Singer Kcee opened up about the emotional impact of repeated award rejections

Afrobeats singer, Kcee, has opened up about the emotional impact of repeated award rejections, revealing that being overlooked by industry organizers once left him in tears.

Speaking on the Afrobeats Intelligence podcast, the “Limpopo” singer said he struggled to gain recognition despite his significant contribution to the world of music.

“I grew up in an industry that was unfair to me. No attention was paid to me at any time. I did a lot of things that the industry didn’t recognize,” he said, recalling the start of his career.

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Kcee noted that even though he didn’t get any award nominations, his fan base remains a constant source of support. “The fans are the ones who support me. I put in a lot of work; they didn’t nominate me for awards. And I cried; I was sad,” he added.

The singer said he has changed his mindset, choosing to detach himself from industry validation after realizing a pattern of exclusion. He now places more importance on commercial success and audience relations than awards. “Right now, when I win an award or you don’t nominate me, I don’t care. I prefer rewards over awards,” he said.

Kcee called the success of songs like “Limpopo” and “Ojapiano” as defining moments in his career, and described them as breakthroughs that resonated globally. He said the viral appeal of “Ojapiano,” particularly on TikTok, underscores the organic reach of his music and reaffirms his focus on fans over awards.