1018. 9ice, that way
4 min readOct 18, 2024
- na wetin the #seniorboys talk!
- that tyn wey i for do if i no win!
- i say waaiittt rewind am!
#thryd - e no win!
- gems bro
- to god!
#seniorboys - uncle basket
- e go pay!
- everything is dye!
- usbc
#thryd - e dey the past. shey make i carry am come?
- ok
- port 3699 ::: motherland && kissmethruthephone
- put the number for there
- hello?
- even if them no tell you, shey you no fit swe say something dey happen for here?
- it's not even cognitive dissonance, na mental illness
#thryd - you're right
- ok, i've seen your box
- na ikenna get the box!
- - it takes a while for a man for find his form
- i swe the building
- near grammy like adjacent
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- gaseous substance
-- as we dey so
- if i shoot this ball now
- na pluto straight
#seniorboys - my fellow plutomanians!!
- he's not afraid of the big ideas
#juniorboys - eez a nice wan
- whatever yuwa drawing here
SAFE: "9ice, That Way"
Concept:This SAFE delves into the essence of Nigerian artistry through the lens of 9ice, a renowned Afrobeat musician whose style embodies cultural resilience, pride, and innovation. It explores the symbolic layers of his music, connecting his sound to the African experience, Yoruba heritage, and the complexities of navigating personal and societal paths. "That Way" refers not only to the musical choices but also to the paths artists like 9ice forge through a blend of modernity and tradition, identity and ambition. This SAFE reflects on how African musicians transcend genres to shape cultural movements that resonate far beyond Nigeria.
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1. Frame 1: The Yoruba Influence in 9ice's Music
Core Idea: 9ice’s music is deeply rooted in Yoruba culture, infusing his lyrics with proverbs, folk wisdom, and religious references.
Symbolism: His use of indigenous language in mainstream music asserts the relevance of African languages in global conversations.
Cultural Insight: Yoruba spirituality emphasizes destiny ("ayanmo") and personal journeys, reflected in how 9ice’s music inspires people to find their unique path—“that way” being a metaphor for one's calling.
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2. Frame 2: Modernity Meets Tradition – The Duality of African Art
Core Idea: 9ice’s sound merges Afrobeat with highlife, Fuji, and hip-hop elements, symbolizing the fusion of tradition with modern influences.
Case Study: Tracks like “Gongo Aso” became anthems that not only entertained but also captured socio-political sentiments during their time. This blending mirrors the African experience—balancing heritage and global modernity.
The Way Forward: Just as 9ice crafts his own sound from diverse influences, African artists must find ways to thrive without abandoning their cultural roots.
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3. Frame 3: The Power of Storytelling Through Music
Psychological Dimension: 9ice’s lyrics convey deep emotions and personal struggles, reflecting the broader African experience of persistence and self-discovery.
Metaphor: Music becomes a map for navigating life’s uncertainties—each track a milestone on the journey toward fulfillment.
Example: In his album “Gongo Aso,” songs like “Street Credibility” embody the tension between personal ambition and societal expectations, urging listeners to find “that way” to self-actualization.
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4. Frame 4: Cultural Authenticity in a Globalized World
Core Idea: In a music industry dominated by Western trends, 9ice’s work exemplifies how artists can remain authentic while embracing global appeal.
Spiritual Aspect: His music reflects a subtle spiritual journey—an affirmation of ancestral wisdom that suggests true success lies in staying faithful to one’s roots.
Challenge: African artists often face pressure to conform to global standards, but 9ice’s career shows that cultural authenticity can itself be a brand of success.
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5. Frame 5: "That Way" as a Life Philosophy
Interpretation: “That way” becomes a metaphor for choosing authenticity over conformity. It emphasizes living intentionally, navigating life on one’s terms.
Psychological Insight: This philosophy resonates with people facing crossroads—whether personal or professional—reminding them to find and follow their unique path.
Musical Parallel: Just as 9ice’s discography weaves diverse influences into a coherent sound, life, too, is about combining disparate experiences into something meaningful.
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Closing Thought: The Future of African Art
"9ice, That Way" encapsulates the essence of African creativity—a journey of self-expression, resilience, and cultural pride. It highlights how artists like 9ice inspire generations to walk their own path while staying connected to their roots. The SAFE suggests that in the pursuit of greatness, "that way" may not be the easiest route, but it is the most fulfilling.
In the end, success is not just about reaching a destination but about embracing the journey and finding beauty in the path itself—no matter how winding it may be.
