Portable sparks controversy, calls Zlatan and Runtown "upcoming artists"
Nigerian singer Portable has once again made headlines after labeling fellow musicians Zlatan and Runtown as “upcoming artists,” questioning their relevance in the music industry.
Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has stirred controversy once again by labeling fellow artists Zlatan and Runtown as “upcoming artists.”
During an interview on Echo Room, the Oriade crooner claimed that Zlatan is not widely recognized among wealthy individuals, which, according to him, makes him an emerging artist.
Portable recounted how a car dealer friend discouraged him from engaging in a feud with Zlatan, suggesting that Zlatan was trying to use his name for clout.
“Zlatan is an up-and-coming artist,” Portable said. “A wealthy friend of mine told me not to respond to him because he isn’t even well-known. He said he just started hearing his name and doesn’t know his songs.”
Portable also criticized Zlatan’s style of music, questioning its lyrical quality and audience appeal.
In a separate conversation with Quincy Jonze, Portable weighed in on Runtown’s career, addressing comments made by TikTok sensation Peller, who had also referred to Runtown as an “upcoming artist.” While Portable stated that he disagreed with Peller’s remark, he also questioned why Runtown was no longer making hit songs.
“I’m against what Peller said, but I’m also against Runtown. Why is he not singing again? Why is he no longer dropping hits?” Portable asked.
He then offered unsolicited advice to Runtown, urging him to collaborate on a song. “Tell him to come and feature me, give me a verse, and he will blow again. Work hard, bro, if you don’t want them to forget you,” he added.
Portable’s comments have sparked mixed reactions online, with many questioning his credibility to call out established artists while others see his remarks as yet another publicity stunt.
