Ghanaian hip-hop artist Ko-Jo Cue is urging the entertainment industry to have more open conversations about mental health. He believes that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Ko-Jo Cue, who has personally faced mental health challenges, shared his story in an interview with Graphic Showbiz on Monday, May 19. After being away from the music scene for over two years, he emphasized the importance of talking openly so others know they are not alone.
The artist, known for his hit single Up & Awake, revealed that two traumatic events happening close together, combined with the stress of the COVID-19 pandemic, had a deep emotional impact on him. This ultimately led him to start therapy.
“In 2020 and 2021, I went through two tough experiences back-to-back that pushed me to my limits,” Ko-Jo Cue said. “I’m not sharing all the details because they relate to my upcoming projects. But those events, plus the pressure of COVID, became too much. That’s what made me seek therapy.”
Ko-Jo Cue, whose real name is Linford Kennedy Amankwaa, also spoke about how traveling helped him heal.
“I traveled a lot—to Nigeria, Kenya, the US, and even lived in Italy for a while. Traveling helped me clear my mind. It’s like cleaning your room; a new environment gives your brain fresh things to focus on, which helps stop overthinking,” he explained.
Besides travel, he said that time, therapy, spending time with friends, and gardening helped him manage his emotions and stay grounded during his healing process.
Looking back on his two-year break from music, Ko-Jo Cue said he values every moment, even those away from the spotlight.
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