Michael Kiwanuka reveals he suffered a stroke, faces long recovery ahead

London-born singer Michael Kiwanuka, 39, known for hits such as Cold Little Heart and Home Again, revealed in an Instagram post that he suffered a stroke in recent months, caused by a bleed in his brain linked to high blood pressure.

The health scare explains why the 2020 Mercury prize winner missed several tour dates this year, including US shows where he was due to support Mumford & Sons. He described the brain injury as "quite severe" and said a great deal of rehabilitation still lies ahead.

Announcement tied to new album

Kiwanuka shared the news alongside the announcement of his forthcoming album Fudge, which was recorded before the stroke. He said he was happy to reveal the new record, though the past few months had been a difficult battle with health issues that got in the way of making music.

He said he was unsure when he would return to touring or what that would look like, given the severity of the brain injury. Calling the period one of the toughest challenges he has faced, he thanked NHS staff for the care he received.

The announcement prompted a wave of support from fans and fellow artists, including 6 Music presenter Lauren Laverne, singers Olivia Dean and Self Esteem, comedian Romesh Ranganathan, and Radiohead guitarist Ed O'Brien.

Kiwanuka released his debut album, Home Again, in 2012, followed by his chart-topping Love And Hate in 2016. Further details about Fudge are expected to be announced this week.