Former Gengetone artist Shalkido, previously part of the music group Sailors Gang, has revealed the personal and financial struggles he faced after the group disbanded. Despite earlier fame and success, Shalkido admitted that poor financial planning and unforeseen challenges left him in a vulnerable position, prompting public appeals for support.
Challenges After Sailors Gang
Shalkido explained that life took a difficult turn after Sailors Gang, which rose to prominence during the Gengetone craze, went their separate ways. “We assumed the money would keep flowing endlessly,” he admitted. When the group split, he found himself financially strained and struggling to provide for his young family.
Desperate to make ends meet, Shalkido tried various hustles, including riding boda bodas and construction work, but stability remained elusive. He recounted leaving his house with just KSh 80 and boarding a matatu to an unknown town to start anew. He took a job as a watchman but was soon chased away by his employer over false accusations.
Struggles with Mental Health
These challenges pushed Shalkido to the brink of despair. He attempted suicide multiple times, including drinking poison and attempting to jump off a busy footbridge. A friend intervened unknowingly during one of these moments, preventing him from acting on his despair. Eventually, he shared his story on social media, capturing public attention and sympathy.
Support from Fellow Entertainers
Shalkido’s vulnerability resonated widely, attracting assistance from well-known figures in the entertainment industry. Comedian Eric Omondi gifted him a motorcycle, while Oga Obinna provided a fully furnished home and helped secure an ambassadorial deal. Shalkido expressed deep gratitude for their support, which gave him a lifeline during one of the darkest periods of his life.
Lessons on Financial Literacy and Reconciliation
Reflecting on his experiences, Shalkido emphasized the role of financial literacy in sustaining a career in entertainment. Mismanagement of earnings and assumptions about continuous income contributed significantly to his hardships. He also addressed a misunderstanding with fellow musician Terence Creative, clarifying and apologizing publicly after recognizing that Terence’s comments were not aimed specifically at him.
Focus on Rebuilding and Resilience
Today, Shalkido is focused on rebuilding his life and career, emphasizing resilience and the importance of support networks. His journey highlights the hidden challenges behind fame and serves as a cautionary tale about the need for mental health awareness, financial planning, and community support in the entertainment industry.
Conclusion
Shalkido’s story is a powerful reminder that even those in the public eye face personal battles. With the right support, self-reflection, and planning, recovery and growth are possible, offering inspiration to young artists navigating the pressures of fame.
