Speaking on “Behind the Hustle” on 3Xtra, the award-winning artist explained that, despite widespread perceptions that he has “made it”, he still feels he is only partway along his journey and has discovered that fame does not resolve deeper emotional issues.
“Growing up, I thought success would fix everything, but it’s even getting worse. Success cannot fix everything,” he said, reflecting on how his expectations of stardom have contrasted with reality.
The musician, who regularly performs to large crowds, described a stark contrast between the energy of the stage and the emptiness he often feels once the cameras are off.
“When I step off the stage, when I leave here, and when I’m not behind the cameras, I feel so lonely, especially when I’m not with my family. But when I’m with my family, like my wife and my kids, I’m super fine,” he said.
Fameye added that, while many look at his career and see the definition of success, his own benchmark is much higher and still unmet.
“What people think is success isn’t success for me yet. Maybe I have to get to a certain point before I’ll know,” he continued, suggesting that his idea of fulfilment goes beyond awards and public recognition.
Withdrawal in difficult moments
The singer also spoke candidly about how he responds during periods he describes as his “darkest times”, saying he tends to shut out almost everyone, including those closest to him.
“During my darkest times, I go silent. I do it all the time. I don’t put out music. I don’t talk to anybody. I’m always indoors,” he revealed.
He admitted that this coping mechanism can strain family relationships, even though he recognises its negative impact.
“I don’t even talk to my kids or my family, which is bad, but that’s just how I deal with it,” he said.
Living with emotional pain
Fameye went on to reflect on the emotional toll of the past few years, saying he has learned to accept that disappointment and hurt from others are an unavoidable part of life.
“One pain I’ve learned to live with is that humans are always going to be humans. I just understand that, and I live with it. So much pain,” he said, indicating that the full extent of what he has experienced would be overwhelming to share in public.
“If I want to explain it, this whole set will become very emotional,” he added, suggesting the depth of feeling that remains largely hidden behind his public persona.
Despite carrying that burden, Fameye said he continues to present a cheerful face whenever he steps into the public eye, whether at events, on stage or in front of television cameras.
“The people who hurt me, I still understand and live with them. I’ve smiled so many times in public, on stage. Even an hour ago, I wasn’t happy, but I had to look good for the cameras,” he said.
His comments offer a rare insight into the pressures and isolation that can accompany success in the entertainment industry, and into the gap between the image of a thriving celebrity and the private reality behind it.
