Super Eagles International and Fulham star Alex Iwobi has released his debut album under his moniker “17”, an ode to his jersey number. The nine-track project features previous Everton team mate Amadou Onana under the moniker “24 am”, Nigerian pop sensation Fido, London-based duo 4am & Gidii, and British acts SPKS and TeniolaTime.
Iwobi has been recording music since he was a teen, and although football is his main profession, the midfielder feels it’s finally time to let people hear what he can do on the mic. In June 2024, Iwobi dropped his debut EP – a two-track project titled “Don’t Shoot”. The project featured songs: Don’t Shoot with former Arsenal team mate Chuba Akpom aka Scoli and Don EE, and Sunrise In Paris featuring P17 and frequent collaborator SPKS. Don’t Shoot addressed the worrying trajectory of needless youth violence and its damage to society.
Iwobi has been releasing music steadily, showing a seriousness in displaying his talent that few sportsmen display. Notable successes like Memphis Depay and basketballer Damian Lillard are the exception, not the norm. Iwobi, however, seems to be towing that line with a discography that suggests music is more than a hobby for the footballer.
In 2024, he released What’s Luv featuring Mbrown and SPKS. The song finds the Fulham star rapping over melodic afro-rhythms infused with jazzy and Caribbean strings and drums, complemented by the collaborating talents. In 2025, he released Hop Out to moderate acclaim. The track featured popular British singer Ramz and fast-rising Nigerian Hip-Hop sensation Odumodublvck.
Two quick releases followed in 2025. Que Pasa with SPKS and a two-track joint tape with SPKS titled Not Like Us, likely inspired by Kendrick Lamar’s infamous diss track. The Lagos-born former Arsenal star leans heavily into the rap genre, inspired by British Drill and Grime, creating a unique confluence with afrobeats from his motherland. Several footballers and athletes have gone on to have varying hobbies in entertainment, and it’s not surprising to see Alex Iwobi follow in these footsteps.
On “More To Life,” Iwobi explores the different sides to his character. A persona far more human and multi-dimensional than the on-screen football star churning out head-turning performances weekly. On the album, he finds a delicate balance between his luxury lifestyle, Nigerian culture, football, and his love interests over afro-infused hip-hop instrumentals. Beyond the surface, the rapper displays serious talent and adequate lyricism, proving that indeed there is more to his life than 3 points on the pitch.
Iwobi has been in fine form of late, playing a key role for Fulham in the middle of the park and becoming an integral part of the Super Eagles squad. He has racked up 4 goals and 3 assists for the Cottagers this season, but his value is in dictating play for the team. Staying true to his promise, the athlete has indicated that music will not hinder his profession, and he seems to be keeping it that way.
