My song, Ruggedy Baba, helped shape sound, identity of Nigerian music – Ruggedman

Veteran rapper and actor, Ruggedman, has called on pioneers of Nigerian hip-hop to take charge of their stories and preserve their legacies.

Speaking with Sunday Scoop, the rapper revealed that younger generation focuses on trending acts rather than the individuals who helped build the industry.

Reflecting on the global success of Nigerian music, his contributions to the evolution of hip-hop, his journey into Nollywood, and the legacy he hopes to leave behind, Ruggedman expressed pride in the international recognition Nigerian music currently enjoys, noting that he played a significant role in shaping its trajectory.

He said, “I feel great about the recognition Nigerian music is receiving today because I played a major part in making it happen. When I released Ehen Part 1 featuring Nomoreloss, it challenged the celebration of mediocrity in the industry at the time and pushed artists to raise their standards. In many ways, it served as a wake-up call, not just for rappers but for musicians across the board.”

The rapper also highlighted his hit song Ruggedy Baba, featuring 9ice, as one of the records that contributed to redefining contemporary Nigerian music.

“Ruggedy Baba helped redirect the sound and identity of Nigerian music. I encouraged artists to embrace local languages and create a distinct identity for our music. Today, many of the biggest records have elements of indigenous dialects, and that was part of the message we promoted years ago.”

Despite the progress of the industry, Ruggedman expressed concern that many pioneers are not receiving the recognition they deserve in an era dominated by social media trends.

“Unfortunately, we live in a social media-driven generation that follows whatever is trending. Many people don’t care whether it makes sense or not; once it goes viral, everyone jumps on it,” he said.

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According to him, younger audiences often recognise current stars without understanding the contributions of the artists who paved the way.

“If pioneers leave their stories in the hands of new-generation DJs, promoters and presenters, they will eventually be forgotten. These youngsters may know who is trending, but they do not necessarily know who laid the foundation. That’s why those who built the culture must find ways to tell their own stories and stay relevant.”

Beyond music, Ruggedman has also established a presence in Nollywood, a move he described as the fulfilment of a long-held dream.

“I’ve always enjoyed taking on new challenges, but acting has been something I wanted to do for a long time. Growing up, I watched films and sitcoms and imagined what it would be like to be on the other side of the screen.

“After building my brand in music, the opportunity to enter the film industry came, and I took it. The experience has reinforced my belief that no dream is impossible. Sometimes it’s simply a matter of patience, preparation and waiting for the right opportunity.”