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“I’ve Done So Much, But They Still Sleep on Me” — Ice Prince laments treatment despite achievements
Nigerian rapper Ice Prince Zamani has spoken candidly about feeling overlooked and underappreciated in the music industry, despite what he describes as groundbreaking achievements that helped shape the modern Afrobeats and hip-hop landscape in Africa.
Appearing on the Tea With Tay podcast, Panshak Henry Zamani, known professionally as Ice Prince, didn’t hold back as he expressed frustration over the industry’s apparent disregard for his contributions.
“I’ve done so much for Nigeria and Africa, but people still disrespect me or act like I don’t exist,” the Oleku rapper said.
I’ve done so many STUFF for Nigeria 🇳🇬 & Africa, but PEOPLE always Disrespect or Sleep On Me – Ice Prince pic.twitter.com/cVLbMjDXrR
— son of big wiz 🌱 (@bigwiziii) July 10, 2025
Ice Prince, who rose to prominence under the influential Chocolate City label, highlighted key milestones that, according to him, have not received their due respect.
He proudly stated that he was the first African artist to physically receive a BET Award on stage, and one of the earliest African musicians to appear on The Breakfast Club, a major U.S. radio show.
He also revealed a little-known milestone: having done a deal with Jay-Z, an accomplishment he believes is still overlooked.
The rapper contrasted his own quiet exit from Chocolate City with the drama that surrounded other former label mates, Jesse Jagz and Brymo, stating:
“I’m probably one of the only artists in the world who left his label without drama. Jesse left with drama, Brymo left with drama. Me? I just walked away peacefully. I’m not about that.”
Despite feeling overlooked, Ice Prince emphasized that his motivation for making music has never been tied to applause or validation. He waved off industry labels like legend, OG, and king:
“I don’t even like those titles. I don’t make music for accolades. For me, music is more than the awards or respect people try to tie it to. I’m here for the love, the art.”
With classic hits like “Aboki,” “Superstar,” and “Juju,” Ice Prince has long been a central figure in Nigerian hip-hop and Afropop. And though he might not always be in the spotlight, his legacy continues to influence a new wave of African artists navigating the global music scene.