Nigerian artist Crown Uzama, widely known as Shallipopi, has shared a heartfelt story about his struggles before achieving fame.

The ‘Elon Musk Boys’ hitmaker opened up about the sacrifices he made to support his family, revealing that his journey to stardom was filled with hard work, resilience, and a refusal to give up despite overwhelming odds.

Taking to his X handle on Saturday, Shallipopi reflected on his humble beginnings after some criticized him for his statement about the importance of money to manhood.

He shared how his early days were marked by odd jobs and relentless determination to make ends meet.

From working as a bricklayer and painter to taking on other labor-intensive jobs like plastering and POP work, the artist said he did whatever was necessary to provide for himself and his family.

Shallipopi also recounted performing in clubs in Benin City for as little as N5,000 to help his mother pay bills.

Shallipopi would sneak out of the house at night to freestyle at local clubs like Jokers, returning home with just enough money to make a difference.

He described his experiences traveling across Nigeria, touring the 36 states not for fame but to survive and put food on the table.

He passionately wrote, “I’ve been to every part of Nigeria, going from town to town just to survive. I don’t know where you’re from, but you shouldn’t talk to me about shame.

This country is tough, and it doesn’t smile at anyone.

I’ve done everything from construction work to painting, working at workshops, and even performing at clubs for a few thousand naira just to help my mum.”