Iyanya reveals that mentorship and trusted guidance have been central to sustaining his 17-year career in music and maintaining a positive reputation

Afrobeats singer Iyanya has attributed his 17-year-long success in the entertainment industry to guidance and mentorship, emphasising the importance of submitting to trusted counsel to maintain a positive reputation and navigate the challenges of fame.

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Speaking on a recent episode of the Afropolitan Podcast, Iyanya highlighted the critical role of trusted individuals in keeping celebrities grounded amid the trappings of success.

“You need one, two, or three people in your life to help keep you grounded because everything is going to happen so fast, and none of it is real,” Iyanya said.

“You’re going to walk into a President’s office, he’s going to know your name, he’s going to sing your song, but it’s not real. The same guy, if you’re not popping two or three years later, is not going to remember you. They will have to remind him about your meeting with him.”

Iyanya urged fellow entertainers to seek guidance and take counsel from mentors, explaining that trusted advisors provide moral support and help navigate the highs and lows of the industry with clarity and purpose.

“I have been able to maintain fame positively for 17 years because of guidance,” he said.

“I advised my younger self not to take things personally because every famous person or entertainer needs guidance.”

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The singer’s remarks shed light on the often-overlooked importance of mentorship in sustaining longevity in the entertainment sector, especially amid the pressures and unpredictability of fame.