2Face: African Queen Changed My Life But Brought Challenges
Even more than twenty years after its release, “African Queen” is still making headlines.
Legendary Nigerian singer 2Face Idibia says the song gave his career a major spark.
He also said it is one of the tracks he connects with the most.
Speaking on a recent episode of the Entertainment & Lifestyle show, 2Face admitted that while the song brought huge benefits, it has also been a burden.
He said it has been a blessing, but it came with challenges. Still, he added, he is grateful for everything it has given him.
Released in 2004, African Queen catapulted 2Face to international fame.
He became the first African artist to win BET, MTV Europe, and MOBO awards.
The song has not been free of controversy. Blackface, 2Face’s former bandmate, has repeatedly claimed that he created it.
2Face said the song started as a collaboration but denied ever stealing it.
The debate has lasted over two decades.
It flared again in August 2025 when Billboard named “African Queen” the greatest Afrobeats song of all time.
Despite the disputes, 2Face said the song continues to shape his career and connect with fans worldwide.
