Nigerian singer Kingsley Okonkwo, known as Kcee, has opened up about the long-speculated tension between him and fellow highlife star Flavour.

The pair publicly clashed in 2024 after Flavour made a cryptic post accusing an unnamed artiste of copying his musical style. Though he didn’t mention names, Kcee fired back, warning him against gatekeeping Igbo cultural music and reminding him that he had been in the industry long before Flavour.

Speaking in a recent interview with Yanga FM Lagos, Kcee suggested the friction may date back to their first meeting—when talent manager Soso Soberekon introduced Flavour to him as a potential signee.

Kcee revealed he declined to sign the singer because, at the time, he didn’t see enough potential.

He explained:
“Till now, I still don’t understand his issue with me. When people expect you to remain stagnant and you grow beyond their expectations, it becomes a problem. That’s what happened.”

Kcee added that he had already achieved success before Flavour came to Lagos.
“Soso brought Flavour to me years ago. I told him I couldn’t sign him because I didn’t see the potentials then—not because I had anything against him.”

He said he doubts the rejection is the real reason for the grudge but believes time will eventually reveal the truth.

According to Kcee, many colleagues underestimate his talent because of his humility.
“I don’t brag, and some mistake that for lack of talent. But my work always proves doubters wrong. Some who once looked down on me have come back to apologise.”