Akon Reveals How He Signed Wizkid Through Banky W

Senegalese-American singer Akon has shared details about how he became involved in Wizkid’s early music career, saying he signed the Nigerian star after being introduced to him by Banky W during a visit to Nigeria.

Speaking in a recent interview, Akon dismissed claims that he discovered Wizkid, stressing that Banky W deserves the credit for identifying and developing the young singer’s talent.

According to Akon, Banky W introduced Wizkid to him at a time when resources were limited. After meeting the rising artist, Akon immediately recognized his potential and decided to sign him, helping to open doors for Wizkid in the United States.

Akon explained that his support helped expose Wizkid to the American music market before Afrobeats gained worldwide popularity.

The music executive also spoke about a missed opportunity to sign Canadian rapper Drake in the late 2000s. He said Drake was asking for a $1 million signing deal, which was beyond his budget at the time.

Akon recalled that Drake’s early music sounded different from the style that later made him a global superstar. He said he became more interested in Drake’s music after the release of the hit song Best I Ever Had, but by then the rapper had become too expensive to sign.

Wizkid, whose real name is Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, was discovered by Banky W in 2009 and signed to Empire Mates Entertainment (EME).

He rose to fame with his breakthrough single Holla at Your Boy from his debut album Superstar.

After leaving EME in 2013, Wizkid launched his own record label, Starboy Entertainment, and has since become one of Africa’s most successful international artists.

He has collaborated with global stars including Drake, Beyoncé, Chris Brown, Tems, Skepta and Justin Bieber.

Join us on our WhatsApp Platform @KOIKIMEDIA NEWS YOUR PAGE

koikimedia Bringing the World 🌏 Closer to Your Doorstep