03/08/2025
In 2011, 9ice was still basking in the glory of Gongo A*o.
He was the voice of the streets, the pride of Yoruba culture.
Multiple awards. National anthem-level hits.
He gave us hope that indigenous music could dominate mainstream.
That same year, a hungry young rapper named Olamide dropped Eni Duro.
Just a Bariga boy trying to find his space in a crowded industry.
Back then, if you asked who would go further —
Most would have bet on 9ice.
But fast forward to today…
Olamide isn’t just big — he’s a movement.
Over 10 studio albums, countless street anthems, and a record label (YBNL) that changed lives.
He gave us Fireboy DML, Asake, Adekunle Gold, and more.
He’s respected across generations. From the trenches to the charts — he’s unstoppable.
9ice?
Still a legend. Still respected.
But the buzz faded. The consistency wasn’t there.
He inspired many, but didn’t evolve with the game.
Does that erase his legacy?
Absolutely not.
9ice opened the door for Yoruba music to shine. He walked so others could run.
But here’s the truth:
Olamide kept running. Then he started carrying others.
Moral lesson?
Talent will introduce you.
But consistency and vision will keep you in the room.
