Michael Kiwanuka's stroke has left the 39-year-old singer facing a “long, tough journey” through rehabilitation. In a health update shared on Instagram on Wednesday, 23 September, he said the stroke happened several months ago and caused a severe brain injury.
The London-born musician explained that the medical emergency was linked to high blood pressure. He has since missed performances in the United States and does not yet know when he will be able to tour again.
What caused Michael Kiwanuka's brain injury?
“A few months ago I suffered a stroke brought on by a bleed in my brain brought on by high blood pressure,” Kiwanuka told fans.
He said recovery had already taken months and remained uncertain. “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.”
Kiwanuka added that doctors had classified the resulting brain injury as “quite severe”, meaning he still has extensive rehabilitation ahead. There is no confirmed timetable for his return to performing. The touring schedule, quite reasonably, now takes second place to his health.
“I'm not sure when I'll be able to be back out on the road or what that will look like,” he said. “There's a lot of rehab to be done, it's a long, tough journey ahead but I'm fighting to get better.”
How is his recovery progressing?
Although the past few months have been difficult, Kiwanuka said he believes his condition is improving.
“It has been a difficult few months I must say but it feels like I'm on my way there now,” he wrote.
The singer also thanked the “incredible NHS staff” who cared for him. He described the experience as one of the toughest challenges he has faced and said he would be glad to reach the other side of his recovery, whenever that may be.
“Until then, I wish you all well and look forward to seeing you further down the road,” he added.
Kiwanuka won the Mercury Prize in 2020 and has received five Brit Award nominations. His announcement makes clear that any return to recording or live performances will depend on his rehabilitation rather than a fixed industry deadline, an unusually sensible arrangement for an industry fond of fixed deadlines.
Fellow musicians send their support
Messages of support quickly appeared beneath Kiwanuka's post. Grammy Award winner Miguel urged him not to rush the recovery process.
“Man, take your time healing you are needed brother,” the 40-year-old “Adorn” singer wrote.
Radiohead guitarist Ed O'Brien also responded, writing: “Sending love to you Michael.”
Kiwanuka has not announced when he expects to perform again. For now, he remains focused on rehabilitation after the brain bleed and the serious injury it caused.
