Singer Innocent Idibia, better known as 2Baba, turned 50 on Thursday. Widely regarded as one of Africa’s greatest music icons, the ‘African Queen’ crooner has spent more than three decades shaping Afrobeats and influencing generations of artistes.
While his career milestones are well-known, here are five lesser-known facts about the superstar:
Why he first chose ‘2Face’
Early in his career, the singer adopted the stage name “2Face” to separate his personal life from his public persona. He explained that it was a way of distinguishing Innocent Idibia the man from 2Face the artiste.
Becoming 2Baba
In 2016, he officially changed his name from 2Face to 2Baba. According to him, the change reflected maturity and the fact that many of his fans and colleagues had already been calling him “Baba” for years.
Movie cameo
Not many know that 2Baba once ventured into Nollywood. He appeared in the 2014 comedy movie Head Gone, directed by Dare Fasasi (Baba Dee), where he played himself in a cameo role.
Who ‘African Queen’ was dedicated to
The global hit ‘African Queen’ was written as a tribute to African women, but it also had a personal touch. At the time, many believed it was inspired by Annie Macaulay, now his estranged wife, who even featured in the music video. 2Baba has since admitted that Annie was part of the inspiration, though he insists the song celebrates African womanhood generally.
UNHCR goodwill ambassador
In June 2020, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) appointed him a regional goodwill ambassador, in recognition of his activism and efforts to support displaced persons. He had previously worked with the agency, raising funds and awareness for refugees and internally displaced persons
Beyond music, 2Baba is a father of seven children with three women: two daughters with Annie Macaulay, three children with Pero Adeniyi and two sons with Sumbo Adeoye.
He announced in early the year that he and Annie had separated after years of a turbulent marriage. The music star is now in a relationship with Natasha Osawaru, a lawmaker in Edo State.
