“No One Is Your Friend Here” — Ruger Opens Up About the Loneliness Behind the Fame in Nigeria’s Music Industry

Rising Afrobeats sensation Michael Adebayo Olayinka, popularly known as Ruger, has built a name for himself with chart-topping hits and a distinctive eye-patch look that sets him apart on stage. But behind the glitz and glamour of Nigeria’s booming music industry, the singer is opening up about an uncomfortable truth: genuine friendship is a rare commodity in the business.

Speaking in a recent episode of The Stanley Agu Show, Ruger pulled back the curtain on what many up-and-coming artists and fans often overlook — the emotional isolation and transactional nature of relationships within the entertainment world.

 “One thing I wished I had known earlier is that no one is your friend in the industry,” he said bluntly. “The most you can have is maybe two genuine friends that stand by you, want to see you grow, and even when things are bad, they are with you and making sure that you are good.”

The artist, who broke into the mainstream under Jonzing World (an affiliate of Don Jazzy’s Mavin Records), has enjoyed considerable success in a relatively short time. His singles, such as Dior, Bounce, and Asiwaju

 But that success, Ruger admits, comes with a cost, often paid in trust.

“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.”

While Ruger’s comments might come as a surprise to fans dazzled by the perceived camaraderie and collaborations in the Nigerian music space, his sentiments echo a growing concern among creatives who find themselves caught between artistry and survival.

In recent years, other artists such as Burna Boy, Tems, and Omah Lay have hinted at similar struggles, from feeling misunderstood to navigating the complexities of fame and loyalty. Ruger’s honest take adds another layer to the conversation, shedding light on the emotional reality of fame in an industry that often values relevance over relationships.

“Just know that everything is business,” Ruger emphasised. “Remember, the most friends you can have in the industry might be two or one, or none”.

In an industry driven by visibility, money, and influence, Ruger’s reflections serve as a sobering reminder that behind every viral hit and award show smile, many artists are still learning who’s truly standing with them when the spotlight dims.