Veteran Nigerian singer Alexander Adegbola Akande, widely known as 9ice, has sparked a storm of reactions after boldly claiming that the devil controls the music industry.
In an exclusive interview on The Nancy Isime Show, the “Gongo Aso” crooner didn’t hold back in sharing what he described as personal spiritual revelations and experiences.
Referring to the devil as the “choirmaster,” 9ice attributed the widespread vices among musicians — such as smoking and excessive partying — to the devil’s grip on the industry. “The devil controls music. Devil is the choirmaster. That’s why we smoke and do all the things we do,” he stated.
At 45, 9ice has had a long and eventful career in music, one he now says has been laced with intense spiritual warfare. He told host Nancy Isime that his insights are not theories but are grounded in spiritual experiences. “I’m not lying to you. He [the devil] is the most powerful angel. I’m speaking based on knowledge and what I’ve experienced spiritually.”
The interview took a deeper turn when 9ice revealed his spiritual identity. “I’m not a Christian or a Muslim. I’m a Babalawo. I’m an African. I’m a traditionalist,” he confessed, stating that his spiritual path became clear after enduring unexplained health issues.
One such episode, he said, was when he vomited blood for six months. “It wasn’t a medical condition,” 9ice explained. “It happened in 2009/2010. I had to leave my house. That was the turning point. Someone referred me to Ifa, and I just wished I had known Ifa from the beginning.”
He drew comparisons with legendary musician Fela Kuti, who was also rooted in African traditional beliefs. “Fela used to go to Ogun and people were mocking him. But now, I understand,” he added.
The interview has since gone viral, stirring conversations about the spiritual undercurrents of the music industry. While some fans applaud 9ice for his honesty and spiritual awareness, others are skeptical or even alarmed by his revelations.
This isn’t the first time 9ice has shocked the public with controversial statements, but his assertion that “music is controlled by the devil” may be one of his most provocative yet.
His comments open up broader conversations on spirituality, fame, and the pressures of the entertainment world. In an industry often glamorized for wealth and success, 9ice’s account offers a sobering glimpse into the unseen battles some artists face.
9ice had one warning for aspiring artists: “If you’re coming into this industry, understand where you’re coming to. Be ready.”
As Nigeria continues to grapple with cultural and spiritual crossroads, this revelation from one of its music legends forces a deep question: What is the price of fame — and who’s really in control?
