Ghanaian hip-hop artist Ko-Jo Cue is urging the entertainment industry to take mental health more seriously, drawing from his own personal struggles in a candid conversation that sheds light on an issue often shrouded in silence.
In an exclusive interview, the “Up & Awake” hitmaker revealed that he quietly stepped away from the limelight for over two years to confront a mental health crisis that nearly overwhelmed him.
Born Linford Kennedy Amankwaa, the rapper explained that the turbulence of the COVID-19 pandemic, combined with two deeply traumatic personal events in quick succession, pushed him to a breaking point. Though he chose not to disclose the specifics of those events, citing their relevance to upcoming creative projects, he was clear about their emotional impact.
“In 2020 and 2021, I faced two back-to-back traumatic experiences that pushed me to my limits,” he said. “It was overwhelming. That, along with the stress of the pandemic, led me to seek therapy.”
Ko-Jo Cue, known for his lyrical depth and socially conscious themes, said the decision to seek help was not easy, especially in an industry where strength is often associated with stoicism.
“There’s this misconception that vulnerability is weakness,” he shared. “But I believe asking for help is a sign of strength. It shows you want to heal, grow, and keep going.”
His path to recovery, he says, involved a mix of therapy, supportive friendships, gardening, and—most notably, travel. “I travelled extensively. Nigeria, Kenya, the US, Italy… each new place gave me a fresh perspective,” he recounted. “It’s like cleaning your room, your brain gets decluttered. You’re too busy processing new stimuli to dwell on old pain.”
The rapper, who returned to the music scene with renewed purpose, believes more artists should feel safe discussing mental health without fear of judgment or stigma.
“I want more honest conversations in our space. People need to know they’re not alone,” he said, calling on industry players to create more supportive environments.
With his experiences shaping his new creative work, Ko-Jo Cue hopes his voice will contribute to changing the narrative around mental health in Ghana and across Africa. His story is a reminder that healing is not linear, and that sometimes, stepping back is the first step forward.
