Fortune Muruako Emelogu, popularly known by his stage name Ruffcoin Nwa Aba, is a Nigerian recording and performing artist renowned for his vibrant contributions to Afrobeat, Afropop, African Traditional Music, and Hip Hop. With deep roots in Abia State, Ruffcoin has become a prominent figure in the Nigerian music industry, widely celebrated for his hit song “Nwa Aba” released in 2007. He has earned the title “Enyi Number One” across the eastern region of Nigeria, reflecting his strong connection with his fans and his influence throughout the East. His music fuses modern sounds with cultural pride, making him not only a household name in Nigerian music but also a voice of empowerment and resilience. Ruffcoin continues to stay relevant by blending traditional Nigerian elements with contemporary rhythms, consistently resonating with his fanbase both at home and abroad.
As a result of his significant impact on the music industry, Ruffcoin has been nominated for THE LIST AWARDS 2024, which celebrates exceptional artistry and influence in the entertainment sector.
Biography
Notable Albums
Ruffcoin’s breakthrough came in 2007 with the release of the iconic single “Nwa Aba,” which became an anthem of pride for the city of Aba. The song’s success reinforced his image as a cultural figure and positioned him as a champion of Nigerian identity. Since then, Ruffcoin has released numerous hits that reflect his love for his roots and his ability to appeal to both local and international audiences.
Music Career & Achievements
- Diamond in the Ruff, 2013: Released under Big A Entertainment, Ruffcoin’s first studio album featured collaborations with top Nigerian artists like 2face Idibia, Timaya, Phyno, and Flavour. The album solidified Ruffcoin’s presence in the Nigerian music industry, showcasing his lyrical prowess and ability to blend genres.
- Made in Aba (MIA), 2016: Ruffcoin’s third studio album celebrates the spirit of Aba, a city known for its industrious people and innovative culture. The album blends Afrobeat and hip hop to tell stories of resilience and pride.
- Still Sick, 2021: A project that featured collaborations with notable Nigerian artists like Rudeboy and Kcee, this album is a mix of Afrobeat and indigenous Nigerian sounds, highlighting Ruffcoin’s continued relevance in the industry.
- Tradomedical EP, 2023: This project blends traditional Nigerian sounds with modern Afrobeat and features the hit single “Akolam,” further solidifying his place in the genre’s evolution.
Popular Songs:
- Nwa Aba
- Eriwa
- Sweet Music
- Enyi Number One
- Yati Yati
- 30/40
- God Did
- Chuba Aku
- AK
- Na God
- Chop Money
- Koo
- Jegede
- Ebula
- One by One
- Odogwu
- It’s Ok
- World Wide
- Akolam
- Ogbugianyi
- Crazy
- Aba Made
- Okachauto
- Kele Olisa
Collaborations
Ruffcoin has made significant strides in the Nigerian music industry through numerous collaborations with prominent artists, helping to shape his unique Afrobeat and hip hop style. These collaborations have expanded his influence across the country and beyond. One of his most well-known collaborations is “30/40” featuring Phyno, released as part of his album Diamond in the Ruff. The song blends Igbo rap and hip hop, with both artists delivering powerful verses in Igbo and Pidgin. This track became an anthem in the eastern part of Nigeria and showcases their shared prowess in indigenous rap.
Ruffcoin has also worked with JeriQ on the song “Koo,” featured on his 2021 album Still Sick. This collaboration highlights their lyrical dexterity and connection with the streets. Additionally, Ruffcoin teamed up with Rudeboy (formerly of P-Square) on “Yati Yati,” another track from Still Sick, and collaborated with the iconic Duncan Mighty on the gospel-inspired track “Na God,” which praises the Almighty.
These collaborations not only demonstrate Ruffcoin’s versatility as an artist but also solidify his position in the Nigerian music scene, working with both established and emerging stars across various genres.
Other significant collaborations are with:
- Flavour
- 2Face Idibia
- MI
- KCee
- Umu Obiligbo
- Davido
- Zoro
- Iyanya
- Jeriq
- Effect MC
- 2shotz
- Ruggedman
- Sound Sultan
- Kolaboy
- Waga G
- Stormrex
- Slow Dog
- Tony One Week
- Timaya
Global Performances & Tours
As a celebrated performer, Ruffcoin has toured internationally, promoting Nigerian culture and showcasing his music to global audiences. His performances have taken him to notable countries such as:
- United States of America
- Netherlands
- Turkey
- Italy
- Germany
- Hungary
- South Africa
- Cambodia
- Vietnam
- Thailand
- Malaysia
His international tours have not only expanded his fan base but have also made him a global ambassador of Nigerian music, representing his country and heritage on some of the world’s largest stages.
Brand Ambassadorships
Ruffcoin’s strong ties to his roots are reflected in his ambassadorship roles. As a Ford Foundation Ambassador for the Proudly Made in Aba campaign, Ruffcoin has taken on the mission of promoting the ingenuity and creativity of products made in Aba, bringing global attention to the entrepreneurial spirit of the region.
In 2023, Ruffcoin signed a brand ambassadorship deal with Fire Gin, a ginseng energy drink, in the city of Lagos. His influential status in the Nigerian entertainment scene has played a significant role in increasing the drink’s popularity. With Ruffcoin’s endorsement, Fire Gin has gained widespread attention, making it a sought-after product among his fan base and beyond.
Connect with Ruffcoin:
- Ruffcoin (Nwa-Aba)
- Instagram: @Ruffcoinnwaba
- Twitter: @Ruffyofficial
- YouTube: Ruffcoinnwaba