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Asake Reflects on Tough 2020, Says Experience Shaped His Rise to Stardom
Afrobeats star Asake has opened up about one of the most difficult periods of his life, describing the year 2020 as a turning point that reshaped his journey.
Speaking in a recent interview with Korty EO, the singer recalled how that phase brought unexpected setbacks, leaving him feeling stripped of something that had seemed promising at the time.
“2020 was a serious year. Life humbled me so much. You know when God puts something sweet in your mouth and removes it?”
“That was what happened in 2020. At that time, I did not know that God was building me. I did not expect it. God then gave me, ‘Me I no dey cap, me I no dey form,’ and then He did not give me again.”
Korty : why was 2020 tough for you ?
Asake : In 2020 Life humbled me, God tested me with a hit song “Mr money” and took it from me. pic.twitter.com/9tX1PytIhR
— Mikeoriv (@mikeoriv) March 18, 2026
According to Asake, what initially felt like loss later became the foundation for his breakthrough, as the experience helped shape his mindset and prepared him for the success that followed.
Beyond reflecting on his struggles, the singer also spoke about his long-standing ambition to take his music beyond Nigeria. He revealed that even before fame, he had always envisioned a future in the United States, particularly in California.
“Before I travelled, Los Angeles was a place I liked. Even when I was with my friends, I told them that I was going to leave this country and go to California.”
“So, I did not overthink it. When I got to California, I was just like, bro, I will be here. Let me just live my dream, mehn,” he said.
Now a global star, Asake’s reflections highlight how moments of uncertainty can eventually lead to breakthroughs, reinforcing his journey from struggle to international success.
“ Before I travelled to LA 🇺🇸 I have always liked LA, I use to joke within my friend group all the time that I’ll soon run away from Nigeria, right now in Lagos i have 5 cars”
– Asake on Korty Eo filmaking interview pic.twitter.com/CCfUYpOYA2
— ThatOjoBoy (@ThatOjoBoy) March 18, 2026