Michael Adebayo Olayinka, popularly known by his stage name Ruger, is a Nigerian Afrobeats artiste and songwriter.
He catapulted to stardom with his hit single “Bounce” and secured a record deal with Jonzing World in 2021. The same year, he unveiled his debut EP titled “Pandemic.”
Early Life
Ruger was born on 23 September 1999 in Lagos, Nigeria. He hails from a family with roots in Kogi State.
Showing promise from a young age, Ruger’s musical journey began at the age of eight, singing in his local church choir.
Raised in a household steeped in musical tradition, Ruger’s parents, both natives of Kogi State, nurtured his talent, encouraging him to explore his passion for music.
Education
Growing up in Lagos, Ruger attended primary and secondary school there. Although the specifics of his university education remain undisclosed, Ruger is evidently focused on personal development alongside his music career.
His dedication to both his academic pursuits and musical endeavours underscores his commitment to honing his craft and expanding his horizons.
Career
Ruger’s musical talent flourished during his teenage years, where he actively participated in church choirs and school bands.
His innate ability to captivate audiences with his soulful vocals and magnetic stage presence caught the attention of industry insiders.
Ruger’s breakthrough came when he caught the discerning ear of D’Prince, a prominent figure in the Nigerian music scene, who promptly signed him to the esteemed JONZING WORLD record label.
Fast forward to 2024, Ruger made the decision to part ways with Jonzing World and embark on a new venture by establishing his own imprint, aptly named ‘Blown Boy Entertainment’.
Awards and Nominations
Ruger’s meteoric rise to prominence has been marked by a string of successes and accolades within the music industry.
His hit singles “One Shirt” and “Bounce” garnered widespread acclaim, earning him nominations and awards for his exceptional talent and contribution to Nigerian music.
His ability to seamlessly blend various musical influences into his distinct sound has endeared him to fans across the globe, solidifying his status as a rising star in the industry.
Personal Life
At 23 years old, Ruger maintains a low-profile personal life, preferring to let his music speak for itself.
Despite his burgeoning fame, Ruger remains grounded, attributing his success to hard work, determination, and unwavering support from his loved ones.
His relationship with Nigerian actress Laraba Pwajok adds a touch of intrigue to his personal narrative, resonating with fans of Nigerian cinema and music alike.
Social Media Handles
Ruger’s growing fan base frequently engages with him on social media platforms, eagerly anticipating his future releases and collaborations.
His active presence on platforms such as Instagram and Twitter with the handle @rugerofficial allows fans to connect with him on a more personal level, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among followers.
Discography
Ruger’s discography boasts an impressive array of hits, each showcasing his unique blend of musical styles and influences. His notable works include:
- Asiwaju (2023)
- Girlfriend (2022)
- Bienvenue (2023)
- Kristy (2023)
- Bounce (2021)
- Blue (2023)
- Dior (2022)
- WeWe (2022)
- Tour (2023)
- Red Flags (2023)
- Jonzing Boy (2023)
- Snapchat (2022)
- I Want Peace (2023)
- Ashana (2023)
- Bun Bun (2023)
- Ruger (2021)
- Dear Ex (2023)
- Addiction (2023)
- Nine (2023)
- BoyToy (2023)
- Likely (2023)
- Holy Ground (2023)
- All My Days (2023)
- Island Girl (2023)
- Useless (2022)
- Bow (2021)
- Abu Dhabi (2021)
- Champion (2022)
- Warning (2022)
- One Shirt (2021)
- Monalisa (2021)
- Yekpa (2021)
Controversy
In a recent interview with Beat 99.9 FM, Ruger stirred controversy with his remarks regarding Nigerian women.
Describing them as “toxic” and “deceitful,” the 24-year-old musician sparked heated reactions from fans and critics alike.
His comments ignited a firestorm of debate on social media, with supporters and detractors alike voicing their opinions on the matter.
Reactions ranged from staunch defense of Nigerian women to criticism of Ruger’s comments, highlighting the contentious nature of his statements within the cultural landscape. Some condemned Ruger for perpetuating negative stereotypes and fostering division within his own community, while others defended his right to express his personal opinions, however controversial they may be.
Net Worth
With successful releases and lucrative deals, Ruger’s net worth is estimated to be $400,000, a testament to his burgeoning career and potential for future growth.
