Ice Prince Laments Lack of Respect in Music Industry Despite Groundbreaking Achievements

Nigerian hip-hop veteran Ice Prince Zamani has expressed his deep frustration over what he perceives as a lack of respect from both fans and industry peers, despite being one of the early trailblazers of African rap on the global stage.

In a heartfelt appearance on the Tea With Tay podcast, the rapper opened up about his long-standing feeling of being underappreciated, even after achieving historic milestones in African music.

Ice won the BET Award for Best International Act (Africa) in 2013 and was the first African artist to receive the award on-stage. He also enjoyed massive success with hit songs like “Oleku,” “Aboki,” “Superstar,” and “Juice & Liquor,” which helped usher Nigerian hip-hop into the mainstream in the early 2010s. Despite this, the rapper claims that recognition has often eluded him.

“I’ve done so many things for Nigeria, for Africa,” he lamented. “But people always disrespect or sleep on me. I’m not chasing the tag of OG, I’m not chasing legend, I’m not chasing King… I just want to make good music,” he said on the podcast.

Ice Prince took time during the interview to reflect on his exit from Chocolate City, the iconic Nigerian record label that helped launch his career. He praised the peaceful nature of his departure, contrasting it with the often turbulent exits other artists have experienced from labels.

Though he feels overlooked, Ice Prince isn’t slowing down. He continues to release music, collaborate with younger artists, and push the boundaries of his sound. At 38, he stands as one of the few artists from his era still actively shaping Nigeria’s music narrative, not just through music, but by mentoring the next generation of rappers and entrepreneurs.

Ice Prince’s latest comments shine a light on the emotional toll of being a pioneer in a fast-evolving industry. Despite his massive contributions and accolades, he’s still fighting for the respect he believes he deserves.

In his vulnerability, he sends a powerful message: Recognition doesn’t always come easy—but integrity, consistency, and purpose will always outlast trends.