Alex Iwobi, the Fulham midfielder, has expressed his desire to utilize both his football career and his burgeoning music endeavor to inspire young individuals. Following the release of his second single, “What’s Luv?”, Iwobi, who performs under the stage name ’17’, shared his views on the significance of his multifaceted pursuits. His debut single, “Don’t Shoot,” released in June, has already made waves, amassing nearly 60,000 streams on Spotify. Through his music, Iwobi aims to convey a powerful message, particularly to those who face challenges growing up in tough environments, such as the area in London where he was raised.
Iwobi’s intention transcends simply creating music; he seeks to motivate young people to embrace their dreams without feeling confined to conventional paths. He stated during an interview with BBC Sport that he is thankful for the platform he has to make a difference. His music serves as a tool to encourage youth to focus on positive aspirations rather than succumb to negative influences. In his first release, he collaborated with former Arsenal teammate Chuba Akpom and ex-England youth international Medy Elito, addressing the issue of street violence and its repercussions for young individuals. His newest track, however, aims to celebrate his African heritage, reflecting the pride and cultural richness he wishes to share.
Despite his active involvement in music, Iwobi is adamant that this creative pursuit will not detract from his football career. He asserts that making music allows him a necessary outlet, helping him unwind and manage the pressures of professional sport. “Creating music doesn’t take anything away from my football; it helps me switch off,” he remarked, emphasizing his commitment to continue honing his skills on the pitch while also making good use of his leisure time. Iwobi has already made his mark in the Premier League this season, netting two goals in nine appearances for Fulham, including a recent equalizer against his former club, Everton.
Iwobi’s artistic endeavors are part of a broader trend wherein numerous footballers have ventured into the music industry. Historical figures such as England legend Paul Gascoigne and the duo Glenn Hoddle and Chris Waddle have recorded music that reached the UK charts, showcasing the intersection of sports and the arts. More recent examples include former Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech, who has presented himself as a talented drummer, and Dion Dublin, an ex-Aston Villa striker who created an original musical instrument called the Dube. These figures have not only entertained fans through their respective sports but have also explored their passion for music, illustrating that athleticism and artistry can coexist.
The phenomenon of footballers in music is not limited to past legends; it continues to inspire current players like Iwobi. His efforts to merge his sporting life with musical creativity resonate with the evolving culture surrounding athletes today, where many are increasingly utilizing their platforms for broader influences. Furthermore, Iwobi represents a new generation of footballers who are keen to express their identities beyond the football pitch, embracing various forms of creativity. By sharing his experiences through music and advocating for positivity in young people’s lives, Iwobi demonstrates the potential for athletes to inspire change and make impactful contributions within their communities.
Through his journey as a musician alongside being a professional football player, Alex Iwobi embodies the spirit of multifaceted representation in contemporary culture. His music not only serves as an artistic outlet but also as a motivational tool aimed at encouraging youth to seek their paths while embracing their diversity. With each release, Iwobi hopes to solidify his legacy as an athlete who has made a difference, thereby becoming a source of inspiration for aspiring dreamers navigating their journeys in challenging environments. As Iwobi continues to develop both his musical and sporting ventures, his commitment to uplifting and inspiring young individuals remains at the forefront of his aspirations.
