17th December, 2023
By Taiwo Okanlawon
Popular Nigerian rapper Emeka Akumefule, better known as Blaqbonez, has opened up about the challenges associated with fame.
The ‘Emeka Must Shine’ crooner revealed this in an interview with Joey Akan’s Afrobeats Intelligence podcast.
Blaqbonez said the constant attention and scrutiny in public spaces make it difficult for him to live a normal life.
He said he is under pressure to maintain his image as Blaqbonez, hence, he is always in hiding.
The rapper said fame feels like “a crazy punishment” to him.
“I think fame is a punishment. Normal people can have all the money in the world, and drive a way bigger car than I would drive. But in traffic, everybody will leave them and focus on me,” he said.
“Now, if I walk into a restaurant, everybody is on me. I cannot even do those basic things. Normal people can have 50 times my money, wear a regular T-shirt and stroll.
“Nobody is checking what type of ring, or chain he is wearing or how fresh he looks. No human being cares. They just go straight to the world to buy whatever they want. Enjoying whatever experiences.
“I cannot even go out in Nigeria to have actual fun. I must be Blaqbonez. It feels like a crazy punishment. Other people who have way more money have a much easier life than me. I have to be hiding.”
Blaqbonez is signed to Chocolate City and is highly regarded for his distinct rap style as well as his creative ingenuity; his latest album, “Emeka Must Shine,” is currently making waves.