Akon has revealed how Banky W introduced Wizkid to him before the Nigerian singer became an international Afrobeats star.
The Senegalese-American singer explained that Banky W discovered Wizkid and brought him to his attention during a visit to Nigeria. He also opened up about why he missed the opportunity to sign Canadian rapper Drake early in his career.
Banky W Introduced Wizkid To Akon Before His Rise
Akon said Banky W played a key role in connecting him with Wizkid, who was then developing his career under Empire Mates Entertainment (EME).
During an interview with The Shade Room, Akon said he recognised Wizkid’s talent after meeting him through Banky W.
“Banky W discovered Wizkid. That’s how that collaboration happened. I went to Nigeria, and Banky brought me Wiz,” Akon said.
Wizkid had signed with EME in 2009 before releasing his debut album, Superstar, in 2011. The album produced hit songs including “Holla at Your Boy” and helped establish him as one of Nigeria’s leading music acts.
Akon said his involvement helped Wizkid gain exposure in the United States at a time when Afrobeats was still growing internationally.
Reveals Why He Could Not Sign Drake
Akon also discussed his attempt to sign Drake around 2008, saying the deal did not happen because of the financial terms involved.
According to Akon, Drake was still an emerging artiste at the time and requested a $1 million deal.
He explained that he saw potential in the Canadian rapper but could not afford the amount being requested.
Akon added that Drake’s early music did not yet show the sound that would later make him a global superstar. He became more interested after Drake released “Best I Ever Had”, but by then the rapper’s market value had increased.
Drake later became one of the world’s biggest music artists, while Wizkid continued to expand his career through collaborations with global acts including Beyoncé, Chris Brown, Tems and Justin Bieber.
