Music gave me solace when acting pushed me away – Rento

Fast-rising artist, Rento

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Fast-rising actor and singer, Rento, has opened up about the harsh realities of the entertainment industry, his decision to step back from acting, and his growing music career.

In an interview with Saturday Beats, the entertainer revealed that his latest single ‘Damiloun’ was born out of deep frustration and emotional turmoil.

He said, “Damiloun, a Yoruba word meaning ‘answer me,’ came at a time when I felt overwhelmed by the hurdles I faced in Nollywood despite years of hard work. I have featured in more than 100 movies, but I haven’t received my due recognition. They don’t even call me for most of their jobs.”

Rento added that he often had to fight for roles rather than earn them on merit. “Sometimes I have to beg or force myself to get a role. But thank God for music; I have another talent, and people are accepting it. My songs have over a million streams on all digital platforms.”

Describing Nollywood as a system that often frustrates genuine talent, he said, “The entertainment industry is a dark world. If anyone wants to venture into it, I would tell them not to come. It’s pure show business. If you’re real, they won’t give you a chance. You have to play along, pretend, and sacrifice things that aren’t worth it.”

Rento claimed that gatekeepers in the industry deliberately obstruct passionate talents. “The people who run the industry want you to go through a long process. Only those willing to dance to their drum easily get the key,” he lamented.

Tracing his journey, Rento explained that he began acting in 2006 as a child actor in Ogbomosho (Osun State) before moving to Lagos. “I’ve been on the road for long. I’ve sacrificed a lot. They were not giving me chances, so I decided to focus on where people want me more—music.”

He maintained that his switch to music was both spiritual and emotional. “I started composing songs at cemeteries, singing to the deceased without even realising I was making music. That’s when I knew music was my calling.”

Rento also emphasised his commitment to integrity. “I refuse shortcuts that many take to rise in entertainment fame. That path would make me sinful. I want to succeed on my own merit.”

Though stepping back from acting, Rento has worked with some of Nollywood’s top stars, including Odunlade Adekola, Mide Martins, Wunmi Toriola, and Femi Adebayo.

He is also seeing success in music, with a joint project titled ‘Pasuma Wonder’ with Bhadboi OML, topping charts in France and Somalia. “Fans should expect love songs from me now. I’ve done street sounds for the streets; it’s time for love songs.”

Rento revealed plans for an album in 2026 featuring eight tracks and promised more viral hits. “I know I’m going to be big. The discovery stage is very wet. Fans should watch out for back-to-back bangers this year.”

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