Super Eagles and Fulham FC midfielder Alex Iwobi has officially launched his debut musical project under the stage name 17, titled More to Life. The 9-track EP is a deeply personal venture that seeks to define Iwobi’s identity beyond the football pitch. The project’s title reflects his desire to be seen as a multi-dimensional creative, using music to navigate themes of fame, family, and the pressures of professional sports.
The EP features an impressive list of collaborators, including Fido, Giddi, SPKS, and even fellow footballer Amadou Onana (performing as 24AM). Standout tracks like Track 0 (Freestyle) and Joga Bonito blend smooth Afrobeats with UK rap influences, creating a sound that reflects Iwobi’s dual heritage as a London-raised Nigerian. The production is surprisingly polished for a debut, opting for a laid-back, Afrowave aesthetic that suits Iwobi’s conversational vocal style.
Lyrically, More to Life is introspective. In tracks like Letter and Double Double, Iwobi discusses the mental health challenges of being a public figure and the importance of loyalty. The project serves as a creative outlet for the backlash and criticism he has faced in his football career, allowing him to reclaim his narrative. It is an honest, albeit sometimes unpolished, look at the man behind the jersey.
While music critics have noted that the project is still finding its defining voice, the early reception from fans has been largely supportive, praising the bravery required to cross over into a new industry. Iwobi’s More to Life is a significant cultural moment, reinforcing a growing trend of elite athletes exploring their creative passions. It’s an EP about growth, proving that there is indeed “more to life” than the 90 minutes on the pitch.
Listen to More To Life here.
