Afrobeats artist Michael Adebayo Olayinka, popularly known as Ruger, is opening up about the harsh realities of the Nigerian music industry, revealing that genuine friendships are rare.
In a candid interview with Stanley, Ruger shared that most relationships in the industry are transactional, with many individuals only maintaining connections for personal gain.
“One thing I wish I had known earlier is that no one is truly your friend in this industry,” Ruger said. “At best, you might have one or two genuine friends who truly want to see you succeed—people who stick by you through tough times and make sure you’re okay. That’s it, man.”
He cautioned fellow artists against getting too comfortable with attention or equating popularity with loyalty.
“Everything is business. Nobody really cares,” he added. “They hang around you because you have something to offer at that moment. But the moment that value fades, many of them will disappear.”
Ruger’s remarks shed light on the often unspoken realities behind the glamour of the music scene, reminding upcoming artists to stay grounded and focused.
