Nigerian music icon 2Baba, formerly known as 2Face Idibia, has reflected on the complex legacy of his hit song “African Queen.”
Speaking on the Entertainment & Lifestyle show, 2Baba described the 2004 classic as a double-edged sword in his career. “That song has been a huge blessing, but it has also brought some challenges. Still, I’m grateful for everything,” he said.
The track propelled 2Baba to international acclaim, earning numerous awards and solidifying his position as one of Africa’s most celebrated music exports. Yet, its success has not been without controversy. His former bandmate, Blackface, has claimed ownership of the song, accusing 2Baba of stealing it—a claim the singer has consistently denied, emphasizing that it was a collaborative effort during their band days.
Despite the disputes, 2Baba remains appreciative of the song’s impact. He noted that while “African Queen” is his most iconic work, his discography contains many other hits that fans connect with deeply. “There are so many other songs I’ve made that are brilliant, and people resonate with them too,” he said.
The enduring legacy of “African Queen” was recently reaffirmed when Billboard named it the “Greatest Afrobeats Song of All Time.”
