Nigerian rapper Ice Prince has clarified a long-standing misconception regarding the first African artist to receive a BET Award on stage. In a recent interview on Listening, the "Oleku" crooner stated that he, not Davido, was the trailblazer who broke the tradition of backstage award presentations for African acts at the prestigious ceremony.

“I am the first African artiste to go on a BET stage and receive an award solo… When you guys talk about it, you guys give that credit to Davido,” Ice Prince explained, referring to his historic win in 2013 when he claimed the Best International Act, Africa Award.

For years, fans have credited Davido as the pioneer, largely due to his iconic acceptance speech at the 2018 BET Awards. During his speech, Davido, who won the Best International Act award, called for stronger collaborations between African and American musicians, an appeal that resonated globally.

However, Ice Prince’s revelation sheds light on a lesser-known fact about his own achievement, which marked a turning point in how African artists were recognized at the event.

Opinion: Ice Prince’s Impact is a Milestone Worth Celebrating

Ice Prince’s clarification is a reminder of the milestones achieved by Nigerian and African artists in breaking barriers on the global stage. His 2013 win was not just a personal victory but a moment that validated African music's growing influence in international spaces.

While Davido’s 2018 moment remains significant for its cultural impact and advocacy, Ice Prince's achievement as the first African artist to receive a BET award on stage deserves its rightful place in history. These milestones reflect the collective strides African musicians have made, turning what was once a niche genre into a global powerhouse.

Ultimately, both Ice Prince and Davido have contributed immensely to advancing African music, each in their unique way. As the industry continues to grow, it’s essential to celebrate all contributions to this remarkable journey of African music's global recognition.