By Ejiofor Toochi
The year 2023 was truly remarkable for the music industry, with numerous singers accomplishing great feats and receiving well-deserved recognition for their incredible songs.
It was a year filled with award-winning albums from artists worldwide, including the vibrant genre of Afrobeats.
However, amidst these triumphs, certain singers encountered health challenges and personal circumstances that necessitated them to take a break from their music careers.
This is a list of five (5) notable singers in the music industry who announced a break from music in 2023.
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1. TIWA SAVAGE
On October 17th 2023, Afrobeats sensation Tiwatope Omolara aka Tiwa Savage announced her decision to take a break from music. She revealed that she has been battling a virus and has been advised to rest her voice for a few months.
While she did not specify the exact duration of her break, she reassured her fans that this is only a temporary pause and she intends to return to performing once she has fully recovered. She’d shared, “I’m so sorry. I love you all and promise to be back performing once I’m fully healed.”Tiwaa Savage is the first Nigerian musician to perform at the coronation of King Charles III.
2. DRAKE
Popular rapper and singer, Aubrey Graham aka Drake on the 6th of October, 2023, announced that he’ll be taking a break from music. He’d explained during an interview that he was dealing with health issues, hence the need for the break. He said, “I probably won’t make music for a little bit, I’m going to be real with you. I need to focus on my health first and foremost.
Although he didn’t specify when he’ll return, it is certain that the break will not be permanent. Drake recently released an album, For All The Dogs Scary Hours Edition.
3. WIZKID
Multi-award-winning music star Ayodeji Balogun, popularly known as Wizkid, made an announcement on November 5th, 2023, stating his plans to take a break from the music industry. Through his Instagram post, he mentioned the possibility of a 4 to 5-year hiatus and expressed interest in exploring other career opportunities in sports, such as football, golf, FIFA, and wrestling. He’d written, “Back in 4 years, make una papa chop him money small or maybe five or I fit still go dey play ball now.”
Wizkid’s album ‘Made In Lagos’ achieved a remarkable feat by becoming the best-selling African album in the United States, with an impressive 680,000 sales.
4. VICTONY
Nigerian singer, Victony, whose real name is Anthony Ebuka Victor, took a two-month hiatus from his music career in February 2023. This break was necessary as he underwent his third and final surgery following a severe car accident in 2021. After his break, Victony made a comeback and released several songs, including “My Darling,” “Angelus,” and a remix of “Soweto.”
In addition to his musical endeavors, he achieved a significant milestone in August by obtaining a degree in engineering from the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO).
5. ENRIQUE IGLESIAS
Spanish singer and songwriter, Enrique Iglesias, in November 2023 announced that he’ll be taking a permanent break from music after a 30-year career. The 48-year-old Spanish singer is famous for his hit record, “Hero.”
Enrique is set to release his final album, and farewell contribution to the music industry in February 2024.
These singers have made significant contributions to the music industry, and even after they embark on a break, their names will always be remembered.
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