When Ice Prince Zamani dropped Oleku over a decade ago, it wasn’t just a hit—it was a cultural shift. It bridged mainstream Afrobeats with the raw intensity of rap, making him one of Nigeria’s most respected rap voices. But like many artists, he’s faced highs and lows since then. With his latest project, Starters, Ice Prince seems more focused and intentional than he’s been in years, using this 8-track offering as both a reintroduction and a reminder of what he stands for.
A Fresh Start, Not a Reset
As the title suggests, Starters plays like the opening course of a larger feast Ice Prince may be preparing for 2025. It’s concise but rich, a tightly packed collection that reflects a seasoned artist with something to prove—not to the industry, but to himself and to his listeners. The goal is clear: reconnect with longtime fans and introduce the man behind the mic to a new generation.
From the jump, Shakur sets the tone. It’s bold, brassy, and backed by boom bap percussion that gives it a classic marching-band energy. Ice doesn’t mince words—he’s back, focused, and unmoved by the noise around him. It’s a strong opener that reestablishes his presence in a scene that often sidelines lyricism.
The Sound of a Veteran
The album’s production is one of its strongest points, thanks largely to veteran producer Chopstix. Known for his genre-blending prowess, Chopstix crafts beats that are stripped of unnecessary noise, instead favoring crisp percussion and layered melodies that allow Ice Prince’s bars to breathe. His standout contribution is arguably on Slap the Ring, a track built around a nostalgic reggae-influenced hip-hop beat reminiscent of early 2000s soundscapes.
On Slap the Ring, Ice Prince raps from the perspective of a Lagos hustler with deep roots in Jos. He paints a gritty portrait of ambition, visa struggles, and family responsibilities. The track isn’t just introspective; it’s a declaration of why he grinds so hard. He closes the second verse by demanding respect—not because of ego, but because of earned dues.
Personal and Poetic Moments
Ice Prince gets deeply personal on Only Son, where he explores the complexities of being the sole male child in his family. The track is a tribute to resilience, capturing how he rose from a young boy with blocked opportunities to a man his family can rely on. It ends with a powerful call to other only sons to take pride in their role and strive to uplift their families.
Another emotional highlight is Roots, a mid-tempo boom bap number that sees Ice Prince pay homage to his hometown, Jos. He credits the city with shaping his voice and helping him overcome insecurities in his youth. It’s a touching ode to self-discovery through music, showing that beneath the swagger is a man shaped by hardship and healing.
Love, Loss, and Lyrical Spite
The album explores Ice Prince’s romantic past with two very different tracks. Thinking About You is less of a love song and more of a diss track. With biting lyrics and confrontational energy, Ice lets his ex know that she’s no longer on his mind. He even hints at knowing secrets that could “end her career,” giving the track a raw, unfiltered edge.
Jerkinla, on the other hand, is gentler—a plea to a current lover not to leave. Ice taps into vulnerability here, confessing his fear of loss and his desire to keep the relationship intact. It balances the album’s aggressive moments with emotional nuance.
Feature Highlights: Bella Shmurda and TML Vibez
Ice Prince doesn’t go it alone on Starters. On Loke, he teams up with Bella Shmurda and TML Vibez for an energetic street-pop anthem about elevation and resilience. Bella’s raw vocal delivery complements Ice’s composed verses, while TML Vibez adds melodic smoothness that gives the track radio-friendly appeal. It’s one of the most accessible songs on the album and could easily become a fan favorite with the right push.
Final Thoughts
Starters isn’t just a comeback—it’s a statement. Ice Prince reminds everyone why he’s a respected figure in Nigerian hip-hop. The lyrics are sharp, the production is top-tier, and the stories he tells are real and relatable. This project may only be eight tracks long, but it punches well above its weight.
In a year where Nigerian hip-hop is experiencing a bit of a revival, Starters comes at the right time. With the right promotional effort and industry support, several tracks from this project could achieve mainstream success. But even if they don’t, Ice Prince has done what he set out to do: show that he still has the hunger, the skill, and the story worth listening to.
