Akon Reflects on His Role in Shaping Afrobeats and Elevating African Artists

In a recent interview with American actress Sherri Shepherd, the singer discussed his pivotal role in the global expansion of Afrobeats and his instrumental support for Nigerian artists such as P-Square and D’banj. Akon’s insights shed light on his early recognition of Afrobeats’ potential and his efforts to bridge African talent with international audiences.

Akon’s involvement with Nigerian music began in the late 2000s. In 2008, he signed Wizkid to his Konvict Muzik label in collaboration with Sony Music, marking a significant step in bringing Afrobeats to the global stage. Following this, he partnered with the Nigerian duo P-Square, leading to the release of the hit single “Chop My Money” in 2012. This collaboration not only showcased P-Square’s talent but also introduced Afrobeats to a broader audience. Akon’s approach involved blending traditional African sounds with contemporary Western influences, making the genre more accessible to international listeners.

P-Square, consisting of twin brothers Peter and Paul Okoye, gained prominence in the mid-2000s with their unique blend of Afropop, R&B, and hip hop. Their partnership with Akon further propelled their career, culminating in their performance at the Mawazine Festival in Morocco in 2015, where they became the first Afrobeats artists to perform before over 100,000 spectators. This milestone underscored the duo’s international appeal and the growing recognition of Afrobeats on the global stage.

Reflecting on his contributions, Akon emphasized his commitment to exposing African talent to the world. He stated, “My goal was to expose the talent in Africa. I collaborated with African artists so people can use me to discover the talents in Nigeria.” His efforts he said has been instrumental in the genre’s evolution, blending traditional African rhythms with global music trends.

Afrobeats, distinct from Afrobeat, is characterized by its fusion of various musical styles, including highlife, hip hop, dancehall, and funk. The genre has experienced significant growth, with artists like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido achieving international acclaim. Akon’s early collaborations played a crucial role in this expansion, serving as a bridge between African artists and the global music industry.