Nigerian Afrobeats artist Kaj Akinyede secured his first award of 2021, winning the Street Artiste of the Year in the diaspora category at the fourth edition of the Cool Wealth Awards, held on February 21, 2021, at the Excellence Hotel in Lagos.
Unable to attend in person, Akinyede was represented by his Nigeria-based management team, who accepted the award on his behalf. The win highlights his growing influence in the global Afrobeats scene, spotlighting Nigeria’s vibrant music culture from the diaspora.
Surprise and Motivation
In a conversation with entertainment journalist Adeyinka Oluwamayowa, Akinyede expressed surprise and gratitude, stating, “I didn’t expect to win the award, it came as a surprise. This is an excellent way to start the year. To be sincere, I am motivated to continue putting out more good musical contents for my fans all over the world, especially in my home country, Nigeria.” He viewed the award as a stepping stone, adding, “The award, I strongly believe, is the beginning of greater things that are coming my way this year, and I’ll not relent until I achieve all I want to accomplish with music.”
Gratitude and Future Goals
Akinyede shared his appreciation on Instagram, posting a photo of the award plaque with a heartfelt note: “I am honoured receiving a great award. I give thanks to Almighty God & also say thanks to family & friends whom have supported me all through this process. I promise to get better at myself so I have more wins.”
He also thanked the Cool Wealth Awards organizers and his management team for their unwavering support in prioritizing his projects.
Other Notable Winners
The Cool Wealth Awards celebrated other Nigerian music talents, with Mz Kiss winning Best Female Rap Act, Laycon earning Song of the Year for Fierce, King Sunny Ade honored as Music Icon, and 9ice receiving the Legendary Award. The event underscored Nigeria’s rich musical talent pool, aligning with the broader success of artists like Fireboy DML, who dominated the 14th Headies Awards around the same period.
Context of Nigeria’s Music Scene
Akinyede’s win comes amid a global Afrobeats surge, with Nigerian artists like Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy earning international accolades, including Grammy nominations and wins in 2021.
The Cool Wealth Awards, though less prominent than The Headies or Nigeria Entertainment Awards, provide a platform for recognizing both established and emerging talents, particularly those in the diaspora contributing to Nigeria’s cultural export.
