Michael Kiwanuka is “fighting to get better” after he suffered a stroke a few months ago.
The 39-year-old singer took to social media to announce his new album, Fudge, and told fans he was struck down with a “quite severe” stroke earlier this year, which was brought on by a bleed in his brain.
He wrote on Instagram: “I’m very happy to be announcing to you my new album Fudge.
“I’m especially happy because the last few months I’ve been battling some health problems which would heavily hinder and get in the way of me making music for the foreseeable future.
“A few months ago I suffered a stroke brought on by a bleed in my brain brought on by high blood pressure.
“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.
“I’m not sure when I’ll be able to be back out on the road or what that will look like, the brain injury I suffered was quite severe so there’s a lot of rehab to be done.”
Michael admitted it has been a “difficult few months”, and he will be “happy to be on the other side of it”.
He added: “It’s a long, tough journey ahead but I’m fighting to get better.
“It has been a difficult few months I must say but it feels like I’m on my way there now.
“I want to say a special thank you to all the incredible NHS staff and every single medical professional who has helped care for me and continue to help and encourage me in my recovery.
“And thank you to my friends and family for their continued support and to my team who will keep you updated with all things Fudge related.
“This has definitely been one of the toughest challenges I’ve faced and I’ll be happy to be on the other side of it when the time comes.
“Until then I wish you all well and look forward to seeing you further down the road.”
He captioned his post: “A letter from Michael. More news to come on Fudge tomorrow.”
Last year, Michael axed his planned festival appearances – including We Out Here and Victorious in the UK, All Together Now in Ireland, Hungary’s Sziget Festival and Pukkelpop in Belgium – due to “continued illness”.
