By Ohuakanwa Chibuzo
In a recent appearance on the “Hoha” podcast, Nigerian singer Joe El Amadi opened up about his hardships in his music career, attributing them to his resemblance to music legend 2Baba (formerly known as 2Face). According to Joe El, the frequent comparisons to the icon have hindered his progress in the industry, as he has often been blocked from platforms and opportunities.
Joe El shared that his likeness to 2Baba has led to rejection from music executives and media personalities, who reportedly felt he was attempting to imitate the star. The singer recalled several instances where he was denied access to major platforms, including Cool FM, Sound City, and Festac Carnival. At the Festac Carnival in 2013, he was allegedly refused the chance to perform due to the perception that he was copying the iconic artist.
“The downsides of 2Baba comparisons almost broke me down,” Joe El stated on the podcast. “Some presenters at Cool FM and Sound City, and an event planner at Festac Carnival 2013, denied me access to their platforms for looking like 2Baba.”
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He also recounted an encounter at Club Rumours, where a Sound City presenter reportedly confronted him, claiming he had instructed his station not to play Joe El’s music. This presenter allegedly felt Joe El was “mimicking 2Face.”
Joe El described feeling marginalised and isolated despite his attempts to show respect to 2Baba. “Sometimes, when I try to pay homage to 2Face when we meet in public, some of his team members will block me,” he shared.
The singer revealed he turned to family and close associates, including his mother and record label boss Baba Keke, for support during these trying times. Their advice to remain calm, he said, has helped him navigate the challenges of being likened to one of Nigeria’s most celebrated music icons.