Artist Overview: Nareiq Millette, known in the music world as Ruga Reiq, is a Queens-bred rising rhymer making waves with his recently acclaimed release, “My B.” With roots steeped in the music industry thanks to his mother, Dina Smith (a.k.a. Strawberry), who worked with icons like LL Cool J, Ruga’s passion for music has been lifelong and inextricable.
Background: From a young age, Ruga was immersed in a world rich with rhythms and beats, which shaped his journey as an artist. He began recording at just 14 years old with only a microphone and a Dell computer, laying the foundation for his career. Over the years, he has produced hundreds of tracks, showcasing a dynamic range that reflects the challenges of his upbringing in various neighborhoods of Queens.
The Rise of Ruga Reiq: Ruga’s life experiences fueled his artistry. Growing up in Southside Jamaica and toying between neighborhoods, he developed a hard-edged, emotionally charged sound. Becoming a father at 16 introduced a new depth to his work—his daughter Layla became a source of inspiration and motivation. The birth of his second daughter, Isabel, in 2016 further solidified his commitment to his craft, transforming his personal struggles into powerful musical expressions.
Musical Style and Influences: Ruga Reiq is a multifaceted artist—a lyricist, vocalist, and performer who effortlessly connects with audiences. His sound fuses elements of trap and soul, drawing from his life experiences to create relatable and engaging music. His 2018 debut mixtape, Thug Passion, received critical acclaim for its seamless blend of genres and evocative storytelling.
Recent Work: Ruga is now poised to dominate 2024 with his latest single, “My B.” This track showcases his evolution as an artist, featuring a trap-heavy beat combined with smooth, serenading production. Ruga’s hypnotizing cadence and lyrical depth provide a window into his love life, further solidifying his authenticity in the music scene.
Previously released singles include:
- “Big Layo” [2022]
- “All Hands On Me” [2022]
- “Sneeze” [2023]
- “In Here” [2023]
- “IDRK” [2023]
Collectively, these tracks highlight Ruga’s versatility and dedication to pushing musical boundaries.
Conclusion: UMG Network eagerly anticipates Ruga Reiq’s next moves and encourages listeners to follow his journey closely. Dive into his world, engage with his music, and share your thoughts in the comments. Ruga Reiq is here, and he’s just getting started!
