Christopher “Kid” Reid, one half of iconic 90’s rap duo Kid ‘N Play, has entered a new era of his life. “New year, new heart, new vibration,” he said.

The entertainer revealed on “Good Morning America” that he was diagnosed with congestive heart failure last July after dismissing symptoms like fatigue and shortness of breath. “I started to feel a little bit more fatigued than before,” Reid explained. “And then when you feel that shortness of breath, sleeping a lot more than normal. And I think sometimes you kind of just chalk it up to, ‘I’m getting older, the road is harsh.’"

When medication didn’t improve his condition, and tests showed his organs were being affected, doctors moved quickly — and within days, he was placed on the transplant list as doctors informed the rapper that a transplant was his only option. Cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Laura Dichiacchio, one of Reid's doctors, told "GMA" that Reid was placed on the transplant waiting list because it was "a kind of life or death situation."

A compatible donor heart came through nine days later, and Reid underwent surgery. He’s now recovering and grateful for the second chance. “I intend to respect it and really live life to the fullest,” Reid shared.

Reid described the experience as life-changing and said the transplant has given him a renewed perspective. He told “GMA” he wants to use his story to encourage people, especially in communities of color that face higher cardiovascular risk, to get checked and take symptoms seriously. Reid also said he plans to lean into new projects while prioritizing his health. 

"This thing is ... a beautiful life. It's great. And, you know, I wanna be around for it,” Reid said.