Singer and actor Rotimi shared what he called a “reset” — a conscious decision to step away from both alcohol and social media.
The move, which he described as necessary rather than symbolic, was motivated by a growing desire to realign his life with his values as a husband, father, and artist.
In a candid and down-to-earth interview with Rodney Rikai, Rotimi said, “It got to a point where I realized I wasn’t operating at 100%. There’s so much noise.
Social media became a place of comparison, not connection. And the drinking — it was more of a crutch than a celebration.”
Rotimi made it clear that his decision wasn’t prompted by scandal or rock bottom. Rather, it was a sober reflection of where he is in life and what matters most.
With a growing family and a deepening faith, he found himself increasingly drawn to stillness and focus over stimulation.
“I haven’t had a drink in a while, and I feel clear — mentally, spiritually, emotionally,” he explained. “That clarity doesn’t come easy when you’re constantly scrolling or sipping.”
Rotimi’s approach was far more personal. He spoke plainly, without dramatics or moralizing, about wanting more control over how he shows up in the world. “You don’t realize how much of your energy is leaking until you stop and assess,” he said. “And for me, social media and alcohol were two major leaks.”
Rikai, known for pulling out nuanced reflections from his guests, allowed the conversation to unfold without framing it as a rebrand or comeback. Rotimi wasn’t positioning himself as a self-help guru or reclaiming the spotlight. Instead, he sounded like someone deeply in tune with himself — quietly winning by stepping back.
His focus now, he said, is on intentional fatherhood, healthier creative rhythms, and honoring the commitments that shape his daily life. “I just want to be present,” he said. “Fully present. And I can’t do that if my mind is cluttered or I’m chasing dopamine hits.”
Rotimi’s choice reflects a broader shift many artists are making — prioritizing health and internal alignment over constant output and visibility.
Rotimi, born Olurotimi Akinosho, is a Nigerian-American actor, singer, and songwriter best known for his role as Dre in the hit series Power. Blending Afrobeats, R&B, and hip-hop, he has released several successful music projects including Walk With Me and All or Nothing.
Beyond entertainment, Rotimi is a father, husband to Tanzanian singer Vanessa Mdee, and a vocal advocate for intentional living.