Singer Michael Kiwanuka reveals stroke, begins long road to recovery

Ugandan-born British singer-songwriter Michael Kiwanuka has opened up about a difficult health battle, revealing that he suffered a stroke earlier this year and is now undergoing rehabilitation.

The 39-year-old musician, whose soulful sound has earned him a global following and a strong connection with his Ugandan heritage, disclosed the news this week while announcing his forthcoming fifth album, Fudge.

Kiwanuka said the stroke was caused by bleeding in his brain, which he attributed to high blood pressure. He described the resulting brain injury as “quite severe” and said there is still a long road of rehabilitation ahead.

The revelation also explains why the Cold Little Heart singer missed a number of scheduled performances, including shows in the United States. His team had previously announced that he would pull out of several festival and North American dates because of continued illness and medical advice.

“It’s a long, tough journey ahead but I’m fighting to get better,” Kiwanuka told his fans.

He added that the past few months had been difficult but said he now feels he is making progress.

For fans in Uganda, the news comes as a reminder of the journey of a musician whose international success has kept his Ugandan roots firmly in the spotlight. Kiwanuka, who grew up in London in a Ugandan family, has become one of the most recognised British artists of Ugandan descent, winning the prestigious Mercury Prize in 2020 for his album KIWANUKA.

Despite the health setback, Kiwanuka is still giving his fans something to look forward to. His new album, Fudge, will be released on October 23 through Polydor Records. The album was recorded before his stroke and marks his first fully self-produced album since his 2012 debut, Home Again.

The album had initially been held back as Kiwanuka dealt with his illness.

Unlike the grander productions associated with some of his previous work, Fudge was created in a more relaxed environment with members of his live band in Southampton, England. The album is described as carrying themes of optimism, playfulness and freedom.

Kiwanuka said he is uncertain when he will return to touring or what performing will look like after his recovery.

He thanked the medical professionals who have cared for him, as well as his family, friends and team for supporting him through what he described as one of the toughest challenges he has faced.

And as Ugandan fans wait for new music from one of their own on the international stage, Kiwanuka's message remains simple: the journey back has begun.