“I have faced rejection many times but quitting was not an option” — Stonebwoy

Ghanaian dancehall artist Stonebwoy has revealed that despite facing repeated rejection throughout his life and music career, quitting has never been an option for him.

The award-winning musician disclosed an X Spaces conversation organised by Node Eight ahead of the Torcher Experience Concert that was held on 5th March 2026 at the Ho Youth Resource Centre. The session formed part of activities under the BHIM Impact Programme and was held under the theme “Built for the Journey: Mental Resilience for Young Musicians and Creatives.”

The conversation brought together key stakeholders in the creative and youth development space. Panelists included rising artistes Kenny Ice, Tuff B and Gbeshie, Richard Amega (Blogger – Bone with the Updates), mental health professional Dr Sedem Amedor, Partner Representative Osman Abdulai Ayariga, and the Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority. The discussion hosted by M.r Komla Opare, Partnership Manager of Node Eight, focused on the emotional realities of chasing dreams and the need for resilience among young creatives.

Speaking candidly about his personal journey, Stonebwoy said he has endured rejection from childhood but has always remained determined to succeed.

“I have suffered rejection many times, but quitting is not an option,” he stated.

The BHIM Nation President recounted an accident he suffered at the age of 13, which kept him in hospital for almost a year. According to him, the experience shaped his outlook on life and strengthened his resolve to push forward despite difficulties.

“Coming up from a guy who got an accident at the age of 13, going through that and returning from the hospital, I said no, I need to go to school,” he shared. “I was at the hospital for almost a year, so I didn’t finish with my year group. I had to join the next group.”

The award-winning mega star who rose through difficulties to bag a Master’s Degree in International Relations and Diplomacy in 2024 explained that although his condition limited his options, he was determined to continue his education. He eventually gained admission to Methodist Day Senior High School in Tema where he was allowed to wear trousers instead of shorts due to his leg condition.

“So once I was in high school, I was finding ways. The talent was there. I would sit and think what I could do considering my situation and everything, life and family,” he said.

According to him, music became more than just a passion; it became a necessity. “When God actually gave me the strength to start pushing the music little by little, I knew that this one would have to kill me. There has never been a point where I wanted to stop the music. Because what else can I do?” he said.

Stonebwoy noted that many people consider quitting when they believe they have alternative options. In his case, he felt he had no second plan and therefore had to either succeed or fail in music.

“Anybody who sometimes has the option to quit has the option to do something else. But when you are going to quit with no option, then my brother and my sister, please rethink it. You are wasting time,” he advised.

On the subject of rejection within the music industry, the artiste disclosed that he has encountered numerous setbacks, including being overlooked for major concerts and festivals.

“I have faced rejection and ridicule all my life,” he said. “People will laugh at your condition or play with what you think you have or what you believe you can do. But it taught me to believe in myself and make sure that with every given opportunity I come correct.”

He further indicated that rejection has not ended, even at his current level of success. According to him, there are instances where decisions are influenced by favouritism and personal interests rather than merit.

“There have been several times your name goes into certain rooms and people will still choose otherwise. Realistically, they are not betting on you. They are just putting you in a corner so you can quit but I keep proving them wrong.” he revealed.

Despite these experiences, the reggae artist emphasised that rejection has strengthened his self-belief. “Rejection has always taught me to bet on myself,” he stated.

The X Spaces discussion formed part of the broader BHIM Impact Programme, an initiative designed to promote mental resilience, wellbeing and responsible lifestyle choices among young creatives. Organisers explained that while ambition is often celebrated and success made visible, the emotional struggles creatives endure are frequently hidden.

The conversation sought to normalise emotional challenges such as rejection, failure, comparison, financial pressure and identity struggles. It also aimed to discourage destructive coping mechanisms, including substance abuse, withdrawal and burnout.

Mental health professional Dr Sedem Amedor highlighted the importance of building healthy coping strategies and separating personal identity from professional outcomes. He encouraged young creatives to seek support when overwhelmed and to cultivate discipline and emotional stability as core skills for success.

Brian Dzansi Dzidefo, Executive Director of Node Eight described the Space as both a conversation and an intervention, intended to raise awareness about mental health pressures among aspiring artistes and entrepreneurs. It also sought to position mental resilience as an essential ingredient for long-term achievement.

During the session, participants were allowed to ask questions and share their experiences, creating what organisers described as a psychologically safe and honest environment.

The session is expected to generate meaningful youth engagement ahead of the Torcher Experience Concert in Ho and to sustain conversations around mental well-being within Ghana’s creative industry.