In 2016, Runtown’s “Made Over You” became one of the biggest Afrobeats hits. But 10 years later, he still hasn’t reached the heights many expected.

Instead of making music, Runtown made headlines for legal battles and breach of contract.

Runtown’s journey began as a freestyle artist on the streets. In 2008, he met Nigerian rapper Phyno, and together they created the record label Penthauze Music. After a few releases, “Gallardo,” featuring Davido, became a hit, bringing Runtown more attention. However, the money from his music didn’t match his rising fame.

Desperate for funding, Runtown signed a 50-50 revenue deal with businessman Okwudili under Eric Manny Records. Phyno didn’t agree, wanting Runtown to self-fund with earnings from “Gallardo.”

In November 2016, Runtown released “Made Over You,” which became an instant hit, reaching No. 38 on Billboard’s Global Twitter Top Tracks chart. He was even booked to perform at the O2 Arena.
However, Runtown started having issues with Dili, the label owner, wanted to be credited in Runtown’s songs—a demand not included in their contract.

Two months before his 1 year contract expired, Runtown was lured into a two-year extension with the promise of a collaboration with Nicki Minaj. It never happened. Dili couldn’t deliver, as he was ban–ned from the U.S. due to legal issues.

For two years, Runtown didn’t receive his royalties. When he asked, the label kept delaying, claiming they needed more funds for promotion.

Frustrated, Runtown pursued a collaboration with DJ Khaled, spending around $50,000 of his own money. Though the song “Money Bag” was recorded, the video shoot was abruptly canceled by his label, leaving him financially drained.

Fed up, Runtown terminated his contract and demanded his unpaid royalties. After a lengthy legal battle, he finally won the case in 2019 and launched his own label, Sound God Music Group.

Since then, Runtown has largely stayed out of the spotlight.