Ruger Speaks Out About Untalented Artists Gaining Popularity in Nigeria’s Music Scene
Ruger, a well-known Nigerian singer, has recently expressed his concerns about the growing trend of untalented artists gaining popularity in the Nigerian music industry, mainly because of heavy promotion. The artist, whose real name is Michael Adebayo Olayinka, explained that it’s frustrating to see artists with little or no talent rise to fame simply because they can afford to promote themselves. He shared his thoughts on X, saying that it hurts him to see artists who are not skilled gaining attention just because they have money to pay for hype.
Ruger’s frustration doesn’t end there. He also criticized the widespread use of autotune in performances. According to him, some artists over-rely on autotune, especially during live stage shows, which, in his opinion, damages the authenticity of the performance. He pointed out that autotune should not be used during speaking moments on stage, as it alters the natural voice too much. Ruger made it clear that he doesn’t need such enhancements in his performances, emphasizing the importance of genuine talent over technical fixes.
In addition to his criticism of autotune and over-hyped artists, Ruger recently made a bold statement about the state of talent in Nigeria’s music industry. He claimed that there are fewer than five truly talented musicians in the country, adding that many others are simply making music for fun or “cruise,” without much focus on real artistry. While he did not name specific artists, Ruger emphasized that the number of true musical talents is very small, suggesting that the quality of music is being overshadowed by promotional tactics.
Despite not naming his fellow talented artists, Ruger made it clear that he considers himself among them. He humbly pointed out that while he may not be the biggest artist in Nigeria, he is confident in his own musical abilities. He stated that he belongs to the group of true artists who focus on making quality music, unlike those who are only looking to gain popularity for the sake of fame. His remarks reflect his passion for authentic music, and he seems frustrated by the industry’s trend of valuing hype over substance.
Ruger’s concern about the state of Nigerian music comes at a time when he is making significant strides in his career. He recently launched his own record label, Blown Boy Entertainment, after parting ways with Jonzing World, the label that helped him rise to fame. He expressed gratitude for his time with Jonzing World, especially for the support of D’Prince, but mentioned that it was time for him to take a step toward independence and trust in his potential. This move marks a new chapter for Ruger, who gained popularity in 2021 with hits like “Ruger” under the Jonzing World label, an affiliate of Don Jazzy’s Mavin Records.
Ruger has received numerous accolades for his musical talent, including the Best Newcomer award at the AFRIMA in 2021 and the Best New Artist award at the 2023 Soundcity MVP Awards. His achievements also include winning the Best New Act in Africa at the 2022 Afrima Awards, solidifying his place as a rising star in the Nigerian music scene. Despite the challenges he faces with the current state of the industry, Ruger continues to thrive and make music that reflects his passion and authenticity.
Ruger’s comments have sparked a conversation about the role of promotion in shaping the success of artists, especially in an industry where money often speaks louder than talent. His concerns about the use of autotune and the focus on hype rather than skill highlight a growing divide between commercial success and artistic integrity in the Nigerian music industry. As Ruger continues to carve out his path in the music world, his call for more genuine music and talent remains an important conversation in the industry.
In conclusion, Ruger’s outspoken comments about untalented artists and the overuse of autotune show his commitment to the preservation of authentic music in Nigeria. His move to start his label reflects his desire to make music on his own terms and trust in his talents. As the Nigerian music industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Ruger’s voice influences the future of music in the country.
