Nigerian Afrobeats sensation, Michael Adebayo Olayinka, popularly known as Ruger, has pulled back the curtain on what he believes is a harsh reality within the music industry: genuine friendship is rare, and most relationships are built on transactional value rather than true loyalty.
Appearing as a guest on a recent episode of The Stanley Agu Show, Ruger offered unfiltered insight into the nature of relationships in Nigeria’s music scene. According to the Bounce hitmaker, one of his biggest realizations as an artist is understanding that friendship in the industry is often superficial and fleeting.
“One thing I wished I had known earlier is that no one is your friend in the [music] industry,” Ruger said during the interview. “The most you can have is maybe two genuine friends that stand by you and want to see you grow—and even when things are bad, they are with you, making sure that you are good. That’s all, man.”
Ruger, known for his distinctive eye-patch look and high-energy stage presence, didn’t mince words when describing the cold calculations behind many industry relationships. He stressed that affiliations are often maintained only when one has something to offer.
“Everything is business. Nobody cares,” he continued. “They are moving around with you because you can offer [something] at that time. The moment you might not be able to offer anything, a lot of people will switch. Remember, the most friends you can have in the industry might be two, or one, or none.”
The remarks have since sparked a wave of reactions on social media, with fans and fellow entertainers weighing in on the realities Ruger described.
Fan Reactions:
X user @yourmajesty3004 wrote:
“I have said it time without number, that RU is the only Afrobeat artiste that gives you value for your money. Stage performer 💯 No Naija Artiste comes close. Sounds like his studio work and even better.”
Another user, @xpensiveofhype, echoed Ruger’s key point:
“No one is your friend in the industry. Key word.”
Meanwhile, @iamfemikiti_rem noted:
“Not everyone is your friend in the industry 👂. Blown Boy Ru.”
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Industry Insight
Ruger’s commentary touches on a broader conversation within the Nigerian entertainment space, where alliances often shift with fame, influence, and commercial relevance. Despite Afrobeats enjoying global recognition, with stars like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido topping international charts, many young artists still find themselves navigating an ecosystem that can be emotionally isolating.
Industry experts say this lack of genuine support systems contributes to mental health challenges among artists, with some struggling behind the spotlight despite their public success.
Ruger’s reflections also draw attention to the importance of emotional intelligence and strong personal values in an environment driven largely by visibility and commercial viability.
While Ruger’s comments on the music industry may not come as a shock to veterans of the industry, they resonate strongly with up-and-coming artists and fans who often assume camaraderie among stars. His honesty, paired with a steady fan base and consistent musical output, continues to position him as one of Afrobeats’ most authentic voices.
