‘I Lost My Voice’ — Tekno Finally Opens Up About Career-Threatening Health Challenge That Cost Him Over $1 Million

• Nigerian singer Tekno has opened up about the devastating vocal cord condition that forced him to refund more than $1 million in performance fees and undergo surgery before making a full recovery.

Nigerian singer Tekno has revealed that he refunded more than $1 million in performance fees after losing his voice due to a serious vocal cord condition at the height of his music career.

Speaking on the Afrobeats Intelligence podcast, the award-winning artist described the health challenge as one of the most difficult periods of his life, saying it forced him to cancel several international performances.

According to Tekno, he had to return money that had already been paid by event organisers because he was no longer able to perform.

“I refunded over $1 million of show money when I lost my voice,” he said.

The singer explained that the health crisis began after he strained his voice while performing in Ghana and Togo.

What initially appeared to be a minor throat problem later developed into a severe vocal cord condition, which he said was worsened by acid reflux.

Tekno revealed that he sought medical treatment in London, Los Angeles and New York in a bid to restore his voice.

After months of unsuccessful treatment, he eventually underwent robotic surgery in New York to correct the condition.

He also completed extensive vocal therapy before finally regaining his voice and returning to music.

Reflecting on the experience, Tekno said the ordeal took a heavy emotional and financial toll on him but ultimately changed the way he views his health and career.

The singer has since made a full recovery and resumed performing and releasing new music.