Afrobeats Star Ruger Reveals He Donated First Music Earnings to Church
Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Michael Adebayo Olayinka, popularly known as Ruger, has revealed that he donated his first earnings from music to his church, despite making millions within his first year in the industry.
In a recent interview with media personality VJ Adams, Ruger opened up about his early financial experiences in the music scene and how sudden wealth has influenced his life.
“My first earnings from music was ₦500,000 when I first came out. I remember I gave everything to the church. I didn’t use it,” he said. “The next payment was ₦1 million. I felt like I had arrived. I went on a shopping spree. More millions came in the space of one year.”
The “Asiwaju” hitmaker acknowledged that wealth brought changes to his lifestyle and outlook. “Money changed me in some ways. Money changes everybody. No one can say money didn’t change them,” Ruger stated. “When you make more money, a lot of things change — the way you address issues, the way you approach things is different. Some people don’t stress when they have a lot of money.”
The singer, who has quickly risen to fame with chart-topping singles and a distinct sound, shared his aspirations for a future marked by even greater success and peace of mind.
“I want to get to a point where I no longer stress myself over anything,” he said. “Look at Jay-Z, for instance. He doesn’t respond when people insult him, knowing he is very successful. I’m looking forward to that level of success.”
Ruger has become a standout figure in Nigeria’s thriving Afrobeats scene, known not only for his music but also for his bold persona and signature eyepatch.