Nigerian music producer and influencer Samklef has stirred fresh conversation online after claiming ownership of several tracks from Wizkid’s debut album Superstar.
Taking to X, the producer alleged that the classic 2011 project was recorded in his studio and that he was never paid for the recording sessions at the time. According to him, the absence of a formal agreement during the production process leaves room for him to revisit the matter.
Samklef further disclosed that he is open to renegotiating the situation with Banky W, co-founder of Empire Mates Entertainment, the label that originally released the album.
“Thank God I never used my masters to collect any loan. I’m about to negotiate with Banky W since I didn’t sign any contract from the beginning. I hope the Wizkid Superstar masters were never sold,” he wrote.
He went on to make a stronger claim regarding the project’s ownership.
“I own six tracks from the masters because Banky didn’t pay for the studio sessions — and I also own the studio where all the songs were recorded.”
Despite the bold statements, it remains uncertain whether Samklef possesses any legally recognised rights to the tracks or if his position is based solely on the alleged unpaid studio work.
Released on June 12, 2011, Superstar by Wizkid is widely regarded as one of the most influential albums in modern Nigerian pop music. The project played a pivotal role in launching Wizkid’s global career and remains a landmark moment in the evolution of Afrobeats.
Thank God I never used my masters to collect any loan.
I’m about to negotiate with @BankyW since I didn’t sign any contract from the beginning. I hope the Wizkid Superstar masters were never sold.
I own 6 tracks from the masters because Banky didn’t pay for the studio sessions —…— SAMKLEF (@SAMKLEF) March 2, 2026