Senegalese-American music star Akon has opened up about what he describes as a defining role in the rise of Afrobeats, particularly in Nigeria. In a recent interview on Sherri, the Konvict Muzik founder reflected on how his early involvement with Nigerian artists helped shape the genre into a global movement.
“Wizkid was the first Nigerian artist we signed—this was back in 2008,” Akon said, speaking with the confidence of someone recounting history from the frontlines. “We went to work with him and Banky W in Nigeria, and from there, it just spiraled into something bigger than we could imagine.”
According to Akon, the foundations of Afrobeats as it is known today were being laid between 2008 and the early 2010s, when he worked closely with artists like P-Square, D’banj, and others who were defining a new sound in African music. He emphasized that his involvement wasn’t just casual—it was strategic and intentional.
“From 2008, when I released my Freedom album, I shifted focus. I was working on music for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, and that took me deeper into the continent,” he said. “What we created in Nigeria during that time is what you’re hearing now as Afrobeats.”
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Though Afrobeats as a genre has roots in decades-old African musical traditions, Akon suggests his contributions during its modern rebirth helped unlock the doors to international success.
“I feel like it’s a divine assignment,” he said. “God put me in that position to open doors for others. I don’t always know who will be the next star, but every time I get involved, something good comes out of it—and I’m grateful for that.”
Akon’s Konvict Muzik played a key role in bridging the gap between African artists and the global music market, at a time when international collaborations with African musicians were still rare. His early co-signs of artists like Wizkid and D’banj helped position them for global exposure long before Afrobeats became a worldwide phenomenon.
While some critics might see his claims as bold, there’s no denying Akon’s influence during that crucial transition period in the Nigerian music scene. Today, Afrobeats is a mainstay on international charts, and artists like Wizkid are global household names.
Whether as a talent scout, collaborator, or cultural bridge, Akon sees his role as part of something larger than himself. “I’m just a beacon,” he said. “The success isn’t about me—it’s about what we’ve helped others become.”
