Award-winning singer-songwriter Michael Kiwanuka has revealed he has suffered a stroke and faces a “long, tough journey ahead” to recover.
The 39-year-old from London, who won the Mercury Prize in 2020 and has been nominated for five Brit Awards, said in an Instagram post that the stroke occurred “a few months ago” and was caused “by a bleed in my brain brought on by high blood pressure”.
He added that “the brain injury I suffered was quite severe so there’s a lot of rehab to be done”, but told fans he will “look forward to seeing you all soon”.
Kiwanuka simultaneously announced the release of his fifth album, titled Fudge, which was recorded before the stroke.
“I’m very happy to be announcing to you my new album Fudge,” his message said.
“I’m especially happy because the last few months I’ve been battling some health problems which would heavily hinder and get in the way of me making music for the foreseeable future. A few months ago I suffered a stroke brought on by a bleed in my brain brought on by high blood pressure.
“It’s a long journey recovering from a stroke, which is why I missed some gigs recently out in the US, but I look forward to seeing you all soon.
“I’m not sure when I’ll be able to be back out on the road or what that will look like, the brain injury I suffered was quite severe so there’s a lot of rehab to be done, it’s a long, tough journey ahead but I’m fighting to get better.
“It has been a difficult few months I must say but it feels like I’m on my way there now.”
‘One of the toughest challenges’
He thanked “all the incredible NHS staff and every single medical professional who has helped care for me and continue to help and encourage me in my recovery”, and his friends and family for their support.
“This has definitely been one of the toughest challenges I’ve faced and I’ll be happy to be on the other side of it when the time comes. Until then I wish you all well and look forward to seeing you further down the road.”
Fans and fellow artists sent well wishes, with BBC Radio 6 Music presenter Lauren Laverne replying: “So sorry to read this, Michael. What a time you must have had. Really glad you have good care and wishing you a full recovery asap. One day at a time. Xx.”
US singer Miguel wrote: “Man, take your time healing, you are needed brother.”
Radiohead guitarist Ed O’Brien posted: “Sending love to you Michael.”
Kiwanuka first made his mark 15 years ago, being named the BBC’s Sound of 2012, and has established himself as one of Britain’s most acclaimed singers and songwriters.
His first three albums were nominated for the prestigious Mercury Prize for best British or Irish album of the year. He won the trophy in 2020 with his third record, Kiwanuka.
That album also earned him nominations for best male solo artist and album of the year at the Brits, and best rock album at the Grammy Awards.
He is also known for the song Cold Little Heart, which was used as the theme tune for US TV drama Big Little Lies.
But in July 2025 he cancelled all live shows on medical advice because of what was described as “continued illness”.
Fudge was originally scheduled to come out last year. Before it was postponed, an early review in Mojo Magazine described it as an “intimate” and “brooding” album, influence by Neil Young’s On The Beach.
By BBC News
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