I Wouldn’t Have Married My Wife If She Was SS or AS — Adekunle Gold on Genotype Compatibility

Adekunle Gold has spoken about genotype compatibility and the importance of awareness about sickle cell before marriage.

Nigerian singer Adekunle Gold has called for greater awareness about sickle cell and genotype compatibility, stressing the importance of knowing one’s genotype before marriage and having children.

The singer made the remarks while speaking on the One54 Africa Podcast, where he discussed sickle cell and the role of genotype compatibility in family planning.

Adekunle Gold expressed strong views about people living with sickle cell and the potential implications of having children, urging greater awareness of the condition.

“There is so much awareness that needs to be done. If you have sickle cells forget about love, you can’t do it because it makes no sense,” he said.

The singer said people should consider the possibility of having children affected by sickle cell when making decisions about marriage and starting a family.

He also disclosed that genotype compatibility was one of the first issues he and his wife, singer Simi, considered when they met.

According to him, the couple checked their genotypes and found that they were compatible.

“I wouldn’t have married my wife if she was SS. When we met the first thing we did was know our genotype and we match. So she is AA,” he said.

Adekunle Gold’s comments have drawn attention to the importance of genotype testing and conversations around sickle cell before marriage.

His remarks reflect his personal views and experience regarding marriage, genotype compatibility and the risk of sickle cell in families.

Angélique Kidjo Makes History as First African Musician to Receive Hollywood Walk of Fame Star

Beninese music icon Angélique Kidjo has made history as the first African musician to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Kidjo was honoured with the 2,854th star on the famous Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles, marking another major milestone in her decades-long career and international influence.

The four-time Grammy Award winner has become one of Africa’s most celebrated musicians, known for blending West African musical traditions with global sounds and using her platform to promote African culture and social causes.

The historic ceremony attracted several personalities from the African entertainment industry, including Nigerian singer Adekunle Gold, who was in attendance as Kidjo received the honour.

The recognition places Kidjo among the numerous global entertainment figures whose contributions to music and popular culture have been immortalised on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

For the veteran musician, the honour represents a significant moment not only in her career but also in the global recognition of African music and its influence on the international entertainment industry.

Kidjo has spent decades performing on major international stages and collaborating with artistes from different parts of the world, helping to introduce African sounds and stories to wider audiences.

Her latest honour adds to a long list of achievements that have established her as one of Africa’s most influential musical figures.