Nigerian music legend, Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, has opened up on his musical journey, early fame, and lingering controversies surrounding the defunct Plantation Boys group, saying he has moved on from past disputes.
The iconic singer spoke during an interview on the Mic On Podcast hosted by Seun Okinbaloye, where he reflected on his rise in the music industry and the evolution of music formats from cassette tapes to digital streaming.
2Baba described his career as a mix of unforgettable highs and difficult moments, noting that his journey remains deeply emotional and inspiring.
“For me, so many memorable times and so many horrible times. So many things have happened that are indescribable for me. But I thank God for everything now,” he said.
The “African Queen” crooner recalled the excitement he felt the first time he heard his song played on radio and when he saw his name printed on a cassette tape.
“The first time I heard my song on the radio, it was mind-blowing. And the first time I held a cassette tape and saw my name on it — what I had been seeing while growing up — it was amazing,” he said.
Speaking on the transformation of the music industry, 2Baba said he had witnessed several transitions, from analogue recordings to modern digital platforms, describing the experience as overwhelming.
“Plenty people don’t even know what cassette is these days. But it’s interesting for me to sit here and think back. I did cassette, I did CD, and now we’re in the digital era. It’s mind-blowing,” he added.
The award-winning artiste also addressed long-standing controversies involving former Plantation Boys member, Blackface, particularly disputes over songwriting credits and royalties.
2Baba insisted that allegations suggesting he falsely claimed authorship of some songs were untrue.
“For whatever reason, there have been so many accusations, and it’s all false. Those stories about writing the music, rights and royalties are not true. I have always said we wrote the song together. He knows this,” he stated.
He admitted that the controversy was painful at some point but said he eventually chose to move on after both parties reached an out-of-court settlement.
“What beats my imagination is seeing those kinds of things when you know they are false. It pained me for some time, but I just had to let it go. We eventually settled out of court,” he said.
When asked about the possibility of a professional reunion with Plantation Boys, 2Baba dismissed the idea, saying he does not foresee such happening anytime soon.
“I don’t see it happening yet. We had very wonderful times together, but I’ve moved on. For me, they are memories now, and I enjoy them that way,” he said.
Despite past disagreements, the singer maintained that his relationship with former band members remains cordial.
“All in all, we’re good. I learned a whole lot from them, and that’s how I want to keep it,” he added.
2Baba, widely regarded as one of Africa’s most influential musicians, rose to prominence in the early 2000s as a member of Plantation Boys before launching a successful solo career that produced several award-winning hits.
