BY Grace Zigah
Ghanaian dancehall icon, Stonebwoy, has lifted the lid on a topic often glossed over in celebrity circles — the multifaceted cost of marriage, especially from a man’s perspective.
In a recent appearance on Joy Prime, the award-winning artiste delved into the emotional, financial, and time-consuming responsibilities that come with being a husband and maintaining a family.
Stonebwoy, born Livingstone Etse Satekla, didn’t mince words when he described marriage as “expensive,” noting that the commitment goes far beyond lavish weddings and material support.
According to him, society has historically placed the lion’s share of responsibility on men in marriage, often without adequate recognition of the toll it takes.
“Interestingly, marriage is expensive, and having a wife comes with its own expenses. 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,” he told host Roselyn Felli.
For Stonebwoy, who recently marked his eighth wedding anniversary with his wife, Dr. Louisa Ansong, marriage has been a rewarding but demanding journey. The couple, who are parents to two children, have long been admired as a power pair in the entertainment and medical circles.
Yet, beneath the public admiration lies a daily reality of commitment and sacrifice.
In the interview, Stonebwoy touched on how his upbringing shaped his understanding of marital responsibilities.
Raised in a household where responsibility was key, the “Into the Future” hitmaker said those early lessons made him aware of what is expected from a man in a marriage — but even with that preparation, the task is no less daunting.
“As a man, I grew up in a household where I witnessed responsibility firsthand. 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,” he emphasized.
The artist’s comments have resonated widely across social media, where many praised his honesty and vulnerability.
In an era where marriage is often showcased as a flawless social media highlight reel, Stonebwoy’s reflections serve as a sobering reminder of the unseen emotional and logistical labor that underpins long-term commitment.
Stonebwoy and Dr. Louisa tied the knot in June 2017, in a high-profile ceremony that attracted the who’s who of Ghana’s entertainment industry.
Since then, their marriage has withstood the pressures of fame, touring schedules, and public scrutiny — making them a symbol of balance between career success and family stability.
