Nigerian alt-pop artiste Rukmani has released her latest single, “Not Nice,” a powerful collaboration with rap artiste Sgawd. The new track delves into the painful experience of emotional neglect and the liberating clarity that comes with choosing to walk away from a toxic relationship.
The song’s central theme is captured in its simple yet impactful hook: “You’re not nice, yeah.” It serves as a breaking point, a final declaration of independence after enduring a cycle of giving without receiving. Rukmani’s lyrics, such as, “You Dey quick to forget / Anything I do for you,” provide a raw look into the exhausting reality of emotional labour.
Sgawd’s verse adds a sharp, unflinching perspective. His lines, “If I stick around you go use me like doormat / You use bolt,” draw a stark comparison between being a doormat and a quick, temporary transaction, highlighting the casual disregard of intimacy. This is further emphasised by the modern act of self-preservation: “Said some mean shit had to block you off my contact list.” The song normalises the difficult decision to leave, even when feelings still remain.
Produced by NYRP, the track transforms the heartbreak of a breakup into a head-nodding anthem of empowerment. The beat makes walking away from a painful situation feel less like a loss and more like a victory lap.
“Not Nice” is now available on all major digital streaming platforms.
