Ruger, a bold and fearless star from Nigeria, has taken his distinctive twist on Afrobeats to the stage in London.
The 24-year-old singer recently parted ways with his old record label to form his own, granting him newfound freedom and control. As he prepares for his first headline show in London, his excitement is palpable.
A New Chapter in Ruger’s Career
Ruger’s decision to leave his former record label and establish his own was transformative. “I understand the business more now,” he reveals, acknowledging the increased stress but also the deeper sense of control. This newfound independence has allowed Ruger to be more enlightened and at peace as he embarks on this new chapter in his career.
He is currently preparing for his first headline show in London, a significant milestone for any artist. Britain’s capital city is a major hub for Afrobeats music, and Ruger acknowledges its importance. “If your song is big here, it is big around the world,” he states confidently.
Distinctive Sound and Style
Ruger stands out in the Afrobeats scene due to his distinctive use of Jamaican Patois and his refusal to repeat melodies, giving each song a fresh energy. “That’s why you know a Ruger song when you hear a Ruger song,” he explains. “My delivery is different, my lyricism is different.”
His upbringing in Lagos and the influence of Jamaican artists like Chronixx, Kranium, Popcaan, Gyptian, and Buju Banton have shaped his unique blend of dancehall and Afrobeats. This fusion is evident in his hit song Asiwaju, which peaked at number two on the UK Afrobeats chart and boasts over 127 million streams on Spotify.
Rise to Fame
Ruger’s rise in the music industry has been meteoric. With 2.5 million Instagram followers and over four million monthly Spotify listeners, his influence is undeniable. Emerging artists are taking note of the unique energy he brings to the scene. “I’m creating another path… I am also doing my own thing,” Ruger mentions.
Known for his bright pink hair and pirate-esque eye patch, Ruger emphasises the importance of individuality in achieving success. He urges new artists to identify something distinctive about their music and “hold on to it” to elevate their brand.
Lessons from Conflict
Ruger has also faced conflict in his career, notably a highly-publicised online beef with fellow Nigerian singer BNXN. This rivalry, fuelled by fans comparing the two artists, came to a head when they competed for a prize at the Headies in 2022. BNXN ultimately won, but the former rivals eventually called a truce and collaborated on the joint album “RnB” released earlier this year.
Reflecting on this experience, Ruger acknowledges the importance of growth and collaboration. “We grow, you understand,” he says. “We grow and we elevate together. That’s the most important thing.” This maturity underscores his ability to navigate the complexities of the music industry.
Future Collaborations
Ruger has his sights set on future collaborations with global superstars such as Doja Cat, Future, and Adele. “Just her soft voice and mine doing something amazing. I trust it to be mad!” he exclaims with enthusiasm. Such collaborations would further cement his place in the global music scene.
As the Afrobeats genre continues to expand globally, Ruger is mindful of the pressures and challenges that come with it. He notes that some artists produce music lacking substance, driven by financial incentives rather than artistic integrity. This is a concern for Ruger, who remains committed to authenticity in his work.
Commitment to Craft
Despite the evolving music industry, Ruger remains steadfast in his commitment to his craft. “Times change,” he says, “I feel like you can either change with the time or do whatever you like.” This philosophy reflects his dedication to staying true to his artistic vision while adapting to new trends.
For now, Ruger’s focus is on delivering an unforgettable performance for his fans. “I feel blessed… This is my first headline show in London, it’s long overdue,” he shares, highlighting the significance of this upcoming event.
To Ruger, the journey is just as important as the destination. His ability to blend cultural influences, maintain individuality, and learn from conflicts are the keys to his ongoing success. As he continues to break boundaries, Ruger is set to make an indelible mark on the music world.
Continuing Influence
Ruger’s influence extends beyond his music. His fearless approach and unique style serve as an inspiration for emerging artists. By staying true to his roots and embracing his individuality, Ruger is paving the way for the next generation of musicians.
His performance in London is not just a concert; it is a statement of his bold and fearless journey. With each song, he tells a story of resilience, creativity, and passion. Ruger’s presence in the music industry is a testament to the power of authenticity and innovation.
Ruger’s journey from Lagos to London is a story of bold decisions and artistic excellence.
His distinctive style and fearless approach have set him apart in the Afrobeats scene.
As he continues to innovate and inspire, Ruger’s influence on the global music stage is undeniable.
