Ruggedman has long been a cornerstone of Nigerian hip-hop known for his sharp lyricism and fearless social commentary since the early 2000s.
Now, the veteran rapper and activist born Michael Ugochukwu Stephens is offering a fresh look at his legacy with the release of Best of Ruggedman Acoustic Session Vol. 1.
This five-track EP strips his most resonant songs down to their emotional and musical core. The EP reimagines classics like “Ruggedy Baba,” “Change,” “Baraje,” “One Man,” and “Won’t Battle”. These songs, which once featured heavy beats, now breathe with acoustic warmth and intimate arrangements.
Produced and featuring guitar work by Fiokee, the acoustic reworking removes the “armour of heavy production,” allowing Ruggedman’s voice and words to take center stage. This approach reveals new layers of vulnerability and timeless relevance in the music. The EP invites both longtime fans and new audiences to hear Ruggedman not just as a rapper, but as a storyteller, philosopher, and witness to Nigeria’s evolving social landscape.
‘Best of Ruggedman Acoustic Session Vol. 1’ is out now on all platforms.
