Senegalese-American singer Akon has sparked a wave of backlash from Nigerians after claiming credit for the creation of the globally popular Afrobeats genre.
His remarks, made during a recent interview with American talk show host Sherri Shepherd, have drawn sharp criticism from fans and musicians alike.
In the interview, Akon discussed his involvement in the early stages of Afrobeats, particularly through collaborations with Nigerian artists in the late 2000s.
He reflected on his work with Nigerian stars like Wizkid, PSquare, and D’banj, suggesting that his contributions helped shape what is now known as Afrobeats.
“I was in Africa, and time just flew past. 2008 was my last official album, ‘Freedom,’” Akon recalled.
“Then I was producing the music for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. From there, I went to Nigeria. What we created in Nigeria was what you see and hear now as Afrobeats.”
He continued, “Wizkid was the first Nigerian artist we signed in 2008. We worked with him and Banky W in Nigeria. From there, we began developing artists like PSquare, D’banj, and others.”
While Akon’s comments were likely intended to highlight his support for African music, they were met with immediate backlash on Nigerian social media.
Many users accused him of overstating his influence and trying to rewrite the history of Afrobeats.
“He needs to stop lying,” wrote @Loadedbrodah on X (formerly Twitter). “Akon lies effortlessly just like Shaq!”
“Akon is trying to rewrite Afrobeats history,” added @Ms_Fej.
User @paul_osigbemhe1 challenged Akon’s version of events, saying, “Akon did not open doors for Nigerian music.
PSquare, D’banj, and others were already a huge force in African music long before I even knew Akon was from Senegal.”
Another critic, @Bisping_Chad, pointed out a discrepancy in Akon’s timeline: “Wizkid didn’t sign with you in 2008.
Akon is lying, or maybe he just doesn’t remember the year. PSquare even rejected his contract.”
Some users dismissed his claims entirely.
“Anyone who takes Akon seriously is foolish,” wrote @KirkHammettR. “Since he stopped making music, he’s resorted to clout-chasing and causing drama in the African music scene. Afrobeats was already booming before you showed up.”
Others clarified the distinction between “Afrobeat,” the genre pioneered by Nigerian legend Fela Kuti in the 1960s, and “Afrobeats,” the modern genre shaped by West African pop artists.
“This is a big lie,” said @Shirex_. “Afrobeat was created by Fela Kuti. Akon may have helped promote African music, but he didn’t create Afrobeats. He contributed to its modern popularity, though.”
Despite the controversy, Afrobeats continues to thrive globally.
In 2023, the genre achieved new milestones, with artists like Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Davido performing at major international events and topping global music charts.