Nigerian music icon, D’banj has highlighted Kanye West’s significant role in bringing Afrobeats to the global music scene.

According to the singer, the American rapper and music executive was the first international artist to embrace the genre and help propel it into Western consciousness.

Speaking on a recent episode of the Listen podcast, D’banj shared how Kanye West’s enthusiasm for African music led to a pivotal moment in his career.

He revealed that this passion was instrumental in West signing him and producer Don Jazzy to his GOOD Music record label.

“The first time I met Kanye West in Dubai, he told me he had been learning about Afrobeats from university students,” D’banj recounted.

“He wanted to explore the sound. His interest in African music opened doors for us [Don Jazzy and me], leading to the deal with GOOD Music.

“Kanye wasn’t just a fan; he was committed to elevating Afrobeats to new heights.”

Kanye West’s influence extended beyond business, as he also appeared in the music video for D’banj’s 2012 international hit Oliver Twist.

This collaboration marked a milestone in the crossover appeal of Afrobeats and solidified West’s role as a trailblazer in supporting the genre.