Rudeboy Says New Generation Afrobeats “Doesn’t Make Sense” to Him

Veteran singer says he has no plans to copy the new wave of Nigerian artists, insisting he will remain true to his own sound.

Veteran Nigerian singer Paul Okoye, popularly known as Rudeboy, has sparked conversation after revealing that he cannot relate to the style of music being made by many of today’s new-generation Afrobeats artists.

Speaking during an interview on Wazobia FM, the former P-Square star said he has no interest in changing his sound to follow current trends because, in his opinion, much of the new music “doesn’t make sense.”

Rudeboy Explains Why He Won’t Follow Music Trends

During the interview, Rudeboy said trying to imitate younger artists would do more harm than good to his career.

Speaking in Pidgin English, the singer explained that after spending years building a successful career and creating a catalogue of hit records, he cannot force himself to record songs he doesn’t genuinely understand or connect with.

According to him, making music purely to fit into today’s trends would amount to damaging himself mentally, emotionally, and professionally.

He also noted that if he attempted to create songs in the same style as some of the newer artists, he would not even feel confident enough to release them to the public because they do not reflect the type of music he believes in.

Veteran Singer Stands by His Signature Sound

Rudeboy’s comments come at a time when the Nigerian music industry is undergoing a major transformation.

A new generation of artists has introduced fresh sounds, experimental production styles, and unconventional songwriting approaches that continue to reshape Afrobeats. While many fans have embraced these evolving sounds, others have questioned whether some modern records prioritize trends over lyrical depth.

Rather than adapting to every new musical direction, Rudeboy says he prefers to remain authentic and continue making the style of music that built his reputation over the years.

Nigerian Music Continues to Evolve

The rise of independent musicians, regional music movements, and digital streaming platforms has created one of the most diverse eras in Nigerian music.

Listeners now have access to a wider variety of sounds than ever before, ranging from mainstream Afrobeats to alternative, street-pop, Afro-fusion, and experimental genres.

This diversity has naturally divided opinion among fans and artists alike. While younger audiences often embrace newer styles, some established musicians believe today’s music differs significantly from the songwriting and melodies that defined earlier generations.

Rudeboy’s remarks add to the ongoing debate about how Nigerian music is evolving and whether commercial success should influence an artist’s creative direction.

Rudeboy Releases New Song With Sarkodie

Although he has ruled out following current music trends, Rudeboy made it clear that he remains active in the industry.

On July 24, the veteran singer released “Blessed & Alive,” a collaboration with Ghanaian rap superstar Sarkodie.

The mid-tempo record reflects on Rudeboy’s journey, success, and longevity in the music industry while staying true to the melodic style that has defined many of his biggest hits throughout his career.

The release serves as another reminder that the singer intends to build on his legacy by staying authentic rather than reinventing himself to match changing trends.