Douglas Jack Agu (born 19 August 1989), better known by his stage name Runtown, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and producer. His music is a blend of Afrobeats, hip-hop, R&B, and reggae. He gained initial recognition with his song "Gallardo (2014)" featuring Davido. He achieved international recognition with his 2016 single "Mad Over You", The song's success led to a remix by Nigerian-Bajan artist Mr Eazi, further expanding its reach.
Mad Over You emerged from Runtown's debut studio album Soundgod Fest Vol. 1 and debuted at number 38 on the Billboard Twitter Top Tracks chart, marking the singer's first appearance.[3]
Early life
Runtown was born on 19 August 1989 in Enugu the capital city of Enugu State in the southeastern region of Nigeria but grew up partly in Abuja the federal capital territory of Nigeria and in Lagos State in southwestern Nigeria, where he finished his primary education. After the death of his father, he moved to Abuja with his mother, who was working in the Ministry of Health.[4]
Music career
2010–2014: Early Beginnings and Breakthrough
Runtown began his music career in 2007, when he and longtime collaborator Phyno relocated to Lagos to pursue their careers. The duo stayed with J. Martins and contributed to his second studio album, with Runtown not only collaborating but also producing several songs. Through J. Martins, he connected with Timaya, who became a mentor and played a significant role in his growth as an artist. During this period, Runtown honed his skills, learning the intricacies of the music industry while staying with Timaya.[5]
In 2011, Runtown officially launched his career with the release of his debut single, "Party Like It's 1980".[5] In 2014, Runtown released "Gallardo", featuring vocals from Davido. The track served as the lead single from his debut studio album, Ghetto University.[6] "Gallardo" achieved commercial success and won the "Best Collaboration of the Year" award at the 2014 edition of the Nigeria Entertainment Awards.[7]
In the same year, media reports suggested that Runtown was involved in writing the song "Aye" for Davido. Addressing these rumors in an interview with the Nigerian Tribune, Runtown stated, "A lot of people have been asking me that question. Davido has had several interviews where he addressed how the song came about. So if you want to learn more about 'Aye,' ask Davido or read his interviews."[8]
2015–2017: Ghetto University and International Success
On 23 November 2015, Runtown released his debut studio album titled Ghetto University via MTN Music Plus through Eric Many Entertainment.[9] The album generated over ₦35million on the music portal thus earning him a spot in the list of "Top 5 Most Streamed Artist".[10]
On 4 November 2016, Runtown released the ballad "Mad Over You", which charted at number 38 on the Billboard Twitter Top Tracks chart.[11][12] Joey Akan from Pulse Nigeria described the song as a "self-produced track that draws inspiration from the Ghanaian Alkayida sound".[13] Runtown told The Fader magazine that the song was inspired by African beauty.[14]
2018–2022: Independent Music Ventures and Soundgod Music Group
In 2018, Runtown established his record label, Soundgod Music Group, after leaving Eric Many Entertainment due to contractual disputes.[15] Under his label, Runtown continued to release songs, including singles like "Unleash," featuring Fekky,[16] and "For Life."[17][18]
In 2019, Runtown released the EP Tradition, which received critical acclaim for its production quality and Runtown's lyrical prowess. The project included tracks like "Emotions" and "Goosebumps".[19][20]
On December 16, 2022, Runtown released the 'Signs' album, which Deborah Jayeoba from African Folder described as a "sign for Runtown to have a grip on his career because this recent taste of him doesn’t please the music palate".[21]
^Shummba, Ano (5 December 2017). "K.O, Runtown perfect collaborative fad with Call Me". musicinafrica.net. Music In Africa. Retrieved 8 September 2022. oupled with harmonious help from Runtown and an R&B feel, K.O uses his gusto to send a message to his lady through his authoritative love lyrics.
