Nigerian singer and songwriter Chike has revealed why marriage is not on his immediate list of priorities.
Speaking in an interview on the With Chude podcast, the Running (To You) hitmaker candidly shared his views on marriage, career, and the sacrifices that come with being an artist.
When asked why he has never married, Chike admitted he does not feel ready to discuss the subject from a position of authority, but he was clear about one thing – for young musicians, especially those still carving out their careers, marriage may not be the wisest step.
“I really don’t want to air my opinion on marriage right now because I don’t think I have enough experience, or I don’t think I would speak from a place of actual authority,” Chike began.
“But this is what I think. I do not think that any young artist, whether he’s trending, trying to break in, or trying to get to the next place in his career… in fact, I think it’s a stupid step to get married.”
He explained that for male musicians, particularly those whose fan base is largely women, marriage could affect how fans perceive them.
“Especially if your base too is built around women being attracted to you, it starts to look like a crime. That same attraction cannot continue,” he said.
Chike gave a practical example, noting how certain behaviours expected from a performer might be misunderstood if he were married.
“If I were in the club today and there’s somebody grinding on me, that’s okay. But if I were to be married, it’s a problem. They forget that I’m a married man and I’m also an artist.”
He was quick to clarify that his comments had nothing to do with infidelity. Instead, he described the constant balancing act musicians face between maintaining authenticity on stage and respecting personal boundaries.
“There are just certain things that happen… this has nothing to do with being unfaithful to your woman,” he said. “Sometimes you have to get somebody to keep away when fans cross lines.”
Chike believes that being in the music industry demands certain sacrifices.
“As a young guy, you can’t just, in that music, just blow and then get married. Give yourself a break. You have to sacrifice something to get something,” he concluded.
Chike-Ezekpeazu Osebuka, professionally known as Chike, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actor who gained fame after participating in Project Fame West Africa and The Voice Nigeria.
He has since established himself as one of Nigeria’s most talented vocalists, celebrated for his soulful sound and storytelling ability.
With hit songs such as Beautiful People, Nakupenda, and the widely acclaimed Running (To You) featuring Simi, Chike has built a strong reputation across Africa’s music scene. Beyond music, he is also an actor and has appeared in the Africa Magic series Battleground.
by esther njoroge
