In a candid revelation, Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Michael Adebayo Olayinka, better known as Ruger, has exposed the harsh realities of friendships in the music industry. According to him, genuine friendships are scarce, with most relationships being driven by business interests. Ruger’s comments shed light on the often-cutthroat nature of the industry, where loyalty and support can be fleeting.
Speaking on a recent episode of The Stanley Agu Show, Ruger shared his thoughts on the matter, stating that even the most successful artists can only expect to have a maximum of two genuine friends in the industry. He emphasized that these friendships are rare and often stand the test of time, with these individuals remaining loyal and supportive even during difficult periods. Ruger’s words paint a picture of an industry where artists are often surrounded by people who are more interested in what they can offer than in fostering meaningful relationships.
Ruger’s comments are a sobering reminder that the music industry is, above all, a business. He noted that people are drawn to artists because of what they can offer at a particular time, and that this can change rapidly. As he put it, “Everything is business. Nobody cares. Just know that everything is business. They are moving around with you because you can offer at that time. The moment you might not be able to offer anything, a lot of people will switch.” This stark reality highlights the importance of being cautious and discerning when forming relationships in the industry.
Ruger’s experiences and insights serve as a warning to aspiring artists and a reminder to established ones. His words underscore the importance of being aware of the potential pitfalls of the industry and the need to cultivate genuine relationships that can withstand the challenges and pressures of the music world. As the Nigerian music industry continues to grow and evolve, Ruger’s comments offer a timely and thought-provoking perspective on the complexities of friendships and relationships within it.
