Nigerian Afrobeats sensation, Anthony Ebuka Victor, popularly known as Victony, has made a startling revelation about his music career, disclosing that he has never performed on stage without taking alcohol — until now. The “Soweto” crooner made this confession during a recent interview with Behind The Prestige, where he opened up about the personal challenges he’s trying to overcome during his current ‘Stubborn’ tour.
Known for his melodic tunes and introspective lyrics, Victony admitted that alcohol had long become a crutch that helped him deal with stage anxiety and connect with his audience. However, the singer noted that he is intentionally challenging himself to break free from this dependency in order to experience a more authentic connection with his fans.
“I’m trying to do this tour so wow. It’s a big challenge. I have never been on stage without taking alcohol. But [for this tour], I’m trying to see my fans clearly and truly connect with them. I just want to try,” he said.
The singer’s confession has drawn attention from fans and mental health advocates alike, as it opens a broader conversation about the pressures artists face behind the scenes, including performance anxiety, mental stress, and the use of substances to cope.
Victony’s struggle with alcohol is not the only personal challenge he has battled in recent years. In April 2021, the singer survived a devastating car accident that left him wheelchair-bound and led to multiple surgeries. His resilience through this painful recovery journey has endeared him to fans and further cemented his public image as a fighter and a voice of inspiration among Gen Z Afrobeats lovers.
The “Kolomental” singer previously revealed he had undergone four surgeries, with a fifth one scheduled — a reminder that fame doesn’t shield artists from private battles. His openness about his trauma, heartbreak, and emotional growth continues to shape his music, earning him accolades both at home and abroad.
As Victony sets his sights on a more sober and intentional tour experience, it marks a notable turning point in his career — one that fans and critics alike are eager to observe. His resolve to perform without alcohol shows growth and vulnerability, setting a new standard for young artists navigating fame and mental well-being.
Music industry analysts note that Victony’s decision could inspire other artists dealing with similar pressures to address substance use and develop healthier coping mechanisms. His fans have taken to social media to express admiration for his honesty, with many praising him for “being real” and showing courage.
The ‘Stubborn’ tour, which kicked off earlier this year, is a celebration of Victony’s rise in the Nigerian and global music scene. However, with his new commitment to perform free of alcohol influence, it is also a deeply personal journey — one aimed at reconnecting with himself and those who have supported him throughout his journey.
“This is more than just music. It’s about transparency, growth, and the will to evolve,” a fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter), reacting to the interview.
As conversations around mental health, addiction, and fame become more mainstream in Nigeria’s entertainment industry, Victony’s confession may serve as a wake-up call and a beacon of encouragement. While his music continues to top charts, his newfound vulnerability and commitment to personal growth is likely to resonate even deeper with fans — both on and off the stage.