Afrobeats singer Michael Adebayo Olayinka, better known by his stage name Ruger, has recently expressed his discontent with the current state of the music industry.

The singer has taken to social media to articulate his concerns about the disproportionate influence of promotional budgets over genuine talent, revealing a growing dissatisfaction with how success is often dictated by financial resources rather than artistic merit.

 Ruger shared how he feels that numerous artists, despite lacking the necessary skills or creativity, have managed to gain significant attention and popularity solely due to extensive marketing campaigns.

According to him, the industry seems to prioritize promotion over talent, where an artist’s success is increasingly tied to the amount of money put into advertising and social media buzz.

This troubling trend, he asserts, detracts from the true essence of music and artistry, leaving audiences with a plethora of underwhelming music that lacks substance.

“This situation has been deeply frustrating for me,” Ruger stated, highlighting his commitment to authentic artistic expression.

He has firmly positioned himself against what he perceives as a superficial landscape where financial clout can easily overshadow raw talent.

The singer’s sentiments resonate with many passionate music lovers who yearn for artistry that is genuine and skilful.

An additional point of contention for Ruger is the prevalent use of autotune, particularly during live performances.

He argues that excessive reliance on autotune not only dilutes an artist’s true vocal capabilities but also compromises the integrity and authenticity of live music experiences.

Ruger emphasized the importance of showcasing raw talent, challenging his fellow musicians to step away from technology and instead embrace their natural abilities.

Through his post on X, Ruger made a poignant appeal to fellow artists and sound engineers, urging them to reconsider their approach when it comes to live performances.

 “Next time, tell your engineer to shut it down when you’re about to speak coz you be speaking in Tunez wahalaaaaaa,” he remarked.

His playful yet serious tone underscores the need for musicians to connect with their audience more authentically, free from the constraints of artificial sound modifications.

Ruger’s assertion that he does not depend on autotune is a testament to his confidence in his vocal abilities.

He is unafraid to present himself as he truly is, showcasing his musical talent without resorting to technological enhancement.

“Well, Ruger don’t need that shit. Thank you,” he concluded, reinforcing his commitment to authentic artistry in a world increasingly obsessed with image and hype.

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 The frustrations expressed by Ruger are not isolated; they reflect a larger conversation within the music community regarding the value of talent versus the influence of marketing.

Many artists and industry insiders share similar sentiments, advocating for a return to an era where passion, substance, and skill define an artist’s capabilities, rather than financial prowess.

As Afrobeats continues to gain worldwide recognition, Ruger’s comments invite a critical re-evaluation of what it truly means to be a successful artist in today’s landscape.

He is not merely casting aspersions on those who have found success through less conventional means; rather, he is advocating for a music culture that upholds artistic sincerity and celebrates those who pour their heart and soul into their craft.

In an age where the lines between talent and marketing are increasingly blurred, Ruger stands as a champion for artists who remain dedicated to genuine musical expression.

His call for authenticity amidst an industry rife with commercialism serves as a reminder to both creators and consumers alike: music should move people’s hearts and minds not just their wallets.

As Ruger’s career continues to blossom, fans and fellow artists alike will undoubtedly keep a close eye on his journey, hoping that his stand for authenticity inspires a broader movement within the industry that values true talent over mere promotion.