Nigerian Afro-Juju legend, Sir Shina Peters, has opened up about his extraordinary journey in the entertainment industry, revealing that he became a father at just 14 years old and achieved major life milestones while still in his teenage years.
In a teaser for the upcoming episode of The Honest Bunch podcast, set to air at 6 p.m. on Monday, the veteran musician gave a rare and deeply personal account of his early beginnings, professional achievements, and his current outlook on the Nigerian music industry.
“I started my career at the age of 10. I had my first child at 14. I bought my first car at 13. I built my first house at 16,” the 67-year-old singer revealed, reflecting on his youthful success and rapid rise to fame.
Peters, born Oluwashina Akanbi Peters, said the interview would be an unfiltered and transparent conversation about his life, music, and the evolution of the industry. He made it clear that he intends to speak candidly about the changes he has witnessed over the decades.
“This interview will be blunt and unfiltered because they have bastardised what people like us suffered for — what we cried to God to change. By His grace, He did, but now they’ve changed it back. I won’t be part of that,” he said.
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The veteran performer, fondly known as SSP, became a household name after forming his band Sir Shina Peters & His International Stars in the 1980s. His energetic performances and fusion of Juju and Afrobeat helped pioneer a new sound that inspired a generation of Nigerian musicians. His 1989 album Ace (Afro-Juju Series 1) achieved double platinum status and cemented his legacy as one of the most innovative forces in Nigerian music history.
Speaking on his creative process and the challenges he faces in today’s music environment, Shina Peters admitted that he currently finds it difficult to record new songs, citing a lack of inspiration in the present atmosphere.
“Sixty-five percent of my fans are Igbos, not Yorubas. My fans are demanding that I give them new music, but I don’t just go to the studio. I can’t go to the studio, the atmosphere is not conducive for me. I don’t know what to sing,” he confessed.
His words reflect the struggle of many veteran artists who have witnessed dramatic shifts in Nigeria’s music industry — from live instrumental performances and lyrical depth to digital production and instant-hit culture. Peters, however, remains a respected figure whose influence continues to shape modern Afrobeats and Juju fusion sounds.
Before launching his own band, Peters honed his craft under the mentorship of music greats such as Chief Ebenezer Obey and General Prince Adekunle. His early exposure to live performances and instrumentation helped him develop his signature Afro-Juju rhythm — a blend of Yoruba percussion, guitar-driven melodies, and modern groove patterns that revolutionised Nigerian music in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Beyond music, Shina Peters has also navigated several personal and professional challenges throughout his long career. Despite controversies and periods of absence from the spotlight, he has maintained an enduring legacy as one of Nigeria’s most influential entertainers.
His latest revelations on The Honest Bunch offer fans a more intimate glimpse into his journey — from a young boy with dreams and determination to a music legend who redefined an entire genre.
For Peters, his story serves as both a reflection and a cautionary tale about the importance of hard work, integrity, and authenticity in an evolving entertainment landscape.
While fans eagerly anticipate the full interview, many are already praising the legendary musician for his openness and for shedding light on the realities of fame, success, and the cost of greatness.
As one of Nigeria’s living music icons, Shina Peters’ narrative continues to inspire younger generations — proving that greatness often begins with humble beginnings, bold ambition, and an unwavering belief in one’s craft.