and H.E.R. Passing songs to other artists is common in the music industry. Songs are traded, sold and reworked. Ownership credits determine royalties. Wizkid’s disclosure is not unusual. It is a reminder that the creative process involves collaboration and exchange.
The revelation generated discussion among fans. Some praised Wizkid for supporting Jorja Smith. Others questioned why he gave away a song that could have been a hit. The answer lies in timing and strategy. Artists sometimes hold songs that do not fit their current project. They pass them to collaborators who can execute them better. Jorja Smith released “Alive” in 2020. It was well received. Wizkid’s disclosure adds context to the song’s history.
The broader issue is credit and compensation. In Afrobeats, songwriting credits are sometimes disputed. Artists have clashed over ownership. Wizkid’s statement is a clarification, not a dispute. It highlights the collaborative nature of music. It also reminds fans that the songs they hear often have complex origins.
Winners: Wizkid, who gains attention and demonstrates generosity. Jorja Smith, whose song gains renewed interest. Fans, who learn about the creative process. Losers: No obvious losers. If credit disputes arise later, the situation could change. For now, the disclosure is benign.
Bottom Line: Wizkid gave “Alive” to Jorja Smith. That is how music works. Songs move between artists. The disclosure is a reminder that ownership is not always obvious.