Veteran Nigerian rapper, Michael Stephens, well known by his stage name Ruggedman, has claimed responsibility for the development of Nigerian music.
He claimed that by releasing a contentious hit song, he significantly contributed to the industry’s current state.
Ruggedman stated in an interview that one of the key decisions that helped establish the Nigerian sound early in his career was to concentrate on creating original music.
The Hip Hop star said;
“I played a significant role in the evolution of the Nigerian music industry. After I released the song that has been tagged one of the most controversial songs out of Nigeria, I sat up and concentrated on making original music.
“That is one of the major moves that led us to where we are today. Anyone who listens to my recently released Extended Play album titled, Michael Stephens Experiment, will hear how my music has evolved.”
On why he featured Jesse Jagz, Eva Alordiah, Mista Styles (formerly Freestyle) and Uzikwendu on one of the tracks on the EP titled, OG’, Ruggedman said;
“I wanted a track that would show the world that some of the super talented rappers to ever do it can still do it, no matter how much music has changed. The beat was produced by a Gen Z producer— Blvck Sauce.
I sent it to them (featured artistes) and they all recorded their verses and sent it back to me. Music style is temporary, but talent and class are permanent. That is what that song emphasises.”
