Senegalese-American singer Akon has highlighted the influence of Nigerian superstar Wizkid in the international growth of Afrobeats, describing the genre’s global recognition as a collective achievement driven by African talent.
Speaking on the We Need To Talk podcast, the 53-year-old artist reflected on his long-standing efforts to promote African music and create global platforms for artistes from the continent.
Akon said his goal was never to compete with other African musicians but to help expand opportunities for them on the world stage.
“Like I was in a position where I was not looking to compete with my brothers and sisters, I needed them to be where I was at because I was tired of being there by myself. And I know that there were people out there who sang and ran circles around me; they exist in Africa,” he said.
He added that his vision was to show the world the depth of African talent and its global potential.
“My tone is just the one you heard; there was more like me, and that was my goal. My goal was to ensure that everyone understood that I was just one of almost two billion people who actually have some kind of talent that could be showcased to the rest of the world.”
Akon also recounted his early encounter with Wizkid, noting that the singer displayed remarkable talent even as a teenager.
“I would want to say that Wiz was about maybe 14, 15, he was a kid. That is why they called him Wizkid; he was literally a wizard at that age. Like he was writing other artistes, including Banky W. He was brilliant,” he said.
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Prompt News reports he described Wizkid as one of the early standout talents who helped shape the sound and direction of Afrobeats as it gained global attention.
Akon also reiterated that he played a role in supporting the development of Afrobeats during its early push toward international recognition.
