Yemi Alade Opens Up on Depression Triggered by Age Confusion
Nigerian Afrobeats superstar Yemi Alade has candidly shared a personal struggle with depression stemming from a three-year period where she unknowingly misrepresented her age. In a heartfelt interview with media personality Chude Jideonwo on his show WithChude, aired on October 23, 2025, the “Johnny” hitmaker revealed how she repeatedly told people she was 22, only to realize upon calculation that she was actually 25. This revelation left her mentally shaken and depressed for days.
Key Quotes from the Interview
- On the Age Mix-Up: “There was a time someone asked me how old I was, and for about three years I kept saying 22. Then one day I calculated it and realised I was already 25. I took out my phone and did the mathematics.”
- The Emotional Impact: “I was depressed for a few days because my mind couldn’t process it. It was mental—for three years, I didn’t know my right age.”
- Broader Reflection: Yemi described the episode as a “strange phase” in her life, emphasizing how being “lost in the music” and immersed in her career caused her to lose track of time and reality.
Born on March 13, 1989, Yemi Alade (now 36) explained that the inconsistency arose not from deliberate deception but from a genuine disconnection during her early rise to fame after winning the Peak Talent Show in 2009 and breaking out with hits like “Johnny” in 2014. She highlighted the mental toll, noting it felt like a loss of identity and self-awareness.
Context and Lessons
The singer, known for her vibrant energy and advocacy on women’s issues, used the story to underscore the importance of honesty and mental health awareness. She admitted the experience was “mentally challenging” and taught her about self-acceptance amid fame’s pressures. This isn’t the first time Yemi has spoken openly; she has previously addressed industry challenges, but this revelation adds a vulnerable layer to her public persona.
Public Reactions
The interview clip, shared widely on social media, has sparked discussions on mental health in the entertainment industry. On X (formerly Twitter), users praised her transparency:
- Premium Times NG posted: “‘I kept saying I was 22 for three years’: Yemi Alade opens up about depression.”
- Naija News shared a video excerpt, garnering views and comments on the relatability of age-related insecurities.
Fans expressed support, with some relating it to societal pressures on women in music to appear youthful. No major backlash noted; instead, it has been hailed as inspirational for young artists.
For the full interview, check Chude Jideonwo’s platforms or YouTube channel WithChude. Yemi continues to thrive with recent projects, including collaborations and her role as a coach on The Voice Nigeria. This story serves as a reminder that even stars face hidden battles—prioritize mental health!