Senegalese-American music icon Akon has opened up about his legendary career, placing a massive spotlight on the incredible talent emerging from Africa. While reflecting on his global achievements, the singer took a moment to shower immense praise on the Nigerian people and their dominant role in the music industry.
Speaking on a recent episode of the ‘We Need To Talk’ podcast, the music mogul expressed profound admiration for the intellectual capacity of the West African nation. He singled out their unprecedented global impact, highlighting how they have single-handedly revolutionized the music landscape through the rise of Afrobeats.
Emphasizing his deep respect for the country’s citizens, Akon made a striking declaration about their natural capabilities. “Nigerians are the most intelligent people on the planet. They have done amazingly well with Afrobeats,” he added.
The 53-year-old music star also spoke passionately about his long-standing support for African music. He recalled how he recognized the immense potential of the continent early on, which led him to associate with and sign prominent Nigerian Afrobeats artists during the genre’s foundational years.
Among the notable names he worked with, Akon mentioned his early partnerships with the legendary duo P-Square and the global superstar Wizkid. He noted that these collaborations helped pave the way for the international explosion of the sound that the world enjoys today.
He, however, clarified the business structure behind his relationship with Wizkid, noting he didn’t sign him directly to his own label. Instead, his involvement came through a strategic partnership with Banky W’s Empire Mates Entertainment, the powerhouse imprint Wizkid was originally signed to.
Aside from his high regard for Nigerians, the hitmaker also relished his historic opportunity of working alongside the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson. Describing the rare collaboration as a monumental milestone, Akon labeled the experience as the absolute “proudest moment” of his entire musical career.
To illustrate the gravity of the experience, Akon explained that despite his own massive success at the time, he felt completely humbled in Jackson’s presence. “My photo with Michael Jackson is my most proudest photo. I was already a full blown celebrity at the point the photo was taken. But I am a child compared to this man (Michael Jackson). I was so happy because I grew up looking up to him. He is like everybody’s Idol,” he said.
