Kcee Opens Up on Years-Long Rift: “I Still Don’t Know Why Flavour Has Beef With Me”

The long-rumoured rift between Nigerian music stars Kcee and Flavour resurfaced over the weekend after Kcee openly addressed the issue once again, revealing that he still has no clear understanding of why the highlife sensation appears to hold a grudge against him. His remarks came during an interview with Yanga FM Lagos, and since the clip went viral, fans across social media have reignited debates about what truly sparked the tension between the two hitmakers.

Kcee, known for his calm demeanour and longstanding presence in the Nigerian music industry, offered insight into the origins of his relationship with Flavour, tracing it back to a time before the singer rose to national prominence. According to him, their first meeting happened many years ago when popular talent manager Soso Soberekon brought Flavour to him in hopes of securing a record deal. At the time, Kcee was already enjoying fame, riding in luxury cars, and dominating the Nigerian entertainment scene. But despite Soso’s encouragement, Kcee said he ultimately didn’t see enough potential to sign Flavour under his label.

That decision, he insists, was not rooted in any personal dislike or rivalry. Yet today, he still struggles to understand why Flavour appears to harbour ill feelings towards him. The tension between both artistes became public in 2024 when Flavour took to social media to subtly accuse an unnamed colleague of copying his style. Though he didn’t mention names, fans quickly linked it to Kcee, especially after Kcee fired back, cautioning him against gatekeeping Igbo traditional music and reminding him that he had been in the industry long before Flavour’s arrival in Lagos. The exchange fueled speculations of a deepening feud, one that neither party has properly addressed until now.

In the new interview, however, Kcee refused to accept the assumption that his initial refusal to sign Flavour is the root of their issues. Instead, he suggested that the tension may stem from something entirely different—possibly from the natural discomfort that arises when one’s expectations are shattered. In his words, “Till now, I don’t understand the reason for his beef with me, especially that incident where he alleged that someone was copying him. The truth is that when some people have already written you off, hoping you would remain stagnant, and you work hard and rise to a level they didn’t expect, that is usually where the problem begins.”

His comments hint at a deeper dynamic beneath the surface: the competitive spirit of the Nigerian music industry, where ego, growth, unexpected success, and rivalry can quietly drive cracks into relationships that once appeared cordial. Kcee emphasised that he came into the industry earlier and had already made his mark before Flavour began gaining traction. He also clarified that he had no personal bias or animosity when he chose not to sign him, insisting that he acted solely on what he perceived at the time. “I told Soso I can’t sign Flavour because I didn’t see potentials in him at that time,” he said. “It wasn’t because I had something against him.”

Yet, he maintained firmly that he does not believe that rejection is the reason for the ongoing tension. “I don’t think that was why he is holding a grudge against me,” he added, leaving fans even more curious about what might truly be behind the strained relationship.

Kcee went further to address a common perception within the industry—that he is often underestimated by his colleagues. He attributed this to his humility and his refusal to brag, noting that many artists tend to confuse confidence with superiority. But for him, his work and longevity speak louder than any public display could. “A lot of my colleagues underrate my talent and my humility also contributed to that,” he explained. “Because I don’t brag. I don’t need it. But as I always say, time will always prove them wrong. My work always proves every doubter wrong.”

He also revealed that over the years, a number of those who once doubted him have come back to apologise, admitting they were wrong about him. That, he says, is enough validation and motivation to continue doing what he loves—without getting distracted by noise or rivalry.

The resurfaced feud has sparked conversations online, with fans divided. Some believe there must be more to the story, while others commend Kcee for his maturity. A few even speculate that the so-called “beef” may be exaggerated by the media. The Yanga FM video clip, now making its rounds on social platforms, has only fuelled the discourse, as fans call for Flavour to finally address the issue publicly.

Despite the renewed attention, Kcee maintained a calm, almost resigned tone throughout the interview, making it clear that he is not interested in animosity or dragging the matter further. Instead, he appeared content to let time unravel the truth—just as it has done with every other challenge he has faced in the industry. His stance reflects a level of emotional intelligence that resonates with many, especially in a space where public confrontations and ego battles often overshadow the music itself.

As both artists continue thriving in their respective careers, many hope that the perceived feud will eventually be resolved. After all, the Nigerian music scene has seen its fair share of broken friendships mended over time. Whether Flavour will respond or clarify his side of the story remains to be seen, but fans are watching closely. For now, Kcee’s words have opened the door to a new chapter in an old conversation—one that may finally push both artists toward a long-overdue reconciliation.

What remains undeniable is the impact both Kcee and Flavour have had on Nigerian music, particularly in promoting highlife and Igbo cultural sound to global audiences. And perhaps, with time—as Kcee himself believes—the truth behind their strained relationship will come to light, allowing both men to stand united again in the genre they have helped shape and elevate.