Senegalese-American singer and music executive, Akon, has explained why he signed Nigerian singer Wizkid in 2008 instead of Canadian rapper Drake.
Speaking in a recent interview with The Shade Room, Akon explained that he signed Wizkid through Banky W’s Empire Mate Entertainment because of Drake’s financial demands.
He added that Drake was still an emerging artist and had not developed the sound that would later make him a global superstar “and was requesting a whooping $1 million to sign for me”.
Akon claimed that he introduced Wizkid into the American market. He, however, credited Banky W for discovering and nurturing Wizkid’s talent.
“Banky W discovered Wizkid. That’s how that collaboration went. I went to Nigeria, and Banky brought me Wiz, and I’m like: ‘Bro! This kid is a star.’ They had limited resources, so when I signed Wiz, that was what broke him into the United States,” Akon stated.
![Davido accuses Israel DMW of leaking his unreleased song [VIDEO]](https://dailypost.ng/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Davido-isreal-DMW-300x180.jpg)
Davido accuses Israel DMW of leaking his unreleased song [VIDEO]
Actress Omotunde Ogundimu reveals battle with cervical cancer, solicits financial help
Being celebrity expensive, I spend N400m monthly – Davido
‘Beg my father to set me free’ – Singer Adelakun’s 37-year-old daughter cries out
‘Prison worse than being broke’ – Reactions trail video of DJ Chicken in Kirikiri
Burna Boy becomes first African artiste to top Billboard Global 200 chart
Wumi Toriola renews friendship with Seyi Edun after five years feud
My wife is super homely despite meeting her in club – Rapper, Vector
‘I abandoned myself for work’ – Funke Akindele reveals secret of her success
