It is with heavy hearts that we report the passing of Ghanaian rapper OJ Blaq at the age of 40. The music industry has lost a talented artist who left an indelible mark on the Ghanaian music scene. OJ Blaq’s departure comes after a prolonged struggle with a persistent kidney ailment that spanned numerous years. While the exact cause of his demise remains undisclosed, his valiant battle with health issues has been an inspiration to many.
OJ Blaq, born Andy Nii Akrashie in Accra, Ghana, began his musical journey during the early 2000s. His inaugural album, “The Blaq Mixtape,” released in 2006, catapulted him into the limelight, showcasing his unique talent and musical creativity. As the years went on, OJ Blaq continued to captivate audiences with a string of singles, with his chart-topping track “Chalewote” receiving widespread acclaim.
One of the most remarkable aspects of OJ Blaq’s journey was his transition from rap and hip-hop to urban gospel. This change showcased his versatility as an artist and his willingness to explore new musical horizons while staying true to his roots. His music carried a distinctive rap technique combined with incisive social commentary woven into his verses, reflecting his thought-provoking perspective on various issues.
However, OJ Blaq’s journey was not without its challenges. In a revealing interview last year on Asaase Radio, he disclosed the pivotal moment when his health took a drastic turn. He candidly shared that his double kidney failure was a result of years of binge drinking and smoking. The rapper’s health struggles served as a wake-up call, prompting him to make significant lifestyle changes in order to prolong his life.
“I totally stopped smoking and drinking, and I started eating more vegetables. Not all vegetables are good for renal patients, it hasn’t been easy switching my diet, but if you really love your life, you have to adapt,” OJ Blaq passionately stated during the interview. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing one’s health and making informed dietary choices. He urged the youth to be vigilant about their well-being, advising them to undergo regular check-ups and to research the right foods to consume.
OJ Blaq’s journey to health and his determination to spread awareness about the importance of healthy living demonstrated his resilience and commitment to his own well-being. He candidly shared how an accident on a motorbike initially led to his health issues. Swelling in his feet, which he attributed to the accident, turned out to be symptoms of kidney failure. His diagnosis came after he experienced intense fatigue and was subsequently put on dialysis.
As the news of OJ Blaq’s passing reverberates through the music community and beyond, his legacy as a talented artist and a beacon of inspiration for those battling health issues will endure. His story serves as a reminder that taking care of one’s health is a fundamental responsibility, and his words of advice continue to echo: “Do a lot of check-ups and eat well. Sometimes, due to ignorance, we are not aware that certain things aren’t good for us, so we need to research on the right foods to consume.”
source-www.graphic.com
