Nigerian Afrobeats superstar Wizkid has come under intense scrutiny following a remark in his new **HBO documentary, Long Live Lagos, where he stated: “There was no blueprint for me. I had to build a structure for myself.”
The statement immediately sparked controversy, with some fans interpreting it as an attempt to downplay the instrumental role that Banky W and EME (Empire Mates Entertainment) played in launching his early career.
The Fan Backlash
One social media user wrote, expressing the sentiment of fans who felt the comment was dismissive:
“This guy is erasing the role Banky W and EME played in his career. Person way Banky dey pick from school enter studio is saying ‘I had to build a structure for myself.’ God sees all.”
The criticism points to the well-documented history of Banky W signing a young Wizkid to EME and providing him with the initial foundation and access to studio sessions that he could not afford at the time.
The Defense: Artistic Reinvention
However, other fans were quick to defend Wizkid, arguing that his statement was a reference to his artistic and business reinvention rather than a dismissal of his beginnings.
“There is no real context to that. I believe he was speaking about his style of music. He reinvented himself,” one comment read.
Another added, “Wiz has never denied Banky’s impact, nor can he. Let’s calm down.”
The debate highlights the fine line between acknowledging mentorship and celebrating personal growth in the entertainment industry. While some fans see Wizkid’s words as erasing past contributions, others view it as a necessary reflection of his relentless ambition and eventual success in building his own independent, global music structure after leaving EME.
New doc premiering on @HBO.
Dec 11th! 🦅 #WizkidLongLiveLagos 🇳🇬 pic.twitter.com/zGcFx2duv1— Wizkid (@wizkidayo) November 24, 2025
Source: Africa Publicity
Related Posts:
History Made: Wizkid’s Son Champz Becomes Youngest Artist to Top Apple Music Nigeria Album Chart
‘Starboy Prophecy’ Manifests: Wizkid’s Son Boluwatife Balogun ‘Champz’ Prepares for Music Debut
Asake’s Red Bull Symphonic Concert: Wizkid, Gunna, and Central Cee Join Superstar on Stage
