Nigerian rapper Ice Prince has set the record straight regarding his groundbreaking achievement at the BET Awards, asserting that he was the first African artist to receive an award on stage during the prestigious ceremony. This statement comes as a response to a common misconception that fellow Nigerian artist Davido was the first African artist to be honored on the main stage.
Speaking in a recent interview on the podcast “Listening”, Ice Prince explained, “I am the first African artist to go on a BET stage and receive an award solo.” His remarks were aimed at clarifying the history of African representation at the BET Awards, where, prior to his win, African artists typically received their accolades backstage, limiting their visibility during the ceremony.
Ice Prince’s award, received during the 2013 BET Hip Hop Awards, was a significant milestone for African artists on the global music scene. His acknowledgment marked a turning point, ensuring that African talents were given the platform and recognition they deserved on the main stage. “It was a very important moment for African music,” Ice Prince said, reflecting on the impact of his achievement.
The rapper also addressed the misconception that Davido had been the first African artist to be honored on the main stage, stating that while the singer is a prominent figure, the credit for this particular milestone belonged to him. “When you guys talk about it, you guys give that credit to Davido,” he added. His statement underscores the importance of recognizing the historical context of African artists’ representation at major international awards.
Ice Prince’s clarification adds to his legacy as one of Nigeria’s most influential voices in the global music industry. Over the years, his contributions to the Afrobeat and hip-hop genres have earned him a loyal following and cemented his place in African music history.
The BET Awards, known for their celebration of Black excellence in music, have long been a key platform for African artists to showcase their talents on the world stage. Ice Prince’s achievement opened the door for other African musicians to receive similar recognition, setting a precedent that has since been followed by artists like Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Davido.
