Adekunle Gold Becomes First Nigerian Artist to Collaborate with Kanye West and Rihanna on ‘Coco Money’
It’s not easy to make it in the global music scene, especially for artists from Nigeria. But Adekunle Gold just made history. He is the first Nigerian singer to collaborate with Kanye West and Rihanna on a song. This milestone has raised the Nigerian flag on international platforms. It proves that Nigerian artists are now reaching a larger audience. With superstars like Kanye and Rihanna on board, this collaboration has taken Nigerian music to a whole new level. Let’s find out how Adekunle Gold’s achievement could change everything for his career, Nigerian music, and beyond.
Adekunle Gold started out as a singer-songwriter with a deep love for music. His debut album garnered him local attention, but his talent quickly spread to many more places. Over time, he has explored different sounds, blending Afrobeat, pop and R&B. His unique voice and soulful lyrics have helped him stand out. From performing in small shows to truly international stages, his journey shows that hard work pays off.
Before “Coco Money”, Adekunle Gold had already racked up millions of streams outside of Nigeria. His songs appeared on playlists in Europe, North America and Asia. He has collaborated with other artists around the world, steadily building his reputation. Social media and streaming platforms have played a major role in helping his music reach new fans. His influence has been growing rapidly, and this new collaboration only solidifies his status.
Collaborating with Kanye West and Rihanna is a milestone. It is a sign that Nigerian artists can now compete with the world’s top stars. Many other Nigerian artists, such as Burna Boy and Wizkid, have paved the way, but this only makes Adekunle Gold stand out more. It’s a step forward that shows that Nigerian talent is now part of major international music stories.
“Coco Money” came with a lot of anticipation. Released in early 2024, fans and critics immediately praised its melody. It’s a vibrant blend of Afrobeat energy and modern pop sounds. The song hints at themes of success, wealth, and partying. It’s the kind of song that sticks in your head in seconds.
Both Kanye West and Rihanna are credited as writers on “Coco Money,” which is rare for Nigerian artists. Their influence is evident in the structure and style of the song. Kanye’s production skills add a finishing touch that’s both fresh and familiar. Rihanna’s involvement brought global appeal, helping the song resonate around the world. Their contributions elevated the project from a mere song to a landmark event.
This was the first time a Nigerian artist had co-written a song with these two big names. Fans were excited, with industry insiders calling it a “historic collaboration.” Social media exploded with praise and anticipation. It was clear that the song was more than just a hit; it was emblematic of what Nigerian artists could achieve in the global music market.
This project is more than just a song — it’s a sign that more and more Nigerian artists can dream big. Collaborating with international icons is no longer limited. It sets a new standard. Nigerian artists now have a clearer path to collaborate with global superstars, encouraging others to step up to similar opportunities.
African music sales and streaming continue to grow. Statistics show a steady rise in Nigerian hits on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. Collaborations like these strengthen Nigeria’s brand in the music industry. They attract more global attention and open the door to cross-border partnerships.
High-profile collaborations are becoming the norm. Artists from all over the world are now working together more often than ever. This trend is pushing everyone to create better music and raise the bar. Cultural fusions like “Coco Money” have put new ideas on the sound of global hits.
Many critics have called it a turning point. One industry insider called it “a bold statement that Nigerian talent can coexist and complement top international stars.” They believe it will cement Nigeria’s reputation as a hotbed of fresh, innovative music.
While official interviews are still pending, Adekunle Gold has shared his excitement at working with legends like Kanye and Rihanna. He described it as “a dream come true” and hinted that there will be more surprises to come. Kanye and Rihanna have been full of praise on social media, calling the collaboration “amazing” and “historic.”
Fans have flooded Twitter and Instagram with hashtags like #CocoMoney and #AfricanGenius. Tweets have been praising Adekunle Gold’s rise and the song’s catchy melody. Streaming numbers across platforms have skyrocketed, showing how eager listeners around the world are to support this historic moment.
Young Nigerian artists are now seeing what’s possible. The trick? Be persistent, build a strong social media presence, and seek out collaborations with other artists, no matter where they’re from. Who knows, someone might recognize your talent.
Create music that’s authentic but also globally appealing. Build strong relationships with producers and songwriters outside of Nigeria. Use social media to showcase your work and connect with fans around the world. Don’t forget, songwriting credits are important — they prove your part in a hit song.
Combining Nigerian music with global trends creates unique music. Think about how Afrobeat has penetrated the mainstream music charts. Stay true to your roots, but also be open to new influences. That’s how you stand out and attract a wider audience.
Adekunle Gold’s historic collaboration with Kanye West and Rihanna was a huge accomplishment. It was the first time a Nigerian artist had collaborated with these big stars as musicians. This achievement not only put Nigerian music on the international map, but also inspired a new generation of artists. As more cross-border collaborations continue, the voice of Nigerian music will only get louder. If you’re an aspiring artist, remember — talent combined with smart moves can open doors. The future of Nigerian music is brighter than ever.
