His addiction resulted in broken relationships and a lack of productivity. Six months later, he moved back to Chicago, his hometown, and stopped using drugs. In 2006, after the death of a friend, he began abusing Vicodin, one of the most dispensed prescription painkillers in the United States. During this time, he also began misusing Xanax and other sedative medications.
However, it’s important to acknowledge the efforts made towards recovery, the success stories, support systems in place, and initiatives to promote drug-free lifestyles within the rap community. Addressing the issue of drug addiction among rappers is crucial, not only for the well-being of the individuals involved but also for the welfare of their fans and the larger community. By highlighting the dark reality of drug addiction and promoting drug-free lifestyles, the rap community can play a significant role in combating this issue. Coverage on the abuse of hard drugs in the community usually focuses on tragedy surrounding certain popular rappers rather than the lyrics and the culture they create.
Patrick Williams, 26, an independent rapper from Orange, Texas, with the stage name PatvFoo, is no stranger to addiction. The report also found that synthetic opioids, like fentanyl, are affecting opioid death rates among Black people more severely than other populations. “In terms of recovery, it has been very important for me to be a part of a recovery community, to actively be around my people because they understand me,” said Macklemore. Early in his career, he used cocaine and marijuana to cope with newfound fame and alleviate his years-long battle with anxiety and depression.
The music industry has seen its fair share of struggles with drug addiction, and rappers are no exception. Drug addiction among rappers is a prevalent issue that has affected numerous artists throughout history. The pressures Alcoholics Anonymous of fame, the fast-paced lifestyle, and the desire to cope with personal challenges have contributed to the development of drug dependency in this community. Macklemore, also known as Ben Haggerty, struggled with substance abuse, particularly addiction to prescription drugs.
The “Gangsta’s Paradise” rapper, Artis Leon Ivey Jr., tragically passed away on September 28, 2022, at the age of 59. Rolling Stone hailed him as “this generation’s Kurt Cobain,” but tragically, Lil Peep passed away due to opioid addiction shortly after celebrating his 21st birthday. At one point, Fredo himself contemplated getting some professional help to assist in weening himself off of his vices.
Lean or purple drank (known by numerous local and street names) is drug addict rappers a polysubstance drink used as a recreational drug. It is prepared by mixing prescription-grade cough or cold syrup containing an opioid drug and an anti-histamine drug with a soft drink and sometimes hard candy. Like many rappers on this list, Lil Baby struggled with a 10-year-long addiction to lean. It was only in 2018, with the death of Fredo Santana, that he was able to change his perspective and lead a healthy life.
It’s important to note that not all are involved in drug abuse, and many rappers are completely sober. However, artists have openly discussed their experiences with substance abuse in their music and public interviews over time. The reasons behind their strong dependence on alcohol and drugs are diverse.
