Ruger opens up on jealousy and cliques in the music industry

 Nigerian recording/performing artist Michael Adebayo popularly known by his stage name, Ruger is opening up on what he feels is the major catalyst to failing relationships in the music industry.

According to the 24-year-old award-winning artist, jealousy breaks up so many friendships and generally affects the industry due to jealous individuals short-sighted nature that makes them afraid of seeing other acts doing better than them.

Ru also touched on the presumption that there are cliques in the music industry as well as why it is super important for brotherhood to exist in the entertainment industry.

"I feel like it all depends on the kind of people they are. For example, if I'm not the kind of person that is generally envious, then I can't be envious of my fellow artistes," started off the 'Red Flags' hitmaker while speaking during a recent episode of the Bahd And Boujee Podcast.

He went on to explain to the co-hosts Tolanibaj and Moet Abebe that the only way an artist would be jealous of seeing other people dominating airwaves, getting play and recognition is if deep down said person has always been green with envy.

The fast-rising Nigerian superstar emphasised that if it was not in one's nature to be jealous of others then the same will stick when it comes to their craft and the industry.

Speaking from his point of view, the 'Girlfriend' crooner noted that if someone came up or he saw an artist with potential then he would do his best to hold his/her hand, if help is asked from him because that is just who he is as a person.

Nigerian star Ruger when he arrived in Kenya for his performance in Meru
Image: Courtesy

"I'd push him to do good for himself and everything because no matter what stage I am in my life or in my music, whether I'm not really popping at that time or I'm popping, I'm still going to push him. It depends on the kind of person you are as an individual. There's no manual to it," said the 24-year-old artist.

His words can be backed up by him rooting for Kenya's Ruger wa Kayole who started dressing up like the artist and performing Ru's songs in shows due to their slight resemblance.

Netizens were worried Ruger might take legal action against the young man but the Nigerian stunned people by cheering on for Kenya's "Ruger" and encouraging him to get the bag.

There is also his support for upcoming Kenyan artist Stevo Simple Boy and his willingness to always give people their flowers.

As to the dynamics of the music industry, and the understanding that there are usually cliques, especially among the "elite" Ru noted he had no idea of all that as he mostly keeps to himself.

"There may be cliques in the industry but I don't really know. I'm a clique by myself. When artists from here meet each other outside the country, there's unity, because when we're out there, nobody can touch us, no one can misbehave. Everyone is supporting support each other and that's the thing," said Ruger.

BY  HANNIE PETRA