Senegalese-American singer Akon has described his experience working with late pop icon Michael Jackson as one of the defining moments of his music career. Speaking during an appearance on the We Need To Talk podcast, the “Oh Africa” singer said collaborating with Jackson remains the proudest achievement of his career.
“My photo with Michael Jackson is my most proudest photo. I was already a full-blown celebrity at the point the photo was taken. But I am a child compared to this man (Michael Jackson),” Akon said.
“I was so happy because I grew up looking up to him. He is like everybody’s idol," he added.
The 53-year-old singer also reflected on his contributions to the growth of African music, revealing that he previously worked with several Nigerian Afrobeats stars, including music duo P-Square and singer Wizkid.
Akon, however, clarified that he did not sign Wizkid directly, explaining that his involvement came through Banky W’s Empire Mates Entertainment, the label to which Wizkid was signed at the time.
“Nigerians are the most intelligent people on the planet. They have done amazingly well with Afrobeats,” he added.