Nigerian music star May D, born Akinmayokun Awodumila, has shared candid details about his unconventional marriage and subsequent divorce from his Swedish wife during a revealing appearance on the Honest Bunch Podcast. The singer opened up about embracing the role of a house husband while maintaining his musical career in Sweden, before the relationship ultimately succumbed to the pressures of pandemic-induced separation.
The “Ile Ijo” hitmaker’s journey to Sweden began during his European tour, where the country’s creative atmosphere deeply resonated with his artistic sensibilities. May D’s connection to Sweden, however, ran deeper than music, as he had maintained a relationship with a Swedish woman since 2014, who frequently visited him in Nigeria.
During the intimate podcast conversation, May D described how his European tour’s final stop in Sweden transformed into a life-changing decision. After meeting his girlfriend’s welcoming parents and experiencing the country’s unique culture, he chose to establish roots there, securing a home and eventually marrying his long-time partner.
Breaking traditional gender roles, May D assumed primary caregiving responsibilities for their child while his wife maintained her 9-to-5 career. The singer emphasized that this arrangement wasn’t born from financial necessity, noting that his musical performances in Sweden actually generated more income than his wife’s salary. Instead, the decision stemmed from practical considerations about childcare and his desire to be present in his child’s early development.
I didn’t care about being a house husband because we had a child and I was the one taking care of the child. My wife couldn’t be working and taking care of the baby at the same time,” May D explained, challenging conventional narratives about masculinity and parental roles in Nigerian culture.
However, the couple’s relationship faced its ultimate test during the global COVID-19 pandemic when May D found himself stranded in Nigeria due to international travel restrictions. The physical separation proved insurmountable for their marriage, leading to divorce. The singer hinted at additional complexities in their relationship, though he maintained that infidelity wasn’t the primary cause of their separation.
The revelation sparked diverse reactions across social media platforms, with fans and critics offering varying perspectives on May D’s experience. While some commended his dedication to fatherhood and willingness to embrace non-traditional family roles, others questioned the impact of his decisions on his musical career. Notably, one social media user, Clemsville_world, defended the singer’s choices, stating, “Dear, you don’t have to apologize for being a present and helping father to your child.
May D’s story highlights the evolving nature of modern relationships and the challenges faced by international couples, particularly during unprecedented global crises. His experience as a house husband in Sweden while maintaining his identity as a Nigerian artist offers a unique perspective on cultural integration, gender roles, and the sacrifices often required in cross-cultural marriages.
The artist’s candid discussion also sheds light on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on international relationships, where physical separation and travel restrictions strained even the strongest bonds. His story resonates with countless couples who faced similar challenges during the global health crisis, forcing many to reevaluate their relationships and priorities.
As May D continues to navigate his career and personal life post-divorce, his openness about his experiences contributes to broader conversations about modern masculinity, international relationships, and the balance between career and family life in the entertainment industry. His story serves as a reminder that traditional roles continue to evolve, and success in relationships often requires flexibility and adaptation to changing circumstances.
