Veteran Nigerian rapper and humanitarian, Michael Ugochukwu Stephens, popularly known as Ruggedman, has predicted that the global “Afrobeats” tag for modern Nigerian music may soon lose its dominance.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Rubbin’ Minds, Ruggedman said he believes the era of defining Nigeria’s contemporary sound under the Afrobeats label is nearing its end.
“I just have a feeling that this whole Afrobeats thing, the tag, might end soon. Nigerian music is at the forefront now, and I’m happy it is Nigerian music,” he said.
While applauding the global reach of Nigerian artists, the rapper expressed concern about what he described as a drop in the quality of music being produced today.
“The only change I don’t fancy much is the quality of the music. Not too many of them are giving me what I really respect,” he added.
Ruggedman drew a clear distinction between Afrobeat, pioneered by the legendary Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, and Afrobeats, the modern pop-infused sound dominating global charts. He argued that it was inaccurate to lump icons like Fela, King Sunny Ade, and Kwam 1 under the Afrobeats label, insisting they should simply be recognised as purveyors of “Nigerian music.”
He also lamented the decline of rap in Nigeria’s mainstream music scene, attributing it to artists’ preference for quicker financial gains.
“Unfortunately, rap has taken a backseat because people want to do something that gives them money quickly. It costs more to promote rap than Afrobeats,” he explained.
Ruggedman further criticised Nigeria’s heavy reliance on foreign distribution platforms and the industry’s obsession with international validation, calling for greater independence and local infrastructure to support artists.
The rapper revealed that he recently released acoustic versions of five of his classic songs, Ruggedy Baba, Baraje, Change, Won’t Battle, and One Man, featuring renowned guitarist Fiokee.
“This is the first time a Nigerian rapper has done an acoustic version, just guitar and rap. It allows listeners to hear the lyrics and feel the soul behind the words,” he said.
Looking ahead, Ruggedman announced upcoming collaborations for 2026 with Odumodublvck, Jeriq, Magnito, 2Baba, and others, reaffirming his commitment to advancing Nigerian hip-hop and preserving its authenticity amid changing trends.
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