By Peter.
Legendary Nigerian music icon Innocent Idibia, better known as 2Baba (formerly 2Face), has opened up about the double-edged legacy of his timeless anthem African Queen, calling it both a monumental blessing and an unexpected burden across his illustrious career.
During a candid interview on the trending Entertainment & Lifestyle show that lit up social media on Sunday, the Afro-pop pioneer reflected on how the 2004 breakout single ignited his solo journey—yet continues to cast a long, complicated shadow.
“That song has been a very huge blessing and e don turn to problem join for me, you know, but like I said earlier, I’m grateful for everything,” he shared.
While acknowledging African Queen as his signature masterpiece, 2Baba emphasized that his catalog runs far deeper, with numerous fan-favorite tracks that deserve equal shine.
“There are so many other songs I have that are brilliant, and many people resonate with them too,” he added.
Released as the lead single from his debut solo project Face 2 Face, the romantic ballad skyrocketed 2Baba to global stardom, making him one of Africa’s most celebrated voices. The song dominated charts, soundtracked weddings worldwide, and earned him historic wins at the BET, MTV Europe, and MOBO awards—becoming the first African artist to sweep all three in a single year.
But its enduring fame has come with persistent controversy. Former Plantashun Boiz bandmate Blackface (Ahmedu Augustine Obiabo) has long claimed the song was stolen from their group’s unreleased material—a charge 2Baba has repeatedly denied, insisting it was a joint creation from their early days.
The debate flared up again in August 2025 when Billboard crowned African Queen the Greatest Afrobeats Song of All Time, reigniting old tensions and online discourse.
Despite the drama, 2Baba remains philosophical—grateful for the song that changed his life, even as it continues to stir conversation two decades later.
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