Nigerian Afrobeats star Augustine Kelechi Okechukwu, popularly known as Tekno, has opened up about one of the most difficult periods of his life, revealing that many people wrongly believed he had become lazy after his music career slowed down.
The singer explained that his sudden disappearance from the spotlight was not because he lost interest in music but because he was battling a serious vocal cord condition caused by acid reflux, which left him unable to sing for an extended period.
Speaking during a recent interview with Cool FM Lagos, Tekno reflected on the emotional and physical struggles he endured while trying to recover from an illness that almost ended his music career.
For more about Tekno and his music, visit his official Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/teknoofficial/
Tekno Recalls Career Setback
At the height of his success between 2018 and 2021, Tekno was one of the biggest names in African music, releasing hit songs and performing on major stages across the world.
However, his career suddenly lost momentum after he developed severe vocal cord damage linked to acid reflux.
The condition forced him to take a lengthy break from performing and recording music while focusing on his recovery.
Although fans noticed his absence, many were unaware of the health challenges he was facing behind the scenes.
“People Thought I Was Lazy”
Tekno admitted that one of the most painful parts of the experience was being misunderstood by those closest to him.
According to the singer, he initially chose to keep his illness private, even from members of his management team and people around him.
As a result, many assumed he simply lacked the motivation to work.
“Even the people closest to me were saying that, ‘He is just lazy. He doesn’t want to perform.'”
The singer said hearing such comments while dealing with a serious health condition made the situation even more difficult.
A Very Dark Period
Tekno described the period as one of the darkest moments of his life.
Unable to perform or create music the way he wanted, he gradually lost his passion for the craft that had made him famous.
He revealed that even after recovering physically, he struggled emotionally to reconnect with music.
“I was in a very dark place. Even after I recovered, I hated music. I didn’t want to hear music for a long time.”
The singer explained that he only continued recording because of contractual obligations with his record label, Universal Music.
“I was only forcing myself to do music because I had a deal with Universal.”
Keeping His Illness Secret
Looking back, Tekno admitted that hiding his medical condition may have contributed to the misunderstanding surrounding his absence.
Since very few people knew the true reason behind his reduced workload, many interpreted his silence as laziness or lack of commitment.
The singer said he preferred to deal with the illness privately rather than publicly discuss his health struggles.
How He Found His Way Back
Despite the emotional challenges, Tekno eventually found a path back to music.
He credited inspirational and self-development books with helping him heal emotionally after recovering physically.
According to him, reading changed his mindset and allowed him to rediscover his passion for making music.
The experience ultimately helped him rebuild both his confidence and his love for the industry.
Fans React to Tekno’s Story
Tekno’s revelation has sparked sympathy from fans across social media, with many praising him for speaking openly about his struggles.
Several supporters admitted they had also believed he simply took a break from music, saying they never knew he was battling such a serious medical condition.
Others commended him for persevering despite the physical pain, emotional challenges, and public criticism he faced during one of the most difficult periods of his career.
His story has also reignited conversations about the importance of showing empathy, as many people often face hidden personal battles that are not immediately visible to the public.
Today, Tekno continues to release new music and remains one of Nigeria’s most respected Afrobeats artists, proving that perseverance and resilience can help overcome even the toughest setbacks.
