What we created in Nigeria is what you see and hear now – Akon claims major role in Afrobeats rise

Senegalese-American music icon Akon has discussed his role in Afrobeats. This genre now has global recognition and originates from West Africa.

In a recent interview with Sherri Shepherd, Akon shared his experiences in Africa. He recalled how time flew by during his visits in the late 2000s.

“I was in Africa and time just flew past,” he said. “2008 was my last official album, which was the ‘Freedom’ album.”

Akon's time in Africa included producing music for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. He noted that this experience marked a key moment in African music history.

“I produced the music for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa,” he explained. “From there, I went to Nigeria. What we created there became Afrobeats.”

Akon revealed that his label's first major engagement in Nigeria was with Wizkid. Wizkid is now one of Afrobeats' biggest global stars.

“Wizkid was the first Nigerian artist we signed back in 2008,” he said. “We worked with him and Banky W in Nigeria.”

He also mentioned that his team helped develop other Afrobeats pioneers. “From there, we started developing artists like PSquare, Dbanj, and others,” he added.