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Music industry is controlled by the devil – 9ice
Veteran Nigerian singer Alexander Adegbola Akande, popularly known as 9ice, has sparked intense conversation after claiming that the music industry is under the control of the devil.
Speaking candidly during an interview on The Nancy Isime Show, the 45-year-old ‘Gongo Aso’ crooner described the devil as the spiritual force influencing many of the habits and struggles commonly found among musicians.
“The devil controls music. Devil is the choirmaster. That’s why we smoke and do all the things we do,” he declared.
According to 9ice, his claims are based on personal spiritual experiences, not speculation. He described the devil as “the most powerful angel” and urged aspiring artists to be spiritually prepared before entering the industry.
“Music generally is controlled by the devil. If you’re coming to this industry, understand where you’re coming to. I’m not lying to you. I’m speaking based on knowledge and what I’ve experienced spiritually,” he added.
When asked by host Nancy Isime whether he had ever faced spiritual warfare tied to his career, 9ice responded, “Several times.”
Recounting one of his most harrowing experiences, he said,
“There was a time I was vomiting blood continuously for six months in my house. I had to leave. This was around 2009 to 2010, and it wasn’t a medical issue.”
” Devil controls music. Devil is the choirmaster … I am not Christian, I’m not Muslim, I’m Babalawo “
– 9ice pic.twitter.com/0QEAh6QoeN
— @𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗷𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗯𝗼𝘆 (@OneJoblessBoy) August 2, 2025
Pressed further on how he protects himself spiritually, 9ice shared that he has embraced African traditional spirituality.
“I’m not a Christian or Muslim. I’m a Babalawo. I’m a traditionalist,” he said. “The first time I encountered Ifa was during that period I was vomiting blood. Someone referred me to it, and since then, I’ve followed that path. I only wish I had known Ifa earlier.”
He also referenced Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, saying,
“Fela used to visit Ogun shrines and people mocked him for it. But now, I understand where he was coming from.”
9ice’s revelations have stirred mixed reactions across social media, with some praising his honesty and others questioning his beliefs. Regardless, the singer has once again positioned himself as a fearless voice unafraid to speak on topics many shy away from in the industry.