Nigerian music icon Rudeboy, formerly one half of the legendary duo P-Square, recently made a bold statement that has sparked conversations across the African music scene.
In a candid interview, Rudeboy reflected on his and his brother’s musical journey, asserting that they created some of the most valuable and timeless songs in Africa.
His comments come amidst a discussion on the current state of the music industry and the quality of contemporary music.
Rudeboy, born Paul Okoye, along with his twin brother Peter Okoye, known as Mr. P, formed the iconic duo P-Square.
The brothers were known for their catchy tunes, electrifying performances, and groundbreaking music videos that set new standards in the African music industry.
Their hits, such as “Do Me,” “No One Like You,” “Chop My Money,” and “Personally,” dominated the airwaves from the mid-2000s to the early 2010s.
Reflecting on their illustrious career, Rudeboy emphasized the enduring nature of their music.
“Even today, songs we did in 2005, 2008, and 2012 are still hits and seem like they won’t even fade in the next 100 years to come,” he stated.
This statement underscores the lasting impact and wide appeal of P-Square’s discography, which continues to resonate with fans across generations.
Rudeboy’s comments also included a critique of the current generation of artists and the nature of modern music.
“It’s not like I am discrediting this generation of artists,” he clarified, “but the truth is that 85% of music in this generation is not timeless.”
According to Rudeboy, many contemporary songs lack the depth and staying power that characterized earlier hits.
He pointed out that some songs quickly fade away, failing to remain relevant even a few months after their release.
One of Rudeboy’s key criticisms is the content of today’s music.
“People sing songs that you can’t even listen to together with your kids,” he noted.
This highlights a concern that modern music often contains themes and language that may not be suitable for all audiences, potentially limiting its longevity and cross-generational appeal.
Rudeboy’s reflections bring to light the importance of creating music that can stand the test of time.
He believes that the ability to produce songs that remain popular and relevant for decades is a hallmark of true artistry.
“I and my brother sang some of the most valuable songs in Africa,” he asserted, underscoring their contributions to the cultural and musical landscape of the continent.
P-Square’s music not only entertained but also often conveyed meaningful messages and showcased their versatility as artists.
Their ability to blend different genres, from Afrobeat to R&B and pop, allowed them to reach a broad audience and maintain their status as musical trailblazers.
Rudeboy’s critique can be seen as a call to action for contemporary artists to focus on creating high-quality, timeless music.
By prioritizing lyrical content, musical composition, and universal themes, today’s musicians can aspire to leave a lasting legacy similar to that of P-Square.
While the music industry continues to evolve, with new sounds and trends emerging, Rudeboy’s insights serve as a reminder of the enduring value of timeless music.
As fans and artists reflect on his words, there is an opportunity to celebrate the rich musical heritage of Africa and strive for excellence in the years to come.
Rudeboy’s assertion that he and his brother sang the best songs in Africa is a testament to their significant impact on the music industry.
Their legacy of hits continues to inspire and entertain, proving the enduring power of well-crafted music.
As the debate about contemporary music quality continues, Rudeboy’s reflections offer valuable insights into the importance of creating songs that can stand the test of time and be enjoyed by generations to come.
