In a recent conversation with Sis Project Studios, the iconic Nigerian singer Alexander Abolore Adegbola Akande, better known as 9ice, reflected on the immense impact of the late Fela Anikulapo-Kuti on the evolution of Nigerian music. Widely recognized for his hit track “Gongo Aso,” 9ice highlighted how Fela, hailed as the father of Afrobeats, opened doors for aspiring musicians by providing a genre that enabled them to showcase their talents and innovative ideas to the world.
9ice, known for his distinct style and lyrical prowess, spoke passionately about the role Fela played in shaping the Nigerian music landscape. He expressed that Fela’s creation of Afrobeats as a genre simplified the path for many artists who were experimenting with new sounds and searching for an avenue to display their artistic abilities.
During the interview, 9ice emphasized:
“Fela Anikulapo-Kuti gave us the platform which is Afrobeat for us to climb on top. We were trying to do Afropop. We were trying to do afrobeats. We were trying to do different names. But Baba already has something that the world recognized.
Afrobeat taught me a lot. King Sunny Ade, Ebenezer Obey, and Fela Anikulapo-Kuti are our grandfathers. And I’m glad to be in existence to emulate or to follow what they’ve done.”
9ice’s words underscore the pivotal role that Fela Anikulapo-Kuti played in creating an environment of artistic exploration and growth within the Nigerian music scene. Fela’s innovative fusion of traditional African rhythms with Western influences birthed a genre that not only resonated deeply with audiences but also paved the way for artists like 9ice to find their unique voices and contribute to the rich tapestry of Nigerian music.