They Said I Was Finished!” – Ruger Breaks Silence On Leaving Jonzing World

Popular Nigerian singer Michael Olayinka, widely known as Ruger, has claimed that he faced serious industry backlash after parting ways with his former record label, Jonzing World.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Speaking on a recent episode of the Afrobeats Intelligence podcast, Ruger shared that many believed his career had ended the moment he left the label. According to him, even some fellow artists distanced themselves, while fans turned their backs on him.

“There were so many negative comments,” Ruger said. “People said things like, ‘This is your last tour,’ ‘You’re done,’ ‘It’s over for you.’ A lot of people weren’t willing to help because of the general perception in Nigeria that once you leave a label, you’re ungrateful. And no one wants to be associated with that.”

He admitted the period was tough, describing it as emotionally draining. “I was battling cancel culture,” Ruger said. “I had to reintroduce myself to people. I started many things from scratch. It was like rebuilding everything. It’s not easy leaving a label — you have to create your own structure.”

Despite the challenges, Ruger said his inner strength carried him through. “I was down, but I didn’t give up. I stayed strong and eventually triumphed.”