Nigerian singer Adekunle Gold has opened up about his relentless work ethic, revealing that he has not taken a break since releasing his debut album, Gold.
The Afrobeats star, who is married to fellow singer Simi, burst onto the music scene in 2014 with his breakout hit Sade. He later signed with Olamide’s YBNL, where he released Gold, the album that cemented his place in the industry.
However, speaking about his drive for success, the 38-year-old artist shared how his journey to fame was fueled by a deep hunger for more.
Chasing Dreams Relentlessly
Adekunle Gold recounted his early struggles, stating:
“From what I can remember, there were no examples around me of what I wanted to become. I knew there was more for me to be, and I wanted it. So when I finished secondary school, the chase began.”
Despite earning a degree in Art and Industrial Design from Laspotech, he felt unsatisfied. He explored multiple creative ventures, learning photography, mastering graphic design, and even running his own branding company. But none of it seemed enough.
His passion for music remained at the core of everything, and when his big break finally came, he still found himself pushing harder.
“For every win I had, I was chasing 10 more. I didn’t know how to stop and enjoy my victories.”
A Wake-Up Call From His Daughter, Deja
Interestingly, it was his four-year-old daughter, Deja, who made him realize he needed to slow down and enjoy life.
According to the singer, Deja once told him:
“Daddy, you are always serious about everything.”
Initially, he denied it, but when she insisted, he began to reflect.
“Many people have said this to me over the years, but hearing it from my daughter hit differently. It made me wonder.”
Adekunle Gold traced his seriousness to his strict African upbringing, where laughter was rare, and discipline was the norm.
“My dad was a very strict man. He rarely laughed with us, and when he did, it felt like a better day than usual.”
A New Perspective on Life
Now, the singer is making a conscious effort to relax and appreciate his journey.
“As dramatic as it sounds, I haven’t rested since the Gold album. I have made a pact with myself (the 22nd one) to relax and enjoy more, be in the moment, and let my hair down (even though I cut it all off sha). I am a being, not a machine.”
Adekunle Gold’s story is a testament to the power of hard work, but also a reminder that sometimes, pausing to enjoy the wins is just as important as chasing them.
