Michael Stephens, stage nameRuggedman, born on September 20 (year unidentified) in Ohafia, Abia State, is aNigerian rapper.[1]

A graduate of political science from Lagos State University, Ọ̀jọ́,[1] Ruggedman started exploring music in 1999. He produced his own songs and released two tracks in 1999, both which were well-played on radio. Ruggedman launched himself into the music industry in 1999, eventually becoming the most featured rapper in Nigeria. His albums are all released on his personal label, Rugged Records. Ruggedman has performed worldwide alongside international acts like KC & Jojo, Guru, Sean Paul, Wyclef Jean, Akon, Wayne Wonder, Ja Rule, Kevin Little, Maxie Priest, Kanye West, LL Cool J, T-Pain, Nas, and Nelly. He has also worked with and featured many Nigerian and international artists on his albums, including Tuface Idibia, P-Square, 9ice, Flavour N’abania, Josh (from The Tatu Clan of Congo), M.I,Ice Prince, JJC Skillz, Jamaican Stylo G,Niyola, George Nathaniel, Gerelyn,Morell,Da Grin, Chinaydu, Terry G, Mbryo, Funbi,Reminisce and Wande Coal.

Ruggedman’s record label, Rugged Records, signed its first act, singer MBRYO, in September 2012.[1] MBRYO was featured on Ruggedman’s “Ruggedy Baba pt 2,″ produced by Blaize Beatz. Money Making Music, Ruggedman’s 2012 album, is a collaboration with MBRYO as part of a promotion for the new artist,[1] with guest appearances by Terry G and Funbi.

Ruggedman has hosted the prestigious NB Plc sponsored Star Quest Reality TV Talent Show in 2009, 2010, and 2011http://thenet.ng/2011/03/ruggedman-to-host-star-quest-again/

Anchored the MTN Project Fame Official Press Media Launch in 2008 and 2009.

Ruggedman also owns a clothing line called “20th Sept” Wear, named after his birthday.

Ruggedman was recently made a United Nations Peace Ambassadorhttp://www.thisdaylive.com/articles/ruggedman-becomes-international-peace-ambassador/183926/

AWARDS

In 2003 (FAME Awards), Ruggedman won Best New Artist, 2003 Award For Musical Excellence (AMEN AWARDS)  

1. Best New Artist  

2. Best Solo Performance

3. Best Rap Video, and

4. Artist of the year.

2004

Nigerian Entertainment Awards

– Best Solo Performance.

AMEN Awards

– Best Solo Performance.

2005

KORA All African Awards Nominee

– Best Male Artist West Africa

2006

NIGERIA MUSIC AWARD

– Hip Hop Artist of the year held in London.

2008

Hip Hop World Awards

– Best rap album

Nigerian Music Award

– Best Rap Artist

Nigeria Music Video Award winner

– Best Indigenous Video concept.

2009

KORA All Africa Music Award

Best Hip Hop Act (Nominated)

University of Ibadan Award

– Nigerian Rap King

(Ruggedman is the 1st Nigerian artist to get an award named after him)

2011

Nigerian Entertainment Awards

– Best Rap Album (Nominee)

New York

2012

Nigerian Music Video Awards

-Best Mainstream Hip Video (Nominee)

2013

Nigerian Entertainment Awards New York

-Best Rap Act Of The Year (Nominee)