‘It symbolized how men suffer in silence’ – Tulenkey on why he taped his lips at TGMAs

Ghanaian rapper Tulenkey has shed light on the symbolic gesture that got many people talking during the 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMAs).

The rapper sparked curiosity on May 10 when he appeared at the event dressed in an all-black suit with his mouth taped shut — a striking image that left both attendees and fans online wondering about its meaning.

The mystery deepened when Tulenkey, after winning an award, refused to give an acceptance speech, maintaining his silence throughout the moment.

In a recent interview , Tulenkey has finally opened up about the reason behind his bold appearance. According to him, the taped mouth was a powerful statement on the often-overlooked struggles men face with emotional and mental health.

“It’s a message. It speaks of what men go through, the inner battles we fight,” he explained. “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.”

Tulenkey’s action, while unconventional, resonated deeply with conversations around mental health, especially among men, who are often discouraged from speaking openly about their struggles.

Touching on how he personally manages his mental well-being, the rapper shared that he turns to meditation and meaningful conversations for support. “I meditate and speak to emotionally mature people,” he said.