Joe El Reflects on Career Struggles Due to Resemblance to 2Baba
Nigerian singer Joe El Amadi recently opened up about the challenges he faced in his music career due to his strong resemblance to iconic musician 2Baba. In a candid discussion on the ‘Hoha’ podcast, Joe El shared how constant comparisons to 2Baba not only affected his opportunities but also limited his access to key platforms in the music industry.
Joe El recounted specific incidents where music executives and media professionals denied him access solely because he looked like 2Baba. He explained that the likeness often led to assumptions that he was trying to imitate the legendary artist. “The downsides of 2Baba comparisons almost broke me down. Some presenters at Cool FM, Sound City, and even an event planner at Festac Carnival 2013, refused me access to their platforms, citing my resemblance to 2Baba,” Joe El said.
In one particular instance, he recalled being confronted by a Sound City presenter at Club Rumours, who bluntly stated that he had ordered his team not to play Joe El’s music, perceiving it as an imitation of 2Baba’s style. Additionally, he shared how the event planner at the 2013 Festac Carnival denied him a performance spot, saying, “I won’t let you perform because you look like our King, 2Face.” Joe El also mentioned a similar situation at Cool FM, where a presenter refused to interview him for the same reason.
The constant rejection took a toll on Joe El, leading him to confide in his mother and his record label boss, Baba Keke. Both encouraged him to remain patient and keep pushing forward. However, even when he attempted to pay homage to 2Baba in public settings, Joe El often faced resistance from members of 2Baba’s team, who would prevent him from approaching the artist.
Despite these hurdles, Joe El noted a positive shift in public perception after he collaborated with 2Baba on the song “Hold On” in 2015. The collaboration helped showcase Joe El’s unique talent and allowed fans to see him in a different light, apart from the comparisons to 2Baba.
After spending 12 years with Kennis Music, Joe El recently departed from the label, explaining simply, “The contract was over.” Through persistence and talent, Joe El has continued to make strides in his career, demonstrating resilience despite the obstacles posed by his resemblance to one of Nigeria’s biggest music icons.
