African Queen’ made me a star but also brought problems

African Queen’ made me a star but also brought problems – 2Baba

13th Nov 2025 | Source: Graphic Online

2Baba

Veteran musician Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, has opened up about how his iconic hit song ‘African Queen’ has been both a turning point and a source of challenges in his music career.

Appearing on the Entertainment & Lifestyle show, which went viral on Sunday, the multi-award-winning artiste said the 2004 classic gave him global recognition but also came with unexpected complications.

He said, “That song has been a very huge blessing and e don turn to problem join for me, you know, but like I said earlier, I’m grateful for everything.”

Reflecting on his journey, 2Baba, also known as 2Face, noted that while ‘African Queen’ remains his signature track, he has produced numerous other songs that have deeply resonated with listeners.

“There are so many other songs I have that are brilliant, and many people resonate with them too,” he added.

Released in 2004 as part of his debut solo album Face 2 Face, ‘African Queen’ propelled 2Face to international fame, solidifying his place as one of Africa’s most celebrated music icons.

The track’s success earned him several prestigious awards, including BET, MTV Europe, and MOBO honours, making him the first African artiste to achieve the hat-trick.

Despite its massive success, ‘African Queen’ has been dogged by controversy. 2Face’s former Plantashun Boiz bandmate, Ahmedu Augustine Obiabo (Blackface), has repeatedly accused him of song theft—an allegation 2Face has consistently dismissed, insisting it was a joint creation from their band days.