Achieving Fame Long After Entering the Music Scene

Ric Hassani

Nigerian singer-songwriter Ric Hassani recently opened up about his remarkable and unconventional rise in the music industry during an intimate conversation on the CreativiTea podcast.

Though he has an impressive discography, Hassani humorously noted that many fans discover him through his hit single Thunder Fire You, unaware of his extensive musical journey before that breakthrough moment.

The artist recalled how his unique musical style initially made securing a record deal in Nigeria nearly impossible, with many labels skeptical about his unconventional approach.

His big break came in the most unexpected way – when one of his tracks serendipitously soundtracked a viral Bellanaija proposal video. The online frenzy around his music led to lucrative performance offers, ultimately convincing him to leave banking and embrace music fully.

Reflecting on his decade-long career, Hassani emphasized the power of authenticity and patience, encouraging aspiring artists to trust their creative instincts amid industry pressures.

With trademark wit, he shared: “Imagine spending ten years crafting music, only for people to act like you just showed up yesterday because of Thunder Fire You. I’ve toured continents, racked up millions of streams, but still get introduced as ‘that new guy’.

“When I first hit Lagos with my sound, doors kept slamming shut. Nigeria wasn’t ready for what I was serving. But I made a pact with myself – even if this is my last song, it’s going to sound exactly how I want it. Either the industry catches on or I’ll be submitting job applications with headphones on, enjoying my own music.”

He continued: “Then came the Bellanaija miracle. Some couple’s romantic moment became my big break overnight. Suddenly everyone was asking about my ‘new’ song – which ironically was seven months old by then. The performance fees started eclipsing my bank salary, and that’s when I knew: the universe was giving me permission to bet on myself.”

Hassani also touched on the early struggles with industry expectations: “Remember when stylists would dress you in outfits they just took off another artist? I’d see the same pants on Phyno yesterday and me today – absolutely not! I realized if I couldn’t buy visibility, I’d earn it through unforgettable performances. Stare at any stage long enough, and it becomes yours to own.”

The artist concluded with passionate advocacy for Nigeria’s R&B scene: “We need more success stories in this lane to inspire the next generation. Put me on any stage with proper sound – I’ll show you why romantic melodies can be just as electrifying as the hardest bangers.”