Veteran Nigerian rapper Michael Ugochukwu Stephens, popularly known as Ruggedman, has emphasized that music should go beyond superficial topics like money, women, sex, and drugs, especially in a country like Nigeria where artists have a powerful platform.
Speaking in a recent interview with Sunday Scoop, Ruggedman reiterated his belief that music is a tool for education, awareness, and change.
“There is more to music than talking about money, women, sex and drugs. From the start, I have always known music to be a way of spreading information, so that can’t change with me,” he said.
He encouraged Nigerian artists to take cues from the current state of the country and use their voices to inspire thought and action.
“The situation in Nigeria is more than enough to fuel any creative choice to speak through music,” he added.
The rapper also addressed the criticism some celebrities faced for not publicly supporting the release of controversial social media personality VeryDarkMan. According to Ruggedman, public advocacy is a personal decision, and individuals should not be forced into taking a stance.
The Opomulero crooner further spoke about his early interest in acting, revealing that his involvement in movies began in the late 1990s, when he played minor roles in films by the late Francis Agu.
“My going into movies didn’t start today. I featured as an extra (waka pass) in a few movies in the late 1990s. I love movies and have always wanted to act and produce movies or TV series,” he shared.
When asked about how he handles criticism as he transitions into acting, Ruggedman said he’s open to feedback and uses it to grow.
“As a serious critic myself, I am open to and take criticism well because it’s one of the ways you learn and improve. I definitely love the praises too because it means one is doing well.”
Back in February, the 51-year-old rapper opened up about his personal life, explaining why he’s not married or a father. He revealed that he made a vow not to have children outside of wedlock and is still holding on to that decision. As for marriage, Ruggedman said he’s still waiting for the right person.
Whether in music, film, or personal principles, Ruggedman continues to stand out as an artist who values purpose, integrity, and growth.
