Nigerian singer Iyanya’s rise to fame was not just a product of his talent but also the result of a life-changing encounter with fellow musician KCee. This revelation came to light during a live chat between media personality Daddy Freeze and Soso Soberekon, a former music producer and ex-manager of KCee. Soberekon disclosed how KCee discovered Iyanya years ago in Calabar, Cross River State, and played a major role in shaping his music career.
According to Soberekon, Iyanya was hosting a karaoke show in Calabar when KCee noticed his exceptional talent. Impressed by his performance, KCee walked up to him and offered to take him to Lagos to explore greater opportunities in the music industry. “KCee saw something special in Iyanya that night and decided to help him,” Soberekon explained.
During the conversation, Soberekon called KCee to confirm the story, and the *Limpopo* crooner provided further details. KCee recalled how they had to secure permission from Iyanya’s parents before taking him to Lagos. “We had to meet his parents for approval before he could travel with us,” KCee recounted. “We were already at the airport when he called to say his parents had finally agreed because they initially refused.”
After moving to Lagos, Iyanya’s journey was far from easy. Despite winning *Project Fame West Africa* in 2008, he struggled with accommodation and financial constraints. Soberekon revealed that Iyanya lived in KCee’s house for four years, sleeping on a couch due to the limited space. “He slept on the couch for four years because there was no extra room at the time. KCee’s family was living in the house, so the only available space was the couch,” Soberekon said.
Despite these challenges, Iyanya remained dedicated to his craft. During his stay, he contributed musically to KCee’s career by writing two songs for KCee and his then-music partner, Presh. “He wrote two songs for KCee Presh, and both were produced by me,” Soberekon added, highlighting Iyanya’s commitment and talent even in difficult times.
Iyanya’s eventual breakthrough came with the release of his smash hit Kukere, which catapulted him to fame and established him as a major force in the Nigerian music industry. His unique blend of Afropop and highlife resonated with fans across Africa, cementing his place among top artists.
