The singer-songwriter shares her struggles with hearing impairment and its impact on her music career during a podcast interview.
Singer-songwriter KT Tunstall has recently spoken candidly about her ongoing struggle with a serious health issue, specifically her hearing loss, during an episode of the Full Disclosure podcast. The musician, best known for her hit “Suddenly I See,” described her experiences to host James O’Brien, revealing how the condition has deeply impacted her life and career.
During the conversation, KT expressed the challenges she faced, likening her situation to feeling “completely underwater.” She revealed that the onset of her hearing issues began subtly, stating that there were moments when she couldn’t even hear the shower running. Over time, she realised that her hearing was deteriorating significantly. “I was struggling a little bit with people speaking on that side and I had tinnitus at that point,” she noted, indicating that these earlier symptoms were just the beginning of more severe difficulties.
While on tour in America, KT experienced what was ultimately a definitive moment in her hearing decline. “I woke up on the bus, took my ear plug out and no difference at all,” she recalled. It was at this point that she fully grasped the severity of her condition, saying, “Oh God, I was just completely underwater, and yeah, I lost my hearing.” She further shared that the loss was instantaneous and has been permanent, accompanied by persistent tinnitus, which she describes as “annoying.”
Her health problems ultimately forced her to cancel her 2021 tour plans with the 80s duo Hall and Oates. KT recognised the implications of her situation, stating, “I have to put my hearing health first,” acknowledging that her ability to continue making music depends on maintaining her hearing.
According to reports from the BBC, KT’s hearing difficulties are attributed to long-term exposure to high volumes of music without sufficient ear protection. This point highlights the potential risks that come with a career in the music industry, especially concerning hearing health.
In discussing hearing loss, the NHS provides insight into the condition, noting that while it is often associated with older adults, it is critical to seek medical advice if any issues arise, as hearing impairment can often be subtle at first. Common signs include misunderstanding speech, asking people to repeat themselves, or needing to turn up the volume significantly higher than others.
Tinnitus, described by the NHS as the perception of sound such as ringing or buzzing without an external source, may occur in one or both ears. KT’s ongoing experience serves to underline the importance of awareness around audio health, especially in high-noise environments.
KT Tunstall’s personal account sheds light on the pressures that artists face concerning their health in the music industry, emphasising the necessity for preventive measures and the accessibility of resources for those experiencing similar issues.
Source: Noah Wire Services
