Words:Adedosu 'kenzy' Adekunle
Michael Stephens, popularly known as Ruggedman, is a graduate of Political Science from the Lagos State University, Ojo. In 1989, he started exploring music and in 1999, he produced his own songs and released two tracks. Since launching his music some years ago, the rapper has grown to become a top artiste in Nigeria. Apart from music, Ruggedman is into fashion and event hosting. In this exclusive interview, the rapper talked about some issues.
How have you been coping with the industry
It has been very hectic (for me) because I am working on my artiste (Mbryo), mine and my 20th Sept Wear clothing line projects. It has also been fun because I am a workaholic and I enjoy doing what I love.
What about rumoured affair with Maheeda, Halima and Monalisa
These happen because certain people can’t keep their noses out of my private life. So, they try to forcefully attach me to any female they see around or with me. Those are not scandals, (they are) just antics of attention/hit seeking bloggers. Maheeda modelled a top from my soon to be re-launched 20th Sept Wear clothing line. Super diva Monalisa did the same. Halima graced a birthday event held for me. So that is how I automatically started dating them ‘in certain bloggers’ eyes.’
Maybe they do this because you are yet to get married?
So, I should rush to get married for bloggers to stop attaching my name to women? (that is) very funny. God forbid I do because of such a reason. I will marry when i marry.
What is now your relationship with 9ice and Toni Payne
Next question please. People should let the matter rest.
Why have you not done any hit like in the past
I chilled out a bit from making music to concentrate on my record label and signed Mbryo. He is a singing sensation who produces and plays the guitar, drums and piano. I am working directly on his project to build a new brand that Nigeria will start feeling a lot really soon. I have also been manufacturing wears for my clothing line that will soon go on sale. (I have also been) promoting my ‘Agidi’ song featuring Wande Coal and it is getting heavy rotation on radio stations nationwide. I have already shot the video (Paul Gambit directed it) and it will soon be released.
Can you tell us how much you make from your clothing line
No, because I am about to go live with sales. But I can tell you I have spent millions producing snapbacks, varsity jackets, hoodys and T-shirts.
Do you intend joining politics in the future
No, I do not.
How was your first breakup experience like
I guess she shattered my heart. I wrote her a long letter and she replied on the back of the same paper, saying we can only be friends. I think I even still have the letter somewhere in my house.
would out take her back if she comes begging now
She is happily married now with kids (laughs). We were in secondary school then.
Describe your kind of woman
(She must have a) good sense of humour, respect, moral values and accepts what I do and vice versa.
What can't you do for money
Kill.
Would you accept N100million to give up your career for a houseboy job
I wouldn’t be a houseboy if I have N100million. I will hire someone else to do the job.
What turns you off
Lies, pretenders and body odour.
What have made you survive and remain relevant in a highly competitive industry
God, originality, creativity, guts and hard work.
Who is your favourite celebrity and why
2Face Idibia; he is a wonderfully blessed singer and his humility is amazing.
Do you support the idea of flaunting assets online
No, I do not. It’s not my nature.
Tell me one thing you can spend your last kobo to get?
If it is not a ticket to heaven, then there is nothing I will spend my last kobo to get. I have learnt not to attach too much sentimental value to material things.
What would you change in the entertainment industry if you were in government
I would create a proper body to protect the works of entertainers and make sure their royalties.
Who is the person you would want to meet, dead or alive? And what would you say to the person?
(I would love to meet) 2Pac because to me, he is the greatest rapper and Rihanna, because I am so crazy about her realness.
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