Award-winning artist Wizkid’s assertion that he had “no blueprint” for his rise to fame has caused controversy.
Many people believe that the phrase, which was included in his HBO documentary Long Live Lagos, ignores the important part performed by Banky W, the talented performer whose stamp gave rise to Wizkid.
“There was no blueprint for me. I had to build a structure for myself,” he claimed.
Critics argued that Wizkid’s statement not only diminished Banky W’s impact on his career but also disregarded the contributions of Nigerian music legends who paved the way for the new generation of artists.
Wizkid also acknowledged the influence of Nigerian music icon Fela Kuti, stating that “Fela Kuti was instrumental to why I believe I could really make music”.
However, social media has been buzzing with mixed reactions following Wizkid’s “no blueprint” to his success.
Franko_Nero accused Wizkid of being ungrateful, saying he wouldn’t be where he is without Banky W’s support.
“I still vividly remember the day that Bankole [Banky W] announced on a show that he wanted to introduce a boy wonder, a gem in the making. Today, this ungrateful child is claiming otherwise. If Banky knew that today would come, I am sure he would have chased him far away”, he wrote.
Arhcent echoed this sentiment, feeling Wizkid is erasing the role of Banky W and EME in his career.
“This guy is erasing the role Banky W and EME played in his career. The person Banky picked from school for the studio is saying, “I had to build a structure for myself.’ God sees all.”
Others, like the Duke of Isoko, defended Wizkid’s right to claim his own success, pointing out that he brought a unique style to the table.
“If he never built a structure, Banky probably wouldn’t have noticed him. This dude came out with his own style of music, dressing sense, etc., but I understand that English is a problem in this place.”
Sir Dickson urged calm, interpreting Wizkid’s comment as referring to his music style, not Banky W’s impact.
“People are debating this with reference to Banky’s impact on his life. There is no real context to that. I believe he was speaking about his style of music. He reinvented himself. Wiz has never denied Banky’s impact, nor can he. Let’s calm down”, he wrote.
