Ric Hassani The Gentleman Who Sang Love Back Into Afropop

Ric Hassani 

Ric Hassani did not burst into the Nigerian music industry with loud street anthems or viral controversy. He arrived softly, like a calm breeze in a noisy room. In an era dominated by high tempo Afrobeats and club bangers, Ric chose love songs. He chose vulnerability. He chose depth.

His journey is not just about music. It is about patience, identity, culture, and the courage to stay different.

A Boy From Port Harcourt With Big Dreams

Born Ikechukwu Eric Ahiauzu on January 6, 1989, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Ric Hassani grew up in a disciplined and educated family. His father was a respected academic, and education was highly valued in their home.

As a child, Ric was quiet but observant. He was drawn to melodies early. While other children played football endlessly, Ric found himself listening closely to songs on the radio. He paid attention to lyrics. He listened to harmonies. He studied emotion in music.

He grew up hearing the sounds of Nigerian legends like 2Baba and Styl-Plus. Their romantic ballads shaped his understanding of music. Love songs were not weak to him. They were powerful.

At church, he sang. In school, he performed occasionally. But music was not yet a full career plan. Education came first.

The Academic Journey

Ric Hassani studied at Covenant University where he earned a degree in Economics. Even while in university, music never left him. He performed at small campus events and wrote songs privately.

After his undergraduate degree, he traveled to the United Kingdom to further his education. He earned a master’s degree in Energy Economics.

Living abroad expanded his musical taste. He listened to artists like John Legend and Sam Smith. Their emotional storytelling resonated deeply with him.

He realized something important.

Nigeria’s music scene was vibrant, but pure romantic ballads were fading. He saw a gap.

The Leap of Faith

Returning to Nigeria, Ric made a bold decision. Despite holding degrees that could secure a corporate job, he chose music fully.

It was not easy.

The Nigerian industry at the time was exploding with Afrobeats. Dance tracks ruled radio. Party songs dominated clubs. Artists like Wizkid and Davido were shaping global narratives.

Ric did not try to imitate them.

Instead, he refined his identity.

The Early Struggles

Before fame, Ric Hassani struggled quietly. He recorded songs that did not immediately gain attention. He faced rejection. He financed some projects personally.

There were moments of doubt.

But he held onto his vision. He believed that authenticity would eventually find its audience.

His breakthrough came with the single Gentlemen in 2016. The song was refreshing. It celebrated respect for women and old school romance.

Nigerians paid attention.

Here was a young man singing about love with sincerity.

The Gentleman Era

In 2017, Ric Hassani released his debut album The African Gentleman.

The album was cohesive and intentional. It blended R and B, soul, and Afro influences.

Songs like Only You, Police, and Sweet Mother resonated with fans who craved emotional depth.

He branded himself not just as a singer, but as a gentleman. In a music culture often filled with bravado, that branding stood out.

He wore suits. He spoke calmly. He carried himself with elegance.

And it worked.

Redefining Romance in Afropop

Ric Hassani’s music reintroduced softness into mainstream Nigerian pop.

He sang about:

• Commitment

• Respect

• Vulnerability

• Emotional honesty

At concerts, couples held hands. Fans sang lyrics word for word.

He proved that romance still sells.

Growth and Experimentation

As his fanbase expanded, Ric experimented with sound. He infused more Afro pop rhythms while maintaining lyrical depth.

His later projects showcased maturity and confidence. He collaborated with different producers and artists, ensuring his sound remained contemporary without losing soul.

He also gained international recognition, performing at shows in Europe and North America.

Challenges in a Competitive Industry

The Nigerian music industry is fast paced. Trends change quickly. Artists must adapt or risk fading.

Ric faced moments where party anthems overshadowed love songs. But instead of chasing trends aggressively, he refined his niche.

He focused on live performances. His concerts became experiences. He delivered strong vocals, emotional storytelling, and stage presence that built loyalty.

Television and Wider Recognition

Ric Hassani expanded his visibility by becoming a judge on Nigerian Idol. This move introduced him to a broader audience.

Viewers saw his personality. Calm. Thoughtful. Encouraging.

He was not just a singer. He was a mentor figure.

The Man Behind the Music

Beyond fame, Ric Hassani is introspective and spiritually grounded. He often speaks about faith, discipline, and self belief.

He values family deeply.

Unlike many celebrities who chase constant controversy, Ric maintains a clean public image.

His life reflects intention.

Influence and Legacy

Ric Hassani represents a counter culture within Afrobeats. While others dominate with high energy bangers, he built a career on sincerity.

He proved that:

• Romance is timeless

• Authenticity can cut through noise

• Education and artistry can coexist

• Patience builds longevity

Young artists inspired by him see that you do not have to be loud to be heard.

Still Writing His Story

Ric Hassani’s journey is still unfolding.

From Port Harcourt classrooms to UK lecture halls, from quiet studio sessions to sold out concerts, he has remained consistent.

He did not rush success.

He cultivated it.

And in doing so, he brought love songs back to center stage in Nigerian pop culture.

He is more than a singer.

He is a storyteller.

A gentleman.

And a reminder that in a world chasing noise, calm confidence still commands attention.