Award-winning Ghanaian gospel singer and songwriter, Frank Tagoe, better known as Perez Musik, has revealed that social media attacks sometimes bring him to tears.
The ‘Hewale Lala’ hitmaker shared his emotional battles with trolls, where he opened up about the personal challenges he has faced, both online and offline.
In an emotional conversation, Perez Musik admitted that he occasionally breaks down when social media trolls attack him, particularly when they criticize him over things he has no control over or knowledge about. Asked if he ever cried or felt the need to break down, Perez answered honestly.
“Of course, I do, when it becomes necessary. You know something, I’m a very hard guy, but I’m very emotional. And it’s okay. If that is what will make me okay or reset myself, I don’t mind. I don’t owe anyone. It’s okay to break down sometimes.”
Perez Musik
Despite his hard exterior, Perez Musik made it clear that vulnerability is part of his healing process. He explained that while it may seem surprising to some, emotional breakdowns are his way of resetting himself during tough times, especially when dealing with harsh criticisms from online trolls.
He also shared how these experiences have influenced his music, including his popular track “Hewale Lala.”
Reflecting on the inspiration behind the song, he recounted how difficult circumstances in his life led to a deep personal and financial struggle.
He recalled a time when he was battling not only financial instability but also a lack of a home, which left him sleeping in his studio.
“I don’t like talking about this, but it wasn’t a big issue, but it was. It was a little misunderstanding, and by then, I had nowhere to sleep and was sleeping in my studio. I didn’t have a house and was sleeping in my studio. But to the glory of God, I do have a house, somewhere to lay my head now.”
Perez Musik
Perez Musik further described an incident when the police arrived at his studio, believing that he owed someone money, even though the situation had been caused by life circumstances.
“The police came and said someone said I owe him. They took everything in the studio. They took a car my father gave to me. And frankly speaking, that day I told God, I’m no more in talking terms with Him because it was his work I was doing, so why would he shame me like this?”
Perez Musik
Perez admitted that seeing people watching the situation unfold made the experience even more painful.
Despite the turmoil and hardships, Perez Musik expressed how faith has played a crucial role in his journey, saying that now, by God’s grace, he has a roof over his head.
When asked if he had ever contemplated suicide during those tough times, the crooner did not hesitate: “I have had suicidal thoughts before.”
He stressed that mental health challenges are often hidden, as many people are afraid to speak out due to fear of judgment and stigma.
“People are going through a lot, but they are afraid to come out because when they do, people criticize them and perceive them as mad. Even the social media trolls are going through a lot, so they literally come online to vent their frustration on people. It’s something we have to talk about.”
Perez Musik
Perez Musik on Financial Challenges in Career
The gospel musician revealed the financial challenges he faces in his career, stating that he often spends more than he earns.
According to him, making Gospel music is more of a passion than a lucrative venture.
Perez also shared his concerns about the way churches treat Gospel artists.
“If you want to use the church auditorium for an event, the pastor asks you to go see the church’s administrator, but if the church calls you and you ask them to speak to your manager, they get mad.”
Perez Musik
The ‘Hewale Lala’ hitmaker further revealed that some churches even stop inviting musicians who insist on proper managerial communication.
READ ALSO: Ghana to Enhance Fiscal Discipline with New PFM Act
