Ice Prince is no stranger to the music industry. As the official co-host of the Channel O Music Video Awards alongside AKA taking place in Soweto at the end of November, he will first light up the stage at the pre-party, affectionately known as Maftown Heights.
Having first formed a group in 2002 called the Ecomog Squad, they split two years later when Ice decided to focus on solo endeavours. ‘Extraordinary’ was his debut single, but it wasn’t until 2010 with his hit single ‘OLEKU’ that took Nigeria by storm, making it’s way to the top of the charts. In January this year he released a remix to his track ‘Aboki’ which was on the HYPE mixtape and features Sarkodie, Mercy Johnson, Wizkid, M.I and our very own Khuli Chana.
On the eve of his sophomore album release Fire Of Zamani, he’s also dropping a clothing line called F.O.Z which extebds to sunglasses and headphones.
What do you think is the relevance of indigenous language in giving African Hip Hop a unique, exportable identity?
It is the key thing that draws the ear of the international audience first most times even before they get into the music. Whether it be in the accent or in the Language. That’s what separates our sound from the rest of the world and defines who we are and what our music represents.
What are you looking forward to the most about performing at Maftown Heights this year?
I’m looking forward to rocking with the other artists from that area ’cause it’s really about time we start getting together with avenues like this as African artists and of course to just rock it and share my music with my fans on that side. It’s a blessing.
Why should people come see you at Maftown Heights this year and what can they expect?
I haven’t been there before and I’m bringing my best to the stage ’cause I know it’s a highly respected stage so yeah, everybody should come out.
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