Singer Shallipopi, born Crown Uzama, has spoken about the difficulties and hostility he encountered while trying to establish himself in Nigeria’s competitive music industry, revealing that the experience significantly shaped his personality and outlook.
In a recent post on X, the Edo State–born artiste said his journey between 2023 and 2024 was marked by repeated rejection and ill-treatment from fellow musicians, at a time when he was still struggling to gain a foothold in the mainstream.
According to him, the lack of encouragement and acceptance from industry colleagues left a lasting impact, forcing him to develop a tougher exterior.
Reflecting on that period, the singer suggested that the challenges he faced contributed directly to his present demeanour. He implied that the hostility and exclusion he experienced hardened him emotionally, describing himself as “extra mean” as a result of the lessons learnt during his early rise in the industry.
In the post, Shallipopi wrote: “2023/2024 many artist pour me spit for face… I mean many. That’s why I’m extra mean. Ogun go kill all of una one by one as time dey go.”
The strongly worded message sparked conversations online, with fans and observers debating the pressures faced by emerging artistes in Nigeria’s music scene.
Despite the setbacks, Shallipopi eventually broke through with the viral success of his hit single Elon Musk, which quickly gained traction on social media platforms and the streets.
The song’s popularity marked a turning point in his career, pushing him into the national spotlight and opening doors that had previously been shut.
The momentum was further boosted when the track was remixed with Omoniyi Temidayo Raphael and Adedamola Adefolahan, collaborations that helped cement his place in the mainstream music space.
The remix broadened the song’s reach and introduced Shallipopi to a wider audience beyond his initial fan base.
Since his rise to fame, the singer has continued to attract attention not only for his music but also for his outspoken views on life, relationships and the realities of the entertainment industry.
In previous interviews and social media posts, he has offered advice to young men on financial stability and personal discipline, often stirring debate among fans and critics alike.
Shallipopi has also publicly acknowledged the role played by Zlatan in accelerating his career. In October 2023, he credited the rapper for giving his music “life” without demanding any form of payment, describing the gesture as a major boost at a critical stage of his journey.
Now, firmly established as one of the breakout acts of his generation, Shallipopi’s reflections offer a glimpse into the less glamorous side of the music industry, highlighting the rejection, resilience, and perseverance often required before success is achieved.
