Nigerian singer Michael Adebayo Olayinka, popularly known as Ruger, has opened up about his early exposure to music and partying, revealing that he began sneaking out to parties as early as age 9.
The “Bounce” crooner made the revelation during a recent appearance on the Afrobeats Intelligence podcast hosted by Joey Akan.
“I was sneaking out to go to parties to listen to Afrobeats and Dancehall. I was not up to 10 years old then but knew how to dance. So I would just go to parties and shake my body,” Ruger recounted.
Early Start, Rapid Rise
Ruger rose to stardom in 2021 with his breakout hit “Bounce,” which earned him a record deal with Jonzing World, an affiliate of Mavin Records. Later that year, he dropped his debut EP, “Pandemic,” which further solidified his place in Nigeria’s music industry.
In 2024, Ruger parted ways with Jonzing World following a reported fallout with his label boss D’Prince, and launched his own independent label, Blown Boy Entertainment.
From Street Parties to Stardom
Ruger’s confession highlights his deep-rooted passion for music and dance, even as a child. His early interest in Afrobeats and Dancehall helped shape the energetic performance style he’s now known for.
With Blown Boy Entertainment now his own platform, Ruger is forging a new path in the industry—one that began with secret childhood parties and is now playing out on the global Afrobeats stage.
