Music icon Kanye West has once again stirred conversation within the entertainment industry, this time urging American rappers to take lessons from Nigerian artists in terms of business acumen and career management.

During a recent interview with DJ Akademiks, the billionaire rapper, producer, and entrepreneur shared his thoughts on the differences between how American and Nigerian musicians approach their careers.

He lamented that many U.S. artists are too dependent on external management, lawyers, and record labels, while Nigerian musicians, in contrast, have demonstrated strong financial independence and industry control.

Kanye West’s Perspective on the Music Business

Kanye West, who has long been vocal about artist empowerment and financial independence, expressed frustration over the way many American artists handle their careers.

He noted that most rappers in the U.S. do not fully understand their contracts, finances, or business strategies, making them vulnerable to industry exploitation.

He stated:

“Until motherfckers can really get their stuff together like the Nigerians, the Chinese, the Jewish, or like the tech Indian or some sht, everything I’m saying counts.”

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West believes that Nigerian artists, alongside Jewish businesspeople, Chinese entrepreneurs, and Indian tech innovators, have mastered the art of self-sufficiency.

According to him, these groups have figured out how to navigate industries without overly relying on external investors or corporate control.

His comments have sparked discussions online, with many agreeing that Nigerian artists have shown remarkable growth, resilience, and strategic thinking in the music business.

The Rise of Nigerian Artists and Their Business Model

West’s remarks align with a larger trend—the global success of Nigerian music and Afrobeats.

Nigerian artists have not only dominated their local industry but have also made significant breakthroughs on the international stage, signing lucrative deals while maintaining creative and financial control.

Some key examples include:

Burna Boy – Won a Grammy Award and has successfully sold out major venues like Madison Square Garden (NYC) and London’s O2 Arena. Despite his global success, Burna Boy retains ownership of his music and brand, setting an example for independent artists.

Wizkid – His hit song Essence featuring Tems became a global sensation, earning him multiple Billboard chart entries. Unlike many American artists, Wizkid has managed his career on his terms, negotiating deals that maintain his artistic freedom.

Davido – One of Africa’s richest musicians, Davido has balanced major record label deals with self-management. His ability to market his brand and maintain control over his music rights is a testament to the Nigerian work ethic.

Olamide – The YBNL boss is known for mentoring and investing in new talents like Asake and Fireboy DML. Unlike many American record label owners, Olamide ensures that his artists gain financial independence and industry knowledge.

These examples demonstrate why West’s admiration for Nigerian artists is well-founded.

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While many U.S. artists rely on record labels for funding, distribution, and branding, Nigerian musicians have learned to leverage digital platforms, independent financing, and strategic collaborations to grow their careers.

What American Rappers Can Learn from Nigerian Artists

West’s comments highlight some key takeaways for American rappers and other global artists looking to gain more control over their music careers:

1. Financial Independence
   Many Nigerian artists own their masters (music rights) or negotiate favorable record deals that allow them to retain ownership of their content. This ensures that they earn long-term royalties and control their brand.
2. Leveraging Streaming and Digital Platforms
   Unlike the traditional American industry model, where artists rely heavily on radio airplay and label promotions, Nigerian artists have mastered digital platforms like YouTube, Audiomack, and Spotify to distribute their music directly to global audiences.
3. Investing in Themselves
   Instead of waiting for major record labels to fund their projects, many Nigerian musicians use their own money or local investors to produce and market their work. This reduces their dependency on exploitative industry contracts.
4. Smart Branding and Global Expansion
   Nigerian artists have expanded beyond Africa by strategically collaborating with international acts. Examples include:

Burna Boy with Ed Sheeran and Stormzy

Tems working with Drake, Beyoncé, and Rihanna

Wizkid collaborating with Justin Bieber and Chris Brown

However, these moves increase visibility and revenue, something Kanye believes American artists should emulate.