“Everyone can relate to pain and struggle. So I’m sharing mine”: Michael Kiwanuka on life after his devastating stroke
The Mercury prize winner hasn’t been able to go home since falling ill last summer. In his only interview, he opens up about the ‘poignancy’ of finally releasing the new album his stroke shelved
TL;DR
- Michael Kiwanuka suffered a hemorrhagic stroke at 38, leading to significant health complications and an extended period of hospitalization and rehabilitation.
- His new album, 'Fudge,' is set to be released, a project completed before his stroke, which now carries a poignant meaning for the artist.
- Kiwanuka is undergoing extensive rehabilitation, focusing on physical recovery, speech therapy, and emotional regulation, aided by music and writing.
- He is raising awareness about the increased risk of stroke among Black African males due to higher rates of high blood pressure.
- Despite the uncertainty of his full recovery, Kiwanuka remains driven to create music, envisioning a future focused on collaboration and reduced travel.
- He emphasizes that his music, including the songs on 'Fudge,' represents who he was and provides a source of hope.
- Kiwanuka highlights the importance of community and personal connection in his recovery and in finding a 'blissful state'.