Afrobeats star Michael Adebayo Olayinka, popularly known as Ruger, has revealed that he donated his first earnings from music to a church.

Speaking in a recent interview with VJ Adams, Ruger shared that after making the donation, he went on to earn millions within a year.

Reflecting on his journey, he admitted that wealth had changed him, acknowledging that financial success inevitably impacts people’s perspectives and lifestyles.

"My first earnings from music were N500,000 when I started. I remember giving it all to the church—I didn’t spend a single naira. Then came my next payment of N1 million, and I felt like I had arrived. I splurged on shopping, and soon, more millions started rolling in within a year," he recounted.

He further noted how money influences behavior, stating: "Money changes everyone. No one can deny that. When you make more money, the way you handle situations and approach life shifts. Some people stop stressing altogether when they have financial security."

Expressing his aspirations, Ruger referenced Jay-Z, admiring how the rapper ignores criticism due to his success.

"I want to reach a level where nothing stresses me. Take Jay-Z, for example—he doesn’t react to insults because he knows he’s highly successful. That’s the kind of success I aim for."