Nigerian rapper and music icon Ice Prince has cleared up one of the biggest misconceptions in African music history—he, not Davido, is the first African artiste to receive a BET Award live on stage. During a recent interview, Ice Prince confidently staked his claim as the trailblazer who shattered the long-standing tradition of backstage presentations for African winners at the prestigious awards show.
I am the first African artiste to go on a BET stage and receive an award solo
Ice Prince declared, addressing the mix-up that often credits Davido for this milestone. Fans may recall Davido’s memorable 2018 acceptance speech after winning Best International Act, where he passionately called for stronger collaborations between US and African musicians. However, Ice Prince insists his 2013 win for Best International Act, Africa, marked the actual turning point when African music truly stepped into the global spotlight.
But that’s not all Ice Prince had to share. The rapper also opened up about his unforgettable brush with the law in 2022. He revealed the grim reality of his time in Ikoyi Correctional Centre, where he spent nearly a week after being accused of assaulting a police officer during a routine stop-and-search. “It was a horrible experience,” he said, recounting how his celebrity status didn’t shield him from the tough conditions of the Nigerian justice system. According to Ice Prince, the situation spiraled after what he claimed was just a joke taken out of context.
From making history on international stages to navigating personal battles, Ice Prince remains a shining example of resilience and a reminder of how African artistes continue to rewrite the global narrative. So, the next time you think of BET history, don’t forget the real trailblazer who first brought Africa to the big stage—Ice Prince!
