9ice – Little Money
| Stage Name | 9ice |
| Real Name | Alexander Abolore Adegbola Akande |
| Occupation | Musician |
| Date Of Birth/Age | 17th January, 1980 (34 years old) |
| Gender | Male |
| Height | 5”10 ft |
| Weight | |
| Place of Birth | Ogbomosho, Oyo State |
| State of Origin | Oyo State |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Marital Status | Olasunkanmi Ajala – (Wife) |
| Education | Lagos State University (LASU) |
| Known for | Little Money |
Early Life
Born Alexander Abolore Adegbola Akande on January 17, 1980, in Ogbomosho, Oyo State, Nigeria, 9ice grew up in the Shomolu Bariga suburbs of Lagos. His upbringing was in a polygamous home with five wives and nine children. Despite the challenges, young 9ice dreamed of being a musician, and his parents, recognizing his singing talent, supported his musical aspirations.
Educational Background
9ice’s educational journey mirrors the struggle many individuals face in balancing their aspirations with the challenges of formal education. He attended Abule Okuta Primary School for his primary education and later enrolled at CMS Grammar School Bariga for his secondary education.
After completing his secondary schooling, 9ice faced a period of more than four years during which he couldn’t secure admission into a tertiary institution. This hiatus led him to explore various low-paying professions while engaging in activities like writing, football, and boxing.
Shift to Higher Education
Despite the initial challenges, 9ice eventually gained admission to Lagos State University (LASU) with the intention of studying law. However, his academic journey took a turn as his passion for music intensified. Faced with the demands of both academics and a burgeoning music career, 9ice made a pivotal decision to drop out of LASU and fully dedicate himself to his musical pursuits.
Career Beginnings
In 1996, at the age of 16, 9ice recorded his first demo, titled “Risi de Alagbaja.” However, it wasn’t until 2000 that he officially released his first solo song, “Little Money.” His early years in the industry were marked by perseverance and determination, laying the foundation for his later success.
Breakthrough with “Gongo Aso”
In 2008, 9ice achieved widespread recognition with the release of the single “Gongo Aso.” The song’s popularity transcended Nigeria, earning him an invitation to perform at the Nelson Mandela 90th Birthday Tribute concert in London. The success of “Gongo Aso” also garnered him the Best Hip Hop Artist of the Year award at the MTV Africa Music Awards.
Awards and Recognition
The accolades continued to pour in for 9ice, with “Gongo Aso” winning four awards at the 2009 Hip Hop World Awards, including Album of the Year, Artiste of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Rap in Pop Album. Over the years, he has received several awards, including MOBO Best African Act (2008), Nigerian Entertainment Awards Most Indigenous Act (2007), and MTV Africa Music Awards Best Hip Hop Artist (2008).
Musical Journey
Throughout his career, 9ice has explored various genres, including hip hop, Afrobeats, and Fuji music. His music is characterized by powerful use of the Yoruba language, proverbial lyrics, and a unique delivery style. Some of his notable albums include “Gongo Aso” (2008), “Tradition” (2009), “Versus/Bashorun Gaa” (2011), and “Tip of the Iceberg: Episode 1” (2020).
Political Aspirations
Aside from his musical endeavors, 9ice ventured into politics, announcing his intention to run for a seat in the House of Representatives in the 2015 elections. Although he ran under the APC’s banner, he faced defeat in the primary elections. Despite this, he later served as a Special Adviser to the former Governor of Oyo State, Abiola Ajimobi, in 2015.
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Wife and Kids
Alexander Abolore Adegbola Akande, popularly known as 9ice, not only made headlines for his musical talents but also for his experiences in the realm of matrimony. The singer has ventured into marriage three times, each chapter marked by its unique narrative of love, challenges, and personal growth.
First Marriage – Toni Payne
9ice’s first venture into matrimony was with Toni Payne. The couple got married in July 2008, and their union was blessed with a son named Zion. However, the marriage faced challenges, and rumors circulated about infidelity, particularly linking Toni Payne with Ruggedman, a friend of 9ice. This tumultuous period inspired 9ice’s song “Once Bitten,” which was believed to be a response to the alleged relationship. The couple eventually parted ways after two years of marriage, announcing their divorce.
Second Marriage – Adetola Anifalaje
After the end of his first marriage, 9ice gave marriage another chance. In 2018, he tied the knot with Adetola Anifalaje, an American software engineer. The union brought the joy of parenthood as the couple welcomed a daughter named Milani-Francoise Imisioluwa Akande. Despite the happiness of expanding their family, this marriage also faced challenges, and the couple eventually parted ways.
Third Marriage – Ola Sunkanmi Ajala
In a continued quest for companionship, 9ice entered his third marriage with Ola Sunkanmi Ajala, a Lagos-based event director. The marriage faced public scrutiny when a video surfaced online, allegedly showing 9ice being unfaithful. The musician responded by issuing a public apology and reaching out to his followers on Instagram, seeking support to salvage his marriage. Despite the publicized challenges, 9ice and Ola Sunkanmi Ajala are reported to be parents to a child named Michelle Abolanle Akande, born after their marriage. Additionally, 9ice is the father of twin children, Maya and Miya Akande, from another relationship with Vickie Godis.
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Net Worth
As of available estimates, 9ice is reported to have a net worth of $2 million, a testament to his success in the music industry. You can connect with him on Instagram.
Facts & Stats
Languages: English, Yoruba
First song: Little Money
Albums:
- ID Cabasa – 2016
- Gongo Aso – 2008
- Lord Of Ajasa – 2023
- Tradition – 2009
- Bashorun Gaa – 2011
- Versus – 2011
- Tip Of The Iceberg (III) – 2023
- Certificate – 2007
- G.R.A – 2014
- C.N.N – 2014
- Tip Of The Iceberg (Episode1) – 2020
- Fear Of God – 2020
- G.O.A.T – 2021
- Certificate (Reloaded) – 2007
- Versus (The Battle Line is Drawn) – 2011
- Afro Juju – 2022
- Election Time – 2023
- Tradition (Reloaded) – 2009
- Tip of the Iceberg II – 2022, EP
- Limitless Clubbing, Vol. 38 – 2021
- Urban Pops & Jams, Vol. 40 – 2021
- Urban Pops & Jams, Vol. 5 – 2021
- Urban Pops & Jams, Vol. 44 – 2021
- Good Vibez Afro Pop, Vol. 15 – 2021
- Urban Pops & Jams, Vol. 33 – 2021
Genre: Afrobeats
The year he started signing: He started signing in 1996.
