Music star and entrepreneur Akon has opened up about the decision that led him to sign Nigerian singer Wizkid in 2008 instead of Canadian rapper Drake.
Speaking during a recent interview, Akon revealed that Drake was still an upcoming artist at the time and was asking for a $1 million signing deal, a figure he considered too high.
According to him, Drake had not yet developed the signature sound that would later make him one of the biggest names in global music.Akon said his connection to Wizkid came through Banky W and Empire Mates Entertainment. After meeting the young singer in Nigeria, he immediately recognized his talent and believed he had the potential to become a global star.
He explained that Banky W played a major role in discovering and developing Wizkid’s career before they worked together. Akon added that his own involvement helped introduce Wizkid to the American music market, giving him greater international exposure and helping to expand his reach beyond Africa.Reflecting on the experience, Akon praised both Wizkid’s talent and Banky W’s vision, saying their collaboration created opportunities that helped shape Wizkid’s rise on the global stage.
