Here’s a well-rounded biography of Runtown (born Douglas Jack Agu), one of Nigeria’s most influential Afrobeats artists:
Personal & Early Life
- Full Name: Douglas Jack Agu
- Date of Birth: 19 August 1989 (age 35)
- Origin: Born in Enugu State, raised in Abuja and Lagos after his father’s death, alongside his mother who worked for the Ministry of Health
Music Career
Beginning & Breakthrough (2010–2014)
- Moved to Lagos in 2007 with collaborator Phyno and worked under J. Martins; released debut single “Party Like It’s 1980” in 2011
- Rose to prominence with “Gallardo” (featuring Davido, 2014), earning Best Collaboration at Nigeria Entertainment Awards
Rise & Global Recognition (2015–2017)
- Released debut album Ghetto University (2015), generating ₦35 million in streams and ranking among the top‑5 most‑streamed Nigerian artists
- Released smash hit “Mad Over You” (2016), charting at #38 on the Billboard Twitter Top Tracks
Independent Era & Label (2018–Present)
- Founded Soundgod Music Group in 2018 after parting ways with Eric Many Entertainment .
- Released EP Tradition (2019) and album Signs (2022) (en.wikipedia.org).
- Returned in late 2024 with the single “Flow”, marking a comeback; in April 2025, released “Do Me” under his label
Style & Influence
- Blends Afrobeats, R&B, hip-hop, and reggae for a relaxed yet captivating soundscape. Hits like “Mad Over You” and “Gallardo” highlight his eclectic influence
- Known for genre-defying tracks (“Unleash” featuring Fekky) and cross-border appeal, including features with Akon, Nasty C, and Sarkodie
Achievements & Recognition
- Won the Vodafone Ghana Music Award (African Artiste of the Year) and Soundcity MVP Awards in 2017).
- Named “Best Collaboration” in 2014’s NEAs.
- Credited with globalizing Afrobeats through viral hits and collaborations
Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Born | 19 August 1989 |
| Genre | Afrobeats, Hip‑hop, R&B, Reggae |
| Debut Album | Ghetto University (2015) |
| Label | Soundgod Music Group |
| Notable Singles | “Gallardo,” “Mad Over You,” “Flow,” “Do Me” |
| Albums/EPs | Ghetto University, Tradition, Signs |
| Awards | NEA, VGMA, Soundcity MVP |
Why He Matters
Runtown’s blend of Afro-fusion, smooth vocals, and cross-cultural appeal positioned him as a domino in the Afrobeats wave. From “Gallardo” and “Mad Over You” to his independent resurgence, he remains creatively vital, shaping the genre’s evolution and inspiring a new generation of artists.