Rising star Rukmani is making her mark as one of Nigeria’s freshest voices in R&B and Afro-fusion, and her latest release Not Nice proves exactly why she’s one to watch. Teaming up with rap powerhouse SGaWD, the duo delivers a fearless, witty, and unapologetic anthem that flips the script on heartbreak and sisterhood.
The video brings the story to life with a playful nod to Y2K-era Nollywood—think BlackBerry babes, Lagos nightlife, and throwback glamour. Featuring Lagos rapper and socialite Fresh L as the problematic love interest, the visuals feel both nostalgic and stylishly current. The result is a cultural moment that blends Rukmani’s soulful vocals, SGaWD’s commanding bars, and a storyline that every woman can relate to.
Since her debut project 3XL, Rukmani has been carving her lane as a voice for a new generation of Nigerian artists who are redefining what it means to make music “from Nigeria, for the world.” With Not Nice, she reminds us that heartbreak doesn’t always end in tears—it can just as easily become an anthem of strength, confidence, and joy.
“My music has always been about turning emotion into something beautiful,” Rukmani says. “With Not Nice, it was also about making it fun—something every girl who’s ever been played can vibe to and own.”
