"I Got A Tattoo On My Neck Because I Didn't Want To Be Employed" - Singer Asake

Asake gives a bizarre bu honest reason behind his decision to have a tattoo on his neck.

 The Impact of Neck Tattoos on Employment Opportunities: Insights from Asake

In a recent interview with GQ, Asake shed light on the significant repercussions of acquiring a neck tattoo, emphasizing its implications on securing employment prospects. 

Asake, a prominent singer, disclosed that his decision to adorn his neck with a conspicuous tattoo, featuring all five of his stage name, marked a pivotal moment that potentially hindered his ability to pursue traditional job opportunities.

The Stigma Surrounding Neck Tattoos in Nigeria

Addressing the societal norms in Nigeria, Asake underscored the stark reality faced by individuals with neck tattoos, stating, "In Nigeria, if you have a tattoo on your neck, you can't work anywhere. I can't work for any company. I can't sell anything." 

This assertion highlights the prevailing stigma and discriminatory practices against individuals with visible tattoos, particularly those situated in prominent areas like the neck.

The Decision Amidst Adversity

Reflecting on the circumstances surrounding his decision to get the tattoo, Asake recounted a period characterized by despondency and uncertainty. "I was tired," he reminisced. "I felt like, I don't want to keep trying." Amidst these feelings of disillusionment, Asake opted for a radical choice: to permanently mark his neck with a tattoo, thereby closing off alternative avenues for himself.

The Journey to Success

Despite the challenges posed by his tattoo, Asake emphasized the importance of relentless perseverance and hard work in achieving success.

 "The second step is just working really, really hard," he emphasized. "You have to understand: I got there in two years, but I've been working for years." 

This sentiment underscores the arduous journey undertaken by individuals striving for success, often overshadowed by society's fixation on visible milestones rather than the years of dedication and effort invested behind the scenes. 

Asake aptly summarized this sentiment, stating, "People are counting the days you're successful. They don't count the days you've been working toward it. Nobody gives a f3ck about that." 

This candid remark serves as a poignant reminder of the unrecognized toil and perseverance that underpin achievement.