Iyanya Credits Guidance for 17-Year Longevity in Music Industry

Nigerian singer Iyanya Onoyom Mbuk, popularly known as Iyanya, has opened up about how mentorship and guidance have helped him sustain a successful career in the entertainment industry for 17 years.

Speaking on a recent episode of the Afropolitan Podcast, Iyanya reflected on the pressures of fame and the importance of staying grounded amidst the highs and lows of celebrity life. He emphasized that relying on trusted individuals for counsel has been critical to maintaining perspective.

“I have been able to maintain fame positively for 17 years because of guidance. I advised my younger self not to take things personal because every famous person or entertainer needs guidance,” he said.

Iyanya explained that fame can be deceptive, with moments of recognition often fleeting. “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,” he added, warning that public validation can disappear as quickly as it comes.

He encouraged other entertainers to submit themselves to trusted advisors who can provide moral support, guidance, and direction, helping them navigate both career growth and personal development.

Opinion:
Iyanya’s reflections offer a valuable lesson not only to aspiring entertainers but to anyone navigating high-pressure environments. Fame and success can be intoxicating, yet without grounding influences, it’s easy to lose focus. His emphasis on mentorship and guidance highlights the importance of surrounding oneself with honest advisors who can offer perspective when the world’s applause fades.

In a society that often glorifies celebrity lifestyles, Iyanya’s candid words remind us that longevity and meaningful success are as much about humility, discipline, and counsel as they are about talent.