Veteran Afrobeats singer Akande Abolore, popularly known as 9ice, has sparked intense conversations with his recent claims about the spiritual undertones of the music industry, asserting that the devil holds sway over the creative space.
During a candid appearance on The Nancy Isime Show, hosted by actress and media personality Nancy Isime, the Gongo Aso crooner delved into the hidden battles artists face, emphasizing the strong influence of spiritual forces in music.
Reflecting on his earlier ambitions to win a Grammy Award, 9ice said, “I used to talk about the Grammy a lot. I wasn’t given. Burna got it. We still haven’t gotten it.” He noted that this unmet desire contributed to his deeper understanding of the metaphysical elements that often accompany fame and artistry.
“Music is a powerful tool — you pass messages with it. That’s why as an artist, you need to be mindful of your lyrics. The devil controls music. He is the choir master,” 9ice declared. “That’s why you see artists engaging in substances and other things. It’s spiritual.”
Reinforcing his point, the singer warned aspiring artists to understand the industry they are stepping into. “Music is spiritually intense. The devil is in control. So if you’re coming into this industry, be aware of what you’re walking into. I’m not sugarcoating anything.”
The singer also shared a deeply personal chapter of his life, recalling a mysterious health ordeal that saw him vomiting blood continuously for six months — an experience he said had no medical explanation. “This happened around 2009, 2010. It wasn’t something any hospital could explain. It was spiritual.”
Turning to his spiritual evolution, 9ice distanced himself from mainstream religion, proudly identifying as a traditionalist. “I’m not Christian. I’m not Muslim. I’m a Babalawo. I tell people this and they run, but I’m African, and that’s what I practice.”
He cited Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo Kuti as a major influence, especially in embracing traditional African spirituality. “When Fela used to speak about Ogun, we mocked him. Now I understand. I wish I had embraced Ifa earlier.”
Quoting a spiritual insight, 9ice said, “God told us He would never speak to us in a foreign tongue. This Black continent has its own prophets, its own messengers.”
The singer urged young Africans to reconnect with their roots. “Go back home. Ask your parents about your lineage, about your traditional practices. Embrace your heritage with sincerity. That’s where your strength lies.”