Ice Prince: First African artist to receive BET onstage

Ice Prince clarifies he, not Davido, was the first African artist to receive a BET Award on stage, settling a long-standing debate among fans.

For years, the recognition of African artists at the BET Awards has been a source of pride and conversation. However, many fans mistakenly credited Davido with being the first to achieve this milestone.

Ice Prince, born Panshak Zamani, addressed the confusion during a recent appearance on the show Listening.

“I am the first African artiste to go on a BET stage and receive an award solo,” Ice Prince confidently stated. “When you guys talk about it, you give that credit to Davido, but it was me who broke the jinx.”

Ice Prince’s historic moment happened in 2013 when he won the Best International Act: Africa category. At the time, BET traditionally presented awards to African artists backstage, away from the main event’s spotlight. This practice often led to criticisms of unequal recognition.

However, Ice Prince’s victory marked a turning point. He became the first African musician to accept his award live on the main stage, a significant shift that highlighted the growing influence of African music on the global stage.

His win and on-stage presence symbolized more than just a personal achievement—it was a moment of progress for African artists striving for equal acknowledgment in international spaces.

While Ice Prince was the pioneer, Davido’s appearance at the 2018 BET Awards also holds significance. That year, he won the Best International Act award and delivered an acceptance speech that captured global attention.

Davido’s remarks went beyond personal accolades. He used the platform to urge greater collaboration between African and American musicians. “Come to Africa,” he told the audience. “Eat the food, wear the clothes, listen to the music.”

His call to action resonated with fans and industry players alike, shining a light on Africa’s rich cultural offerings.

The confusion around who first received the award on stage likely stems from the attention Davido’s 2018 speech garnered. While his message was impactful, Ice Prince wants to ensure history is accurately remembered. His statement on Listening was a direct effort to claim the credit he feels is rightly his.

By correcting this narrative, Ice Prince not only emphasizes his own contribution but also reminds fans of the broader progress African artists have made in breaking barriers on global platforms.

The BET Awards’ decision to include African artists in the main ceremony was not just a win for individuals like Ice Prince and Davido. It represented a shift in how African music is perceived and celebrated worldwide.

Over the years, genres like Afrobeats have gained massive popularity, with artists like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Tems following in the footsteps of early trailblazers.

This evolution reflects the increasing demand for African music and its influence on global trends. Platforms like the BET Awards have played a role in amplifying this influence, helping artists reach new audiences while fostering cross-cultural collaborations.

For Ice Prince, this debate isn’t just about recognition; it’s about giving credit where it’s due. His journey as a musician is a testament to perseverance and breaking boundaries. Winning the Best International Act: Africa award in 2013 was a milestone not just for him but for African artists as a whole.

Davido’s contributions, on the other hand, continue to inspire collaboration and cultural exchange. Both artists have played pivotal roles in shaping the global narrative of African music, and their achievements highlight the importance of representation and visibility.

As African music continues to dominate global charts and airwaves, moments like these remind us of the trailblazers who paved the way.

Ice Prince’s clarification adds a valuable chapter to this evolving story. While debates may persist, what’s undeniable is the collective progress African artists have made, proving their talent knows no borders.

This milestone isn’t just a win for individuals—it’s a victory for an entire continent striving for equal recognition on the global stage. And as more artists step into the spotlight, the legacy of pioneers like Ice Prince and Davido will continue to inspire future generations.