Nigerian Afrobeat artist Bella Shmurda has opened up about a profound shift in his worldview following the death of his friend and collaborator, Mohbad, whose passing last year continues to reverberate within the music community and beyond. During a candid conversation on a recent TikTok livestream hosted by influencer Joblaq, the singer reflected on how the tragedy prompted a period of personal reevaluation and clarity.
Mohbad, a rising star in Nigeria’s vibrant music scene known for hits like “Peace” and “Ponmo,” died under disputed circumstances on September 12, 2023, sparking widespread grief and unresolved questions. Shmurda, who collaborated with Mohbad on tracks such as “Cash App,” described the loss as a catalyst for introspection. “After he passed away, my brain reset—everything changed,” he said. “The way I see things in life also changed.”
The artist likened his emotional journey to a lesson parents often impart to children. “There’s a time they tell us when we misbehave, ‘You’re misbehaving, right? Don’t worry—very soon you will understand,’” he shared. “I’m currently in that phase where I’m starting to understand. I have understood certain things.” While Shmurda did not elaborate on specific realizations, his emphasis on renewed clarity hints at a deeper reckoning with mortality and purpose.
Mohbad’s death at 27 sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s entertainment industry, where he was celebrated for his gritty lyricism and collaborations with major acts like Naira Marley. Though authorities have yet to disclose a definitive cause of death, initial reports of a prior hospitalization and conflicts with associates fueled public speculation. Fans and fellow artists, including Shmurda, have since called for transparency, with tributes underscoring the late musician’s influence on Afro-fusion and street-hop subgenres.
For Shmurda, whose real name is Akinbiyi Abiola Ahmed, the loss appears to have prompted both personal and artistic reflection. Known for his socially conscious tracks addressing Nigeria’s economic struggles, he has increasingly used his platform to advocate for mental health awareness—a theme that resonates more deeply in the wake of his friend’s untimely death. The singer’s candid remarks during the livestream offer a glimpse into how grief can reshape perspectives, particularly in an industry where young artists often navigate intense pressures.
As tributes to Mohbad continue to surface, Shmurda’s journey of “rediscovery” underscores the enduring impact of loss on creativity and identity. His experience reflects a broader narrative of resilience within Nigeria’s fast-paced music scene, where artists frequently channel personal hardship into their work. While questions surrounding Mohbad’s death remain unanswered, the conversations it has sparked—about legacy, accountability, and the cost of fame—highlight the interconnectedness of art and lived experience in shaping cultural discourse.
