In a startling revelation that has sent ripples through Nigeria’s entertainment circles, veteran Afrobeats artist 9ice made controversial statements about the music industry during a recent appearance on The Nancy Isime Show, cautioning aspiring musicians about what he describes as satanic influences within the business.
The artist, whose real name is Alexander Abolore Adegbola Akande, delivered his warning with stark directness, telling viewers that “music generally is controlled by the devil” and urging newcomers to “understand where you’re coming to.” The “Gongo Aso” hitmaker didn’t mince words in his spiritual assessment of the entertainment world, going further to elaborate on his beliefs. “The devil controls music. The devil is the choirmaster. That’s why we smoke and do all the things we do,” 9ice declared during the interview.
His comments appear to stem from personal experiences that extend beyond mere industry observations. In the same interview, the artist revealed a harrowing personal ordeal that he attributes to spiritual warfare within the music business. 9ice disclosed that between 2009 and 2010, he experienced what he described as a “spiritual battle” that left him “vomiting blood for six months” while confined to his home.
The timing of these alleged spiritual attacks coincides with a pivotal period in 9ice’s career, occurring during the height of his commercial success following breakthrough hits like “Gongo Aso” and “Street Credibility.”
9ice’s statements reflect a broader conversation within African entertainment circles about the intersection of spirituality and commercial success in the music industry. His reference to the devil as “the most powerful angel” and his emphasis on speaking from “knowledge and what I’ve experienced spiritually” suggest these aren’t casual observations but deeply held beliefs shaped by personal encounters.
The veteran artist, who has maintained relevance in the Nigerian music scene for over two decades, positioned his warnings as essential guidance for newcomers. His candid approach appears aimed at preparing aspiring musicians for what he perceives as inevitable spiritual challenges rather than deterring them from pursuing their dreams.
The interview has sparked intense debate across social media platforms, with reactions ranging from support for 9ice’s transparency to criticism of what some view as potentially harmful messaging to young artists. Religious leaders and industry stakeholders have yet to formally respond to the claims.
9ice’s revelations come at a time when Nigeria’s music industry, particularly Afrobeats, has achieved unprecedented global recognition, with artists like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido achieving international acclaim and Grammy recognition.
The artist’s willingness to discuss such controversial topics publicly underscores ongoing tensions between traditional spiritual beliefs and modern entertainment industry practices in Nigeria’s rapidly evolving cultural landscape.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
Veteran Nigerian artist 9ice has publicly warned aspiring musicians that the music industry is spiritually dangerous, claiming it’s “controlled by the devil” based on his personal experiences, including alleged spiritual attacks that left him seriously ill during his career peak.
His controversial statements on The Nancy Isime Show have ignited debate about the role of spirituality in Nigeria’s booming music scene, with the artist positioning his warnings as essential guidance rather than discouragement for newcomers. The revelation highlights ongoing tensions between traditional spiritual beliefs and commercial success in African entertainment.
