Controversial Nigerian singer and rapper Speed Darlington has revealed that his 23 years in the United States yielded nothing but criminal records.
In a recent video cited by journalists, Darlington explained that despite having access to America, he left the country with no wealth, building his mansion and career success instead in Nigeria.
“America did not favor me. I have access to the USA but I don’t want to be there all the time… The only thing I have is criminal records, arrest, arrest, arrest,” he said.
Darlington described the social challenges he faced in the US, including racial barriers and a lack of self-confidence. “American society is not conducive for my mental and physical well-being. In America, my self confidence is in the gutter. I can’t even talk to girls; I lack confidence whenever I’m there. I’m always lonely,” he said.
The rapper added that he prefers visiting the US occasionally to see family rather than living there permanently. “It’s better for me to have access to America whenever I want… because American society makes a black man overprove himself before he can get any respect,” he explained.
Darlington highlighted that his financial success came entirely from Nigeria. “My mansion with a swimming pool came from Nigeria. That fight I had with Portable was how I finished my mansion decking. That money helped me very well. That fight did not take place in Las Vegas; it took place in Lagos,” he said.
The singer concluded by asserting that freedom and respect are more important to him than being at the center of it all in the US. “It is better to be in a forest climbing trees and be free than to be in a center of everything and being caged. I did not leave America with money,” he said.
Darlington’s remarks shed light on the struggles African artists may face abroad and his personal decision to prioritize success and self-worth in Nigeria.
About the Author
