The British singer-songwriter Michael Kiwanuka has said he has suffered a stroke and faces a “long tough journey” on the road to recovery.
The 39-year-old singer from London, whose hits include Cold Little Heart and Home Again, said the “quite severe” bleed in his brain was the reason he had missed some tour dates this year when he was due to support Mumford & Sons, and that the stroke had been brought on by high blood pressure.
Kiwanuka, who won the 2020 Mercury prize, said in an Instagram post promoting his new album, recorded before the stroke, that there was still “a lot of rehab to be done”.
He said: “I’m very happy to be announcing to you my new album Fudge. 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,” the post reads. “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.”
He added: “I’m not sure when I’ll be back out on the road or what that will look like, the brain injury I suffered was quite severe.”
Describing the period as “a difficult few months”, he said he had a “long tough journey ahead, but I’m fighting to get better”.
He also thanked the “incredible” NHS staff who have cared for him.
He said: “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.”
The news has prompted an outpouring of support from fans, artists and other celebrities.
6 Music presenter Lauren Laverne responded: “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.”
Singers Olivia Dean and Self Esteem, comedian Romesh Ranganathan and Radiohead guitarist Ed O’Brien also sent supportive messages.
Kiwanuka released his debut album, Home Again, in 2012, followed by his chart-topping record, Love & Hate, in 2016.
The singer said more details on his forthcoming album Fudge will be announced this week.
