Born as Oluwaseun Shola-Akinwale and known on stage as Papi Rugio, this Ibadan-based creative has quietly but confidently shaped his path in the music industry. A hiphop artist, audio-visual producer, and creative director, Rugio embodies the new generation of multi-skilled African talents who are building careers through authenticity and grit.
His story begins with a simple love for music. “I started making music in secondary school using Virtual DJ to record freestyles over popular songs,” he shared in a recent interview with TrenderHQ. “I would share them with friends just for fun. That evolved into recording my first studio record at 18.” Since then, Rugio has released five independent projects, each building his reputation as a boundary-pushing artist.
Fuelled by purpose, not just ambition
Beyond the rhythms and rhymes, Rugio is deeply driven by a sense of purpose. “Creating keeps me sane and alive,” he says. It is this clarity that continues to guide his journey, from his early experiments in beat-making to his work as a producer and mentor.
Two milestones stand out in his career. First, hearing one of his songs featured in a movie, and second, graduating from the Music Business Academy program. “Those were confirmation moments,” he says. “They made me feel like I’m truly on the right path.”
Independent and unstoppable
Of all his achievements so far, releasing Rhythm and Bars, a 10-track project he wrote, produced and engineered himself, holds a special place in his heart. “That made me feel unstoppable,” he recalls. The project was more than a musical release. It was a statement of ownership and capability.
A sound shaped by experience
When it comes to his creative process, Rugio leans heavily on lived experience. “I like to create art from my personal life and the stories of those around me. That shapes both my sound and direction,” he explains. Often beginning with just a metronome, he builds from raw feeling into full-bodied soundscapes.
His sonic signature is rooted in hiphop, but infused with afrobeat and electronic dance elements. This hybrid sound allows him to bridge cultures and connect with a wide range of audiences.
A collaborator with gratitude
While he has worked with many individuals in different creative capacities, Rugio prefers to highlight the collective. “I’ve worked with a lot of people on this journey. It would be too much to list, but I truly appreciate everyone who has contributed to my sound and growth,” he says. “It’s been an exhilarating journey so far.”
Mission before spotlight
What sets Papi Rugio apart is his intention. He sees himself not just as an entertainer but as a builder of meaning through music. “My ability to craft narratives, create soundscapes, and build universes with sound makes me a force to reckon with,” he notes.
Influenced by the likes of Mac Miller, Kid Cudi, Olamide and M.I, Rugio balances introspection with cultural commentary. His music is both personal and purposeful. “I want to inspire a new generation of talents to believe in what’s possible. I also want to use my music as a weapon of change to positively influence society,” he says.
Softboy and what lies ahead
Currently, Rugio is gearing up to release his new EP titled Softboy on August 5. He describes it as another step in his journey to express vulnerability, creativity and power through music.
Looking ahead, he envisions building a larger catalogue, mentoring other talents, and creating art that stands the test of time. “The goal is to build catalogue, develop talents, and create iconic art,” he affirms.
His advice for newcomers in the industry is simple but potent. “Stay hungry. Stay consistent.”
A creative to watch
Papi Rugio may be soft-spoken, but his vision is loud and clear. Whether through beats, lyrics or visuals, he is building a legacy that speaks not just of sound, but of soul.
Follow his journey on Instagram: @Papi_Rugio
Photographer credit: @brethrenjpg
