Buying Celebrities’ Music Is Not Enough – Ruggedman Warns Fans Against Pressure To Advocate For Social Change

Veteran Nigerian rapper and content creator Michael Stephens, popularly known as Ruggedman, has called on fans to stop putting pressure on celebrities to use their platforms to champion social causes on their behalf.

Ruggedman, during an interview with Punch, maintained that supporting celebrities by purchasing their music does not give fans the right to impose such expectations on public figures.

Ruggedman stressed that citizens should instead direct their demands to elected officials responsible for governance.

He said, “Of course, it is not right for fans to pressure celebrities to use their platforms for social change. You can ask them, but you can’t pressure them. I hear some people say, ‘we buy their music,’ and assume that’s reason enough for a celebrity to speak up.

“Music is a product you are buying. You get entertained by it; it’s a service. If that’s the case, why aren’t they pressuring restaurant owners or other service providers to do the same?

“The people they really need to pressure are their local government chairmen, governors, senators, and the president. These are public servants who owe them life-changing service. Fans can ask celebrities to lend their voices, but the people they have every right to demand accountability from are those in government.” 

The rapper further stated that he is unbothered by the criticism of his vocal style.

He stated, “I can’t tell people what to want. Wanting something is one thing, but whether they will get it is another. I have contributed a lot to the Nigerian music industry, especially the rap scene.

“I have faced criticism almost throughout my career, so I’m used to it. I have developed a thick skin, but that doesn’t mean I ignore constructive criticism.” 

Reflecting on the nature of public opinion, he added that many successful acts were once heavily criticised.

He added, “I have seen artistes get mocked early in their careers and later praised by the same people because they didn’t give up. Whatever you do, you will be criticised. But as long as you are doing something positive, don’t let criticism stop you.”