7th February, 2024
By Taiwo Okanlawon
Nigerian Dancehall sensation Michael Adebayo Olayinka popularly known as Ruger, has revealed why he parted ways with Jonzing World, a label owned by D’Prince.
The ‘Asiwaju’ hitmaker had announced his new record label named ‘Blown Boy Entertainment’ in January. He also adjusted his profile names on social media to reflect the new label.
Taking to his official Instagram page on Tuesday, February 6, the singer expressed gratitude to his former label boss, Dprince, for his belief in him and their journey together thus far.
Despite the regrettable circumstances surrounding his departure, Ruger affirmed his determination to take a significant leap forward in his career this year.
As he prepares to launch his own record label, Blown Boyent, Ruger sought divine strength to navigate this new chapter in his musical journey.
In his words: “Thank you Jonzing world and Dprince for believing in me and taking me this far. Wouldn’t have gotten here without you. Sadly, I have to leave but God knows best. I am taking a big bet on myself this year. I don’t know it all but I know God will see me through. It is time for @blownboyent.”
In 2021, Ruger rose to stardom under Jonzing World, a label owned by Nigerian singer D’Prince, which is an affiliate of Don Jazzy’s Mavin Records.
Ruger has won several awards for his craft. In same 2021, he won the AFRIMA best newcomer award, and also the best new artiste category at the 2023 Soundcity MVP Awards.
Ruger has also swept some of the major awards, including the Best New act in Africa at the 2022 prestigious Afrima awards.
He also has two extended plays (EPs) to his name titled ‘Pandemic’ (2021) and ‘Second Wave’ (2022).
On 16 November 2022, Ruger returns with a new chest-thumping tune capsule, consisting of two songs titled ‘Red Flags’ & Asiwaju, which upon release trended on every social media platforms.
Asiwaju peaked at number 1 on Nigeria’s Apple Music Top Songs chart and spent a record-breaking one month in the history of the chart.
Last September, he came through with his debut album, ‘RU The World’.