American rapper and actor Ludacris recently acknowledged the widespread use of his photographs in barbershops across Africa and Europe. In a playful video on social media, Ludacris responded to a fan's comment about his pictures being displayed in barbershops in France.

He remarked, "My brother, not only do I know that they got my side buns and my cuts plastered all around France, it's all over Europe, all around Africa, I'm talking about Ghana, Nigeria, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico. The only thing I’m trying to figure out is who’s getting all of my residuals."

The rapper's distinctive hairstyle, particularly his sideburns and unique cuts, has made him a popular reference in barbershops, with his images serving as examples for customers who want a similar look. The trend is not only seen in Europe but also in various African countries, including Ghana and Nigeria.

Edwin Karani, a Nairobi based barber, explained that celebrity images, like those of Ludacris, help customers communicate their desired hairstyles, especially when they are unfamiliar with the technical names for specific cuts.

He noted that Ludacris’s recognisable style makes him an ideal reference. Other celebrities, such as football stars Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford, also appear frequently in barbershop displays across the region.