Senegalese-American singer Akon has praised Wizkid for his contribution to the global success of Afrobeats, recalling that the Grammy-winning artist was already writing songs for established musicians as a teenager.

Speaking during a recent episode of the ‘We Need To Talk’ podcast, Akon said his mission had always been to create opportunities for African artists to gain international recognition rather than compete with them.

“Like I was in a position where I was not looking to compete with my brothers and sisters, I needed them to be where I was at because I was tired of being there by myself. And I know that there were people out there who sang and ran circles around me; they exist in Africa,” he said.

“My tone is just the one you heard; there was more like me, and that was my goal. My goal was to ensure that everyone understood that I was just one of almost two billion people who actually have some kind of talent that could be showcased to the rest of the world.”

Akon also reflected on meeting Wizkid at a young age, describing the singer as exceptionally gifted long before he rose to international fame.

“I would want to say that Wiz was about maybe 14, 15, he was a kid. That is why they called him Wizkid; he was literally a wizard at that age. Like he was writing other artistes, including Banky W. He was brilliant,” he said.