Social media has killed musicians’ mystique – Rudeboy

Nigerian renowned singer, Paul Okoye, popularly known as Rudeboy, says social media has eroded the mystique surrounding musicians, reducing the excitement fans once felt when seeing their favourite stars.

Speaking to Lun Lifestyle TV, the former P-Square member said constant online exposure had made artistes too accessible, diminishing their appeal.

“The reason you don't see people faint for artistes anymore is because they see them on TikTok every day dancing and promoting your music,” he said.

He argued that social media has also affected the value of music videos, describing their production as a potential waste of money in today's digital era.

“Music videos somehow now, because of this generation, is a waste of money,” he said.

While acknowledging social media's benefits, Rudeboy said excessive exposure had created “see-finish”, with fans gaining access to details of artistes' private lives.

He recalled a time when musicians enjoyed greater privacy, contrasting the restricted VIP sections they occupied at nightclubs with today's culture of constant filming.

“Unfortunately, it's too late for us to bring back the era of artistes being mystiques,” he said, questioning the pressure on musicians to post content daily.

Rudeboy rose to fame alongside his twin brother, Peter Okoye, as part of P-Square, one of Africa's most successful music duos.