Wizkid early career comments in HBO documentary spark debate over Banky W’s influence and the singer’s rise in the Nigerian music scene

Nigerian singer Wizkid has ignited controversy after claiming he had no blueprint while building his career, despite rising through Banky W’s renowned E.M.E. imprint.

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The statement was made in a snippet from his upcoming HBO documentary, Long Live Lagos.

“There was no blueprint for me. I had to build a structure for myself,” the Ojuelegba star said, prompting heated debate on social media.

Many fans and commentators argued that his remarks downplayed Banky W’s role in nurturing his talent and disrespected the pioneers of Nigerian music who paved the way for artists of his generation.

Despite the backlash, Wizkid also acknowledged elsewhere in the documentary the profound influence of Fela Kuti on his musical journey. “Fela Kuti was instrumental to why I believe I could really make music,” he noted.

Social media users quickly weighed in. Franko_Nero wrote: “I still vividly remember the day that Bankole [Banky W] announced on a show that he wants to introduce a boy wonder.

Today, this ungrateful child is claiming otherwise.” Arhcent added: “This guy is erasing the role Banky W and EME played in his career. God sees all.”

Other fans provided more nuanced perspectives. Duke of Isoko commented: “If he never built a structure, Banky probably wouldn’t have noticed him. He came out with his own style of music and dressing, but I understand that English is a problem in this place.”

Sir Dickson argued that Wizkid’s statement referred more to his personal style than the mentorship he received: “Wiz has never denied Banky’s impact. Let’s calm down.”

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The debate highlights the fine line between recognising mentorship and asserting individual artistry, a recurring theme in discussions about Nigerian music’s evolution.