Afropop star Adekunle Gold has opened up about the creative and logistical challenges behind his hit single “Coco Money,” revealing that the track took more than a year to clear before it could finally be released to the public.
In a recent interview, the award-winning singer discussed the often-overlooked realities of music production, explaining how industry bureaucracy can stall even the most promising songs. Seated in front of an Apple Music microphone and clad in a brown crocodile-skin jacket, Adekunle Gold admitted candidly, “It took over a year to clear ‘Coco Money.’”
The track, which officially dropped on July 18, 2025, features an interpolation of Rihanna’s 2015 smash hit “Bitch Better Have My Money.” Unlike a sample—which directly reuses an existing recording—interpolation requires an artist to recreate melodies or lyrics while still seeking legal permission from the original songwriters and publishers. In this case, Adekunle Gold and his team had to navigate a complex approval process involving multiple rights holders, each requiring negotiations over royalties, credit splits, and licensing fees.
The drawn-out process highlights why many artists prefer to create entirely original compositions, avoiding the delays and expenses tied to copyright clearance. Adekunle Gold’s persistence, however, demonstrates a bold creative risk—choosing artistry over convenience. “I wanted the song to sound exactly how I envisioned it,” he reportedly said, emphasizing his commitment to musical authenticity even when the business side slowed things down.
Despite the extended delay, “Coco Money” became a major success, celebrated for its seamless fusion of modern Afropop and Yoruba street sounds (Elegbe). The song’s infectious rhythm and cross-cultural appeal made it one of the standout tracks from his 2025 project, earning praise from fans and critics alike.
More than just a hit, “Coco Money” serves as a case study in patience, artistic integrity, and the evolving global nature of Afrobeats. Adekunle Gold’s transparency about the hurdles faced behind the scenes has resonated deeply with fans and fellow artists, shedding light on the delicate balance between creativity, legality, and perseverance in today’s music industry.
Through it all, the singer has reaffirmed his position as one of Africa’s most innovative and globally conscious artists, proving that true artistry sometimes demands both time and tenacity.
