The 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMAs) showcased many memorable moments, but Ghanaian rapper Tulenkey’s appearance sparked perhaps the most profound conversation. Sporting an all-black suit and a piece of black tape covering his mouth, Tulenkey delivered a potent message that transcended the typical red-carpet spectacle. The image of the rapper, his lips sealed, immediately prompted questions: What did it mean? What statement was he trying to make? As it turns out, the tape was a deliberate and deeply personal symbol, representing the silent struggles of men and their mental health. This wasn’t merely a fashion statement; it was a visual metaphor for the societal pressures that often silence men’s vulnerabilities. Tulenkey, known for his powerful lyrics and social commentary, effectively leveraged his platform to raise awareness about an often-overlooked issue: men’s mental and emotional well-being. This article will unpack the meaning behind Tulenkey’s symbolic gesture, drawing directly from his explanation in a 3FM interview. It will explore his inspiration and the deeper issues it highlights surrounding male vulnerability and emotional expression. The rapper’s courageous statement on men’s mental health serves as a critical reminder of the challenges many face.

At the 26th TGMAs on May 10, 2025, Tulenkey made a striking visual statement. His all-black suit provided a stark backdrop for the black tape covering his lips. Throughout the event, Tulenkey communicated solely through gestures, a commitment to his message that extended even to accepting the Best Hiplife Song award. His silence amplified the visual impact, drawing attention to the tape and the unspoken message it conveyed.

The meaning behind the tape, as Tulenkey explained in a subsequent interview with 3FM, lies in the suffering in silence experienced by many men. “It’s a message,” Tulenkey stated. “It speaks of what men go through, the inner battles we fight. Because being a man, when you are vulnerable, when you talk about your emotions, you are seen as weak. So they would rather die inside than let it out. The tape symbolised suffering in silence.” This quote encapsulates the core of his message: men often feel pressured to suppress their emotions, fearing judgment and ridicule if they show vulnerability. This societal expectation, according to Tulenkey, can lead men to suffer in silence rather than seek help or express their true feelings.

The issue of men’s mental and emotional health is complex and often stigmatized. Societal expectations often dictate that men should be strong, stoic, and self-reliant, leaving little room for vulnerability or emotional expression. This stigma can prevent men from seeking help when they are struggling, leading to a host of negative consequences.

The stigma of vulnerability is deeply ingrained in many cultures. Men are often taught from a young age to suppress their emotions and avoid appearing weak. This can create a barrier to seeking help, as men may fear being judged or ridiculed for admitting they are struggling. Societal expectations contribute significantly to this stigma, perpetuating the idea that men should be emotionally resilient and independent.

The consequences of suppressed emotions can be severe. Men who suppress their emotions are at higher risk for developing mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Suppressing emotions can also lead to physical health problems, such as high blood pressure and heart disease. While concrete statistical data would further highlight the gravity of this issue, the anecdotal evidence and personal experiences shared by many men underscore the importance of addressing this issue.

Finding healthy outlets for emotional expression is crucial for men’s mental well-being. Therapy, support groups, and open communication with trusted friends and family can provide safe spaces for men to process their emotions and seek support. Encouraging men to embrace vulnerability and seek help when needed is essential for breaking down the stigma surrounding men’s mental health.

Tulenkey’s powerful statement served as a catalyst for conversations about men’s mental health. By using his platform to raise awareness about this important issue, he sparked a dialogue that extends beyond the entertainment industry. His symbolic gesture highlights the power of art in raising awareness about social issues and challenging societal norms.

The potential impact of Tulenkey’s message on his audience is significant. By speaking out about his own struggles and encouraging other men to do the same, he can help to break down the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and encourage more men to seek help when they need it.

Tulenkey’s silent yet profound statement at the 2025 TGMAs serves as a stark reminder of the struggles men face regarding their mental and emotional well-being. By covering his mouth with tape, the rapper visually represented the societal pressures that often force men to suffer in silence. As he explained in his 3FM interview, his message encourages a critical conversation about male vulnerability and the importance of providing safe spaces for men to express their emotions. Ultimately, Tulenkey’s act transcends entertainment, urging society to acknowledge and address the mental health challenges faced by men, inspired by what he describes as, “the inner battles we fight.” Consider sharing this message to promote further discussion and support for men’s mental health.