Paul Okoye

Paul Okoye, professionally known as Rudeboy or King Rudy, is a highly acclaimed Nigerian singer, songwriter, dancer, and record producer. He first gained global prominence as one half of the legendary African music duo P-Square, alongside his twin brother Peter Okoye (Mr P). Since going solo, he has established himself as a dominant force in the Afrobeats, R&B, and reggae-dancehall genres. He is also the founder of the record label Fire Department Inc.

Early Life and Background

Paul Nonso Okoye was born on November 18, 1981, in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria, though his family originally hails from Ifite Dunu in Anambra State. Born to Mazi Moses and Josephine Okoye, Paul grew up in a large family. He developed an early passion for music and performing arts, heavily influenced by global icons like Michael Jackson and Bobby Brown.

Education

Paul completed his secondary education at St. Murumba College in Jos, where he and his twin brother joined a music and drama club, honing their skills in singing and dancing. He later gained admission into the University of Abuja, where he obtained his bachelor's degree.

Career and Major Songs

Paul's musical journey reached unprecedented heights as a member of P-Square, one of Africa's most successful music groups in history. However, following the duo's highly publicized disbandment in 2017, Paul launched his solo career under the moniker Rudeboy.

He quickly proved his individual prowess with the release of hit singles like "Fire Fire" and "Nkenji Keke" in 2017. In 2019, he released the massive hit "Reason With Me", with a music video directed by Clarence Peters. The song became the most-viewed African music video on YouTube for that year, garnering well over 100 million views. In 2021, Rudeboy released his debut solo studio album, Rudykillus.

Notable People He Has Worked With

Throughout his career, Paul has predominantly worked alongside his twin brother Peter Okoye. His music videos and projects have also featured collaborations with top-tier African music executives and directors, including Clarence Peters.

Personal Life

Paul Okoye was previously married to Anita Tonye Isama, whom he met in 2004 during his time at the University of Abuja. The couple tied the knot in 2014 and share three children: a son named Andre (born 2013) and twins Nathan and Nadia (born 2017). However, the marriage ended after Anita filed for divorce in 2021, which was finalized in December 2022. Currently, Paul is in a relationship with his partner, Ivy Ifeoma.

Latest News and Current Activities

In 2021, P-Square fans celebrated as Paul and Peter Okoye temporarily reunited and performed together for a few years. However, in August 2024, Paul confirmed during an interview that P-Square had split again, citing creative differences and a desire to focus entirely on his solo career as Rudeboy. In 2026, he remains an active solo artist, navigating the music industry under his Fire Department Inc. label and continuing to expand his international reach.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Rudeboy's real name? His real name is Paul Okoye.

How old is Paul Okoye? He was born on November 18, 1981.

Are Peter and Paul Okoye twins? Yes, Paul Okoye (Rudeboy) and Peter Okoye (Mr P) are twin brothers.

Who is Paul Okoye's current wife? After his divorce from his first wife Anita in 2022, Paul Okoye found love again and is currently with his partner, Ivy Ifeoma.

Who sang Reason With Me? "Reason With Me" is one of Rudeboy's biggest solo hit songs, released in 2019.