The story of 9ice, one of Nigeria’s iconic music legends, continues to resonate with fans and younger artists across Africa. Recently, an old interview video of the “Gongo Aso” star has made the rounds online, prompting a fresh wave of nostalgia and conversation about the realities of fame, loyalty, and the shifting sands of friendship in the entertainment industry.
Looking back at his impressive journey, 9ice shed light on a time when his songs topped music charts, concert venues from Lagos to Accra sold out, and his name was a constant on radio playlists throughout West Africa. Speaking earnestly in the resurfaced interview, he reflected on what it felt like to be surrounded by friends and collaborators at the height of his popularity.
“When I was on top, everybody was with me. Cabasa was with me, Jahbless, 2Phat—they all used to go on tour with me,” 9ice recalled, pointing to the unique bond he once shared with his core team under the now-legendary Coded Tunes label.
Those names—including highly respected producer ID Cabasa, rapper Jahbless, and the charismatic 2Phat—became synonymous with 9ice’s rise. Together, they defined an era when Nigerian music began breaking borders, opening doors for the Afrobeats movement that now dominates the global pop scene. Shows, tours, and endless studio sessions cemented both professional ties and friendships that fans still talk about today.
According to music analysts in Lagos, the early 2000s marked a pivotal era for Nigerian music. Veteran journalist Ifeoma Adesina notes, “Coded Tunes was at the forefront of a revolution. For many young Nigerians, seeing artists like 9ice and his crew collaborate and grow together was both inspiring and aspirational.” The collaborative spirit was not just a business model; it became a cultural blueprint for collectives such as Mavin Records and Chocolate City that followed in later years.
Yet, as 9ice’s career matured and industry trends shifted, so too did his inner circle. This is a phenomenon that experts say is not unique to 9ice. According to Dr. Abdul Lateef, a sociologist focused on pop culture in West Africa, “The entertainment industry is notorious for how fame influences friendships. Careers are often intertwined with personal relationships, and when the spotlight dims, some connections weaken or fade altogether.”
The emotional reactions online to the resurfaced interview have highlighted a broad theme: the bittersweet nature of success—and its impact on personal loyalty. On social media platforms, fans have commended 9ice for acknowledging his collaborators publicly. “It’s good to see legends giving flowers to the people who helped them become who they are,” tweeted @tolu_africa, a popular music podcaster. Others, however, expressed concern about the way friendships in the entertainment industry can sometimes be transactional, with one user writing, “People are always there when things are good. The real friends stay when the lights go off.”
Industry insiders say the evolution of group dynamics is a story as old as time—and not limited to Nigeria. Similar patterns have played out in Ghana, South Africa, and across global music capitals like London or New York. Collectives often yield powerful records, but as artists seek new directions or as fame wanes, group cohesion is tested. Nigerian acts like Psquare, Mo’Hits, and others have walked similar paths of togetherness, separation, and, sometimes, reconciliation.
Despite these changes, 9ice’s contributions—and those of his peers—remain woven into the fabric of contemporary Nigerian and African music. In recent years, he has spoken about personal growth, the need to adapt, and how success requires more than just talent. Speaking with Vanguard in a 2021 feature, he explained, “What music teaches you is that the only thing constant is change. Those who survive are the ones who understand that and keep moving forward.”
Today, young African artists can look to 9ice’s story as both inspiration and cautionary tale. The legacies left by pioneering collaborations help shape the music business, but the experiences also remind us that fame is often fleeting, and true friendships outlast stardom. As the Afrobeats genre continues to reach new heights—earning Grammy recognition and selling out arenas worldwide—the influence of earlier collectives like Coded Tunes can be seen in the ways young stars build and protect their circles.
- Lessons for Emerging Artists: 9ice’s journey underscores the importance of supporting your team, recognizing those who help you rise, and preparing for inevitable changes.
- The Role of Infrastructure: As the industry matures, experts say there’s a growing need for better support systems, from contracts protecting group interests to mental health resources.
- Culture and Community: Music holds a special place in African societies, serving as both entertainment and record of social history. Artists like 9ice remind fans and stakeholders of the deeper values embedded in those who “move together” towards greatness.
What do you think about the realities of fame and friendship in Nigeria’s entertainment industry? Have you seen similar stories play out in your own community or line of work? Drop your thoughts in the comments and join the conversation. For exclusive features, artist interviews, and the latest Afrobeats stories, make sure to follow us and stay tuned for more updates.
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