Iyanya added that every entertainer or celebrity needs guidance to utilise their fame in a positive manner.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Afrobeats singer and songwriter Iyanya Onoyom Mbuk, better known simply as Iyanya, has advised fellow artists and celebrities to seek guidance despite attaining fame.
He shared this advice during a recent appearance as a guest on the latest episode of the ‘Afropolitan’ podcast.
During the interview, the 39-year-old singer explained how he has successfully navigated fame for 17 years.
According to Iyanya, he submits himself to mentorship, adding that this decision has kept him grounded.
The ‘Sexy Mama’ crooner remarked that fame without guidance is “fake,” and stressed that every entertainer requires direction to utilise their platform positively.
He cautioned that most celebrities are quickly forgotten by powerful figures the moment they cease to be relevant.
Iyanya said: ”I have been able to maintain fame positively for 17 years because of guidance. I advised my younger self not to take things personally because every famous person or entertainer needs guidance.
”You need one, two, or three people in your life to help keep you grounded because everything happens so fast and none of it is real. You’re going to walk into a President’s office; he’s going to know your name and sing your song, but it’s not real.
”The same guy, if you’re not ‘popping’ two or three years later, is not going to remember you. They will have to remind him about your meeting,” he expressed.
Iyanya concluded by urging other famous individuals to submit themselves to guidance and heed the counsel of trusted people in their lives.
He emphasised that such mentors provide essential moral support through every phase of a career.
