Rising Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Ruger has revealed that his path to stardom began in the unexpected setting of a church choir, crediting those formative experiences with developing the vocal prowess that would later captivate global audiences. The hitmaker behind tracks like “Bounce” and “Dior” made these revelations during a candid conversation on Apple Music’s Africa Now, offering fans rare insight into the spiritual foundations of his artistic development.
“Only people who have experienced me perform live have had the opportunity to enjoy my vocals. Even in my music, I don’t necessarily show it off,” Ruger explained during the interview, suggesting that his recorded tracks only showcase a fraction of his vocal capabilities. “My favourite time being Ruger is when I’m performing on stage because I get to do whatever I like with my songs. I started from the choir. I know how to sing, especially when it is a song that resonates deeply with me.”
The confession highlights an interesting dichotomy in the artist’s career – while known for his infectious melodies and distinctive sound in the competitive Afrobeats landscape, Ruger has apparently been holding back vocally on his studio recordings. This revelation may surprise fans who primarily know him through his chart-topping singles, where his production-heavy style often emphasizes rhythm and catchy hooks over traditional vocal showcases.
Music industry analyst Emmanuel Okonkwo sees this as a strategic artistic choice rather than a limitation. Many contemporary Afrobeats artists are trained vocalists who deliberately choose stylistic approaches that prioritize vibe and feeling over technical vocal displays,” Okonkwo explains. What Ruger is describing is actually quite common – saving the full vocal capabilities for live performances where audience energy can elevate the experience.”
Born Michael Adebayo Olayinka, Ruger burst onto Nigeria’s music scene in 2021 after signing with D’Prince’s Jonzing World record label, a subsidiary of Don Jazzy’s Mavin Records. His distinctive eye patch and energetic performances quickly set him apart in the crowded Afrobeats genre, with hits like “Bounce” establishing him as one of the industry’s most promising newcomers.
The revelation about his church background adds new context to Ruger’s artistic journey. In Nigeria, church choirs have historically served as informal music academies, producing numerous mainstream artists who first developed their talents in religious settings. From gospel-influenced stars like Sinach to secular powerhouses like Wizkid and Tiwa Savage, the transition from church to commercial music represents a well-trodden path in Nigerian entertainment.
Music historian Dr. Foluke Adebajo notes that this pattern reflects broader cultural dynamics. The church has always been a safe space for musical experimentation and development in Nigeria. Many parents who might discourage music as a career path will happily support their children singing in church choirs, unknowingly providing the foundation for future professional careers.
For Ruger, this trajectory appears to have equipped him with technical skills that transcend the often producer-driven Afrobeats genre. While studio recordings favor his melodic sensibilities and dance-ready beats, his live performances reportedly showcase vocal techniques rarely heard in his released tracks.
Concert-goers have frequently commented on this aspect of his artistry. Lagos-based music journalist Tolu Adegoke, who attended Ruger’s last major concert, confirms this dual artistic identity: “What you hear on streaming platforms is only half the story. Live, Ruger transforms his songs with impressive vocal runs and improvisations that reveal his choral training. It’s almost like getting two artists in one.”
This revelation from Ruger also speaks to a growing trend of artistic authenticity in Nigeria’s evolving music industry. As global attention on Afrobeats intensifies, many artists are becoming more forthcoming about their origins and influences, often proudly acknowledging the cultural and religious contexts that shaped them.
Cultural critic Chidimma Nwosu points out that this represents a maturing of the industry. There was a time when Nigerian artists tried to emulate Western stars completely, hiding any ‘local’ influences. Now, there’s pride in these backgrounds. Whether it’s church choirs, street rap battles, or traditional music exposure, these formative experiences are being recognized as valuable rather than embarrassing.”
For listeners, Ruger’s comments serve as an invitation to experience his music in multiple contexts. While streaming platforms offer accessibility, his emphasis on live performances suggests that fans should seek out concert footage or in-person shows to fully appreciate the depth of his musical ability.
Fellow musicians have also responded positively to Ruger’s transparency. Producer and songwriter Korede Ajayi notes, “It takes confidence to admit you’re holding back on records. Most artists want to convince fans they’re giving everything on every track. Ruger admitting he saves something special for live shows is both honest and intriguing.”
As Ruger continues his ascent in the competitive Nigerian music industry, this glimpse into his musical foundation provides valuable context for understanding his artistic choices. The church choir – with its emphasis on harmony, vocal control, and emotional delivery – clearly shaped not just his technical ability but his approach to performance.
For emerging artists, Ruger’s journey offers an important reminder that musical training can come in many forms. While formal education has its place, the communal learning environment of church choirs, with their emphasis on feeling and spiritual connection, continues to produce some of Nigeria’s most compelling performers.
As Afrobeats continues its global expansion, stars like Ruger represent a new generation of artists who bring depth and technique to a genre sometimes criticized for prioritizing production over vocal ability. His willingness to acknowledge these roots suggests an artist comfortable with the full spectrum of his musical identity – from spiritual beginnings to secular success, from technical prowess to commercial appeal.
