Starspillz Exclusive Interview: Richy Rich Talks “RESPECT ME,” Nigerian Hip-Pop Culture & Staying Authentic
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The Nigerian hip-hop scene has long been a fertile ground for raw talent, fearless expression, and cultural impact. From the eastern part of Nigeria Imo State, a breeding ground for some of Africa’s most iconic hip-hop artists emerges Richy Rich, an independent recordin artist known for his rugged style and uncompromising originality.
Now rooted in the vibrant chaos of Lagos, Richy Rich channels his surroundings into music that feels raw, invigorating, and unapologetically real. While many artists lean toward safe, formulaic sounds, Richy Rich continues to push boundaries, maintaining an authentic and versatile sound that sets him apart.
Fresh off the release of his brand-new single “RESPECT ME,” Richy Rich sat down with Starspillz for an exclusive conversation about his journey, the current state of Nigerian hip-pop, and the challenges artists face today along with possible solutions.
Starspillz: Richy Rich, welcome to Starspillz. For those just discovering you, how would you describe yourself and your sound?
Richy Rich:
Respect, Starspillz. I’d describe myself as a product of my environment Imo State roots with Lagos energy. My sound is rugged, raw, and real. I don’t box myself into one style. I make music that reflects life as it is, not how people want to package it. Authenticity is everything to me.
Starspillz: Coming from Imo State, which has produced legendary hip-hop talent, how did that environment shape you as an artist?
Richy Rich:
Imo State has a strong hip-hop culture. Growing up, lyricism mattered. Bars mattered. You had to earn respect with skill. That foundation stayed with me. It taught me discipline and hunger. Even now, whenever I write, I remember where I’m from and the standard that came with it.
Starspillz: You’ve spent a lot of time in Lagos. How has Lagos influenced your music and mindset?
Richy Rich:
Lagos will either break you or build you. The streets are loud, fast, and competitive. That pressure sharpened me. Lagos gave my music grit it made my sound more aggressive, more urgent. You can hear the hustle, the frustration, and the ambition in my records.
Starspillz: Your new single “RESPECT ME” is making waves. What inspired the record?
Richy Rich:
“RESPECT ME” is personal. It’s about demanding your worth whether in music, life, or society. As an independent artist, you face a lot of doubt and disregard. The song is my response. It’s not begging for respect; it’s stating it. I earned this.
Starspillz: You’re known for avoiding formulaic sounds. Why is staying raw and original so important to you?
Richy Rich:
If I’m going to do music, it has to be honest. Too many artists chase trends and lose themselves. I’d rather take risks and stay true than fit into a mold that doesn’t represent me. Originality lasts longer than trends.
Starspillz: How would you describe the current state of Nigerian hip-pop culture?
Richy Rich:
The culture is alive and powerful, but it’s also conflicted. There’s talent everywhere, but not enough structure or support for real hip-hop. Afrobeats dominates globally, which is great, but hip-pop sometimes gets sidelined. Still, the underground scene is strong and hungry.
Starspillz: What are some major challenges Nigerian hip-pop artists are facing today?
Richy Rich:
Funding is a big one. Independent artists struggle with promotion, distribution, and visibility. Another issue is gatekeeping talent doesn’t always get rewarded, connections do. Also, there’s limited media support for hip-hop compared to more commercial sounds.
Starspillz: What solutions do you think can help push Nigerian hip-pop forward?
Richy Rich:
First, artists need to support each other more collaborations over competition. Media platforms should give hip-hop more spotlight. Also, artists must invest in themselves, learn the business side, and build strong independent brands. Ownership is key.
Starspillz: Finally, what should fans expect next from Richy Rich?
Richy Rich:
More music, more honesty, and more pressure. “RESPECT ME” is just the beginning. I’m building a catalog that represents my journey and my truth. If you rock with real hip-hop, stay locked in.
