Afrobeats star Adekunle Gold has once again brought attention to his lifelong struggle with sickle cell anemia, sharing one of the most painful and emotional experiences of his life in a recent interview. The singer, known for popular songs like Orente, 5 Star, and several other hits, gave fans a deeply personal account of what it truly means to live with a chronic illness that often comes with intense physical pain and emotional pressure.
Speaking in an interview with American media personality Angela Yee, Adekunle Gold reflected on moments from his youth when sickle cell crises nearly broke him physically and mentally. He explained that while people often see the glamorous side of his life today, there was a time when he struggled to even survive the pain that came with sudden and severe health episodes.
He revealed that one of the most difficult periods of his life happened when he was about 20 years old. According to him, that particular crisis was unlike anything he had ever experienced before. The pain came suddenly and escalated quickly, leaving him completely overwhelmed. He described it as the craziest and most unbearable crisis he had ever gone through, one that pushed him beyond his emotional limits.
During that period, he said the suffering became so intense that he reached a breaking point mentally. In his words, he prayed and told God to take his life because he felt he could no longer endure the pain. He explained that it was not something he said lightly, but a moment of complete exhaustion where he felt trapped inside his own body. The intensity of the crisis made him feel like death was the only escape from what he was experiencing.
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He also shared that the situation affected not only him but also those around him, especially his mother. According to him, his mother, who would normally respond strongly or try to encourage him during his crises, was completely overwhelmed that night. He noted that she could not even find the usual words of comfort or correction. Instead, there was silence and helplessness, as the severity of his condition left everyone unsure of what to do. That moment, he said, showed just how serious sickle cell crises can become when they reach extreme levels.
Adekunle Gold went further to explain that living with sickle cell disease is not only about physical pain but also about emotional and psychological strain. He said the condition often comes with unpredictable episodes that can interrupt daily life without warning. This unpredictability, according to him, is one of the hardest parts of living with the illness, because a person can feel fine one moment and completely incapacitated the next.
He also spoke about the stigma and misunderstanding that often surround people living with sickle cell anemia. According to the singer, many people react differently once they learn about his condition. He said that instead of seeing him as a normal person managing a health challenge, some individuals begin to treat him with pity or sympathy that feels uncomfortable and limiting.
He explained that this reaction often makes people assume that he is fragile or constantly close to death. While he understands that many of these reactions come from concern, he noted that they can also be emotionally draining. In his view, such perceptions can make people living with chronic illnesses feel boxed in or underestimated, even when they are strong, active, and successful in their lives.
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Despite all these challenges, Adekunle Gold emphasized that his journey has been one of survival, strength, and growth. He reflected on how far he has come from those painful moments in his early life to becoming one of Nigeria’s most successful music artists on the global stage. He explained that his experiences with illness have shaped not only his outlook on life but also his music and creativity.
He shared that his health struggles have influenced some of his songs, including 5 Star, where he expresses gratitude for life, survival, and success despite the odds stacked against him. For him, music has become a form of expression and healing, allowing him to turn pain into art that inspires others going through similar struggles.
Adekunle Gold also highlighted that his success today is something he does not take for granted. He spoke about being a husband and a father, and how these roles have given him even more reasons to appreciate life. He explained that there were times in the past when he never imagined reaching this stage of stability and happiness, especially during moments when his health challenges felt overwhelming.
Reflecting again on that dark night in his twenties, he expressed deep gratitude for where he is today. He said he is thankful to God for keeping him alive through all the painful experiences he has endured. For him, every day represents another chance to live, create, and inspire others who may be facing similar health battles.
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He added that while sickle cell disease remains a part of his life, it does not define who he is or what he can achieve. Instead, he sees his journey as proof that people living with chronic conditions can still succeed, thrive, and build meaningful lives.
In closing, Adekunle Gold’s story stands as a powerful reminder of resilience. From moments of deep despair to international success, his journey reflects endurance, faith, and determination.
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