Nigerian music producer turned recording artist, John Saviour Udomboso, better known as Young John, has taken the Nigerian music scene by storm with his heartfelt song, “Stronger.” The song has become a viral sensation, resonating with listeners on social media platforms as they use it for motivational and love posts.
The Hidden Message In Young John’s Stronger
Many people believe “Stronger” is a tribute to Young John’s girlfriend, Davido’s cousin Nikos, due to the affectionate lyrics:
“Aloyin l’ohun vitamin-C (one with a voice as sweet as vitamin c)
Mummy mo fi jọ, my melanin queen (I got it from my mum, my melanin queen)
Fine girl, no pimples, classy and simple”
However, the truth behind the song is far more poignant. The lyrics, filled with affectionate expressions, actually reflect Young John’s deep pain over the loss of his mother, Comfort Udomboso.
Young John’s Loss, Long Battle With Social Anxiety
In 2017, Young John’s world was shattered when his mother passed away from cancer. This devastating loss sent him into a deep depression, isolating himself from friends and colleagues. He struggled with overwhelming grief and social anxiety, a condition he had battled for most of his life.
He had twitted about his Social anxiety saying:
“most of my life, I’ve been struggling with severe “social anxiety disorder”
anyone who ever met me before can tell I was “extremely shy” and “highly introverted”
It was a real battle, I deprived myself of so much I was entitled to just because it was so hard to open my mouth!”
“…The only word easy to say was “yes”
my mum was a certified psychologist so she knew this was something bigger than “being shy”
she helped me fight this silent battle through a long period of time and I was gradually getting better until we lost her to cancer 2017″
Before his mother’s death, Young John had been hesitant to pursue a career as a recording artist, preferring to stay behind the scenes. His mother, a certified psychologist, recognized his talent and encouraged him to pursue his passion. With her support, he gradually overcame his shyness and began to share his music with the world.
He had recorded works lying around when he retreated into himself. He had stopped working on music and as a means to keep busy decided to release his works. The rest is history.
Now, as Young John basks in the success of “Stronger,” he longs for his mother to witness his achievements. The song’s lyrics express his deep regret and longing:
“Mummy, can you see me now?
Water pour down from my eye.
Many-many times I dey miss you gan-gan ni.
If to say you wait a little longer.”
Young John Finds Strength In His Loss
Despite his grief, Young John has found strength in his loss. He has transformed his pain into a powerful message of resilience, reminding listeners that what doesn’t kill you can only make you stronger. He shares his regret that his mother cannot enjoy the fruits of his success:
“What don’t kill me make me stronger.
But this one weak me, make I no lie.
Water in my eye when I think of you.
Mo ti lowo now, you for don jaiye (I am rich now, you should be enjoying life).”
Young John’s mother was more than just a family member; she was his mentor, his confidante, and his biggest supporter. He acknowledges that no other woman can ever replace her:
“I never see another woman like this.
She tell me say the world is full of jagbajantis.
Say the little light of mine.
Ọmọ, e go shine, shine, shine.”
The Video: Mirroring Young John’s Loss And Mental Battles
The video is one filled with tragedy, then hope, and more tragedy in the end. The video features Nollywood actors: Bimbo Ademoye, Emeka Nwagbaraocha and Chuks Joseph.
The cinematic video follows the life of a boy who loses his mother in a car accident. He gets adopted by his aunt and goes through life, keeping touch with his mother’s spirit through his imagination.
Things seem to go well until his aunt develops cancer and dies. It is then, during his grief, he finds out that his mother had only been with him as a figment of his imagination and wasn’t physically present throughout his life.
The video highlights the mental health challenges that can arise after such a loss, mirroring Young John’s own experiences.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, “Stronger” is more than just a popular song; it is a testament to Young John’s resilience and a heartfelt tribute to his mother. Through his music, he has shared his journey of grief and loss, inspiring others to find strength in their own struggles. We at Trickle Media hope Young John finds the closure he needs to move on.
