Ace music executive and CEO of Kennis Music, Kenny Ogungbe, has opened up about the strategic measures his record label implemented to manage the personal life of iconic Nigerian singer, 2Face Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba.
Speaking on a recent episode of The Honest Bunch podcast, Ogungbe, fondly called Baba Keke, disclosed that the label went to great lengths to shield the young star from the distractions that often come with fame, particularly women seeking his attention.
Ogungbe revealed that during 2Face’s tenure with Kennis Music, the label actively worked to limit his interactions with women, recognizing the potential pitfalls such distractions could pose to his career. The team’s dedication to keeping him focused on his music was unwavering, as they believed that maintaining discipline was crucial for his growth as an artist and a person.
“When 2Face was with us at Kennis Music, we prevented him from seeing girls,” Ogungbe stated. “Girls would come looking for him all the time, but we didn’t allow him to see any of them. We were very intentional about this because we wanted him to concentrate on his career and avoid unnecessary complications. However, once he left our record label, there was nothing we could do about the situation anymore.”
Reflecting on 2Face’s journey post-Kennis Music, Ogungbe acknowledged that the label’s influence waned, leaving the singer to navigate the complexities of fame on his own. He noted that even when 2Face became the subject of public scrutiny for his relationships, he chose not to interfere, respecting the singer’s autonomy as an adult.
“Even when he was becoming the butt of jokes by some comedians for being a womaniser, I didn’t call him to question him because he’s a mature man,” Ogungbe continued. “Every man has his cross to bear, and it wasn’t my place to dictate how he should live his personal life after he moved on from the label.”
2Face’s personal life, particularly his relationships and fatherhood, has been a recurring topic of discussion over the years. At the height of his career, he made headlines for his involvement with multiple women, leading to several children with different mothers. Despite the public’s fascination with his personal life, 2Face has managed to maintain his status as one of Nigeria’s most celebrated artists.
In 2012, 2Face married Annie Idibia, one of his long-time partners and the mother of two of his children. The couple’s love story has been both admired and scrutinized, as they have faced numerous challenges, including publicized controversies and speculations about their relationship. However, they have consistently displayed resilience and commitment to each other, solidifying their place as one of Nigeria’s most iconic celebrity couples.
Kennis Music, under Ogungbe’s leadership, played a pivotal role in shaping 2Face’s career, providing him with a platform to showcase his talent to a global audience. The label’s influence extended beyond music production, as it sought to instill values and discipline in its artists, ensuring their success both on and off the stage.
The story of 2Face’s early career and the protective measures implemented by Kennis Music offers a glimpse into the complexities of managing young talents in the entertainment industry. While the label’s efforts to guide him were commendable, his journey also underscores the inevitability of personal choices and their consequences.
Ogungbe’s revelations have sparked conversations about the role of record labels in the personal lives of their artists. Some industry insiders argue that such interventions are necessary to safeguard young stars from the pressures of fame, while others believe that artists should be allowed to navigate their personal lives independently.
For 2Face, the challenges of balancing fame and personal responsibilities have been a significant aspect of his life story. Despite the controversies, he remains a trailblazer in the Nigerian music industry, with numerous awards and accolades to his name. His music continues to resonate with fans across generations, cementing his legacy as one of Africa’s greatest music icons.
Ogungbe’s candid remarks about 2Face’s early career highlight the dedication and challenges faced by record labels in nurturing young talents. The efforts by Kennis Music to protect and guide 2Face during his formative years underscore the importance of creating a supportive environment for artists, especially as they navigate the pressures of fame.
As the conversation around artist management and personal responsibility evolves, 2Face’s story serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in balancing professional success with personal choices. While Kennis Music’s influence may have been limited to the duration of his contract, the lessons and discipline imparted during that time undoubtedly contributed to shaping the artist and individual he has become.
2Face’s journey from a young, promising artist to a global icon is a testament to his resilience, talent, and the support he received during his early career. His relationship with Kennis Music remains a significant chapter in his story, reflecting the dynamic interplay between artist management and personal growth.
In sharing these insights, Ogungbe has provided fans and industry observers with a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by young talents and the role of record labels in fostering their development. The revelations also serve as a tribute to the enduring legacy of Kennis Music and its contributions to the Nigerian music industry.
Through it all, 2Face has emerged as a symbol of perseverance, creativity, and the enduring power of music to transcend boundaries. His journey continues to inspire a new generation of artists, reminding them of the importance of discipline, focus, and staying true to their craft amidst the distractions of fame.
