Celebrated Ghanaian Afro-dancehall star Livingstone Etse Satekla, popularly known as Stonebwoy, has shed light on the often-overlooked emotional and psychological responsibilities that come with marriage, stating firmly that “marriage is expensive,” not only in financial terms but in personal commitment as well.
The multiple award-winning artist, known for blending social consciousness with rhythmic soundscapes, made the heartfelt remarks during an appearance on Joy Prime TV. In a deeply introspective conversation, Stonebwoy offered a rare glimpse into his private life and personal philosophy, drawing from his own experiences as a husband and a father.
“Interestingly, marriage is expensive, and having a wife comes with its own expenses,” Stonebwoy told host Roselyn Felli. “You have to invest time, which is valuable. You need to allocate resources, which don’t come cheap. You must give attention, and attention is also costly. These are things you can’t buy.”
For Stonebwoy, whose demanding career takes him across the globe, these statements underscore the juggling act many successful men—especially those in the public eye—must perform to balance fame, work, and family life. But his comments went deeper than simply referencing the busy schedule of a top-tier performer. They touched on broader social expectations, male responsibility, and the emotional weight that often goes unnoticed in traditional marital discourse.
“As a man, I grew up in a household where I witnessed responsibility firsthand,” he said. “I understand that societal norms require men to take on caretaking roles. While it is expected of us, it’s not easy, and it certainly isn’t cheap. So, the expenses are real.”
The “Into the Future” hitmaker’s comments have sparked widespread conversations online, with many praising him for articulating a reality often ignored in public discussions about relationships—especially in the African context, where cultural expectations can be rigid.
Stonebwoy, who has been married to Dr. Louisa Ansong since 2017, is widely admired not just for his music, but also for his devotion to family. Together, the couple shares two children and often appear in public as a unit, projecting a sense of unity and shared purpose. His relationship has been cited by many fans as a modern model of balance between celebrity life and domestic commitment.
During the interview, Stonebwoy stressed that many people erroneously equate the cost of marriage solely with monetary expenses—such as bride price, wedding ceremonies, or maintaining a home. While those are significant, he believes the true demands of marriage are more profound and intangible.
“People think the cost of marriage is just about paying bills and taking care of your wife materially. But what they don’t see is how much of yourself you have to give. Your time, your peace, your mental space—it’s a huge commitment,” he explained.
“Even when I’m on the road touring or in the studio working on new material, I must be available to my family. You can’t just switch off. The commitment is lifelong.”
The “Therapy” singer also emphasized the importance of emotional maturity before entering into marriage. According to him, readiness for marriage has little to do with age or wealth and everything to do with one’s capacity to handle the weight of responsibility.
“You could be 30 and not be ready. You could have all the money in the world but still not be prepared for what marriage demands. That’s why many marriages fail—it’s not because people don’t love each other, but because they’re not ready for the selflessness it takes,” he said.
Stonebwoy’s remarks come at a time when conversations around modern relationships, gender roles, and marital expectations are evolving. With rising divorce rates and shifting cultural attitudes, especially among African millennials and Gen Z, his reflections offer a timely reminder that successful marriages are built on more than financial strength—they require emotional intelligence, patience, and personal sacrifice.
Reacting to the interview, several fans took to social media to applaud Stonebwoy for “keeping it real” and offering a nuanced perspective on what it means to be a man in today’s society. One user commented, “He just said what many men are thinking but can’t express. Marriage is a full-time job.” Another added, “Stonebwoy is not just a musician, he’s a role model. More men need to speak like this.”
Meanwhile, family values have been a recurring theme in Stonebwoy’s music and public life. From philanthropic work with the Livingstone Foundation to supporting education and youth development, the musician has consistently positioned himself as a socially conscious figure who sees success as a platform for influence.
When asked whether his fame has made it easier or harder to navigate married life, Stonebwoy responded with a smile, saying, “Fame makes everything louder—your wins and your mistakes. But I’m blessed to have a supportive wife who understands what I do. We’re a team.”
Stonebwoy’s message is clear: marriage is not a destination, but a daily journey that demands consistent effort, unwavering respect, and deep personal investment. For him, love is not just about grand gestures, but the everyday choices that demonstrate care, resilience, and mutual understanding.
As the conversation around marriage and relationships continues to evolve, Stonebwoy’s candid reflections stand out as a valuable contribution—reminding both men and women that the most meaningful things in life come at a price that goes beyond money.
With his voice resonating not just on stage but in societal discourse, Stonebwoy proves once again why he remains one of Ghana’s most admired and influential voices—both musically and morally.
