Senegalese-American music star Akon has revealed that he signed Nigerian singer Wizkid after Banky W introduced the young artiste to him, insisting that Banky W deserves the credit for discovering the Afrobeats star.
Speaking during an interview with The Shade Room, Akon explained that he immediately recognised Wizkid’s potential during a visit to Nigeria and decided to sign him to help expand his reach into the United States at a time when the local music industry had limited global exposure.
He dismissed claims that he discovered Wizkid, saying Banky W had already identified and developed the singer before their meeting.
Akon also disclosed that he once considered signing Canadian rapper Drake around 2008 but abandoned the deal because the artiste demanded $1 million, an amount he could not afford.
He added that Drake had not yet found the unique sound that later propelled him to international stardom with Best I Ever Had.