David Ochayi
(Akon and Wizkid. Photo Credit: Punch News)
Renowned Senegalese-American artist Akon has shared intriguing details about his role in shaping Wizkid’s early career. Contrary to popular belief, he clarified that he was not the one who discovered the Nigerian superstar—rather, it was Banky W who first recognized Wizkid’s extraordinary talent before bringing him to Akon’s attention during a trip to Nigeria.
In a viral interview, Akon set the record straight, emphasizing that Banky W deserves full credit for scouting and nurturing Wizkid before their introduction. He described how, upon meeting the young singer, he instantly saw his immense potential and played a crucial part in propelling Wizkid’s career beyond Nigerian borders.
Akon highlighted that without his strategic move to sign Wizkid, the artist might not have gained the same international exposure, particularly in the U.S., where African music was still gaining traction at the time.
In the same conversation, Akon also revisited his near-signing of Drake, admitting he turned down the opportunity in 2008 due to financial constraints. He recalled Drake’s early style as heavily influenced by Eminem, noting that it wasn’t until Drake dropped “Best I Ever Had” that his unique artistry became undeniable. By then, Drake’s skyrocketing fame had made him unaffordable.
Wizkid’s rise, on the other hand, began under Banky W’s EME label in 2009, where standout singles like “Holla at Your Boy” and “Pakurumo” from his debut album, Superstar, cemented his status as a trailblazing Afrobeats act. After departing EME in 2013, Wizkid founded Starboy Entertainment, unlocking collaborations with A-listers like Beyoncé, Drake, and Justin Bieber, proving his global appeal.
