Drugs and music are historically linked together, especially as jazz and rock-and-roll came onto the scene. From the public’s perspective, it seems like every musician has some sort of drinking or drug problem. Although there are some struggling artists, not every musician has these issues. Take a close look at the realities of being a musician today.
Mental Issues Involved
Many musicians are creatively rich because their minds have mental issues. Depression, bipolar disorder and many other psychological issues often drive musicians to drink or take drugs. At times, the music seems to be better when they’re inebriated. Although many talented people have psychological hurdles, that doesn’t make them automatic addicts. A few drinks at the end of the night might be a way to unwind from a gig. Responsible use of legal drugs doesn’t equate to a problematic situation.
Understanding the Job
A fantasy world surrounding the music industry isn’t the norm anymore. Being a musician is a real job. You need to have a sober mind in order to perform with accuracy and heart. Because many professionals see music as their jobs, they treat the career with respect. They actively avoid drugs and drinking so that they can keep clear minds for the next, creative session.
The Travel Factor
When you think about musicians, chauffeured limousines and tour buses might come to mind. This scenario isn’t always correct, however. Professionals, like those at Hart Law Offices, PC, know that many musicians simply drive themselves to local gigs. They can’t have a drug or drinking problem because that would mean they’d drive under the influence. Professionals understand that drinking and driving can end their careers in only one night. With that fact in mind, they stay sober for most of their careers.
Remembering History
There have been amazing musicians in the past who were lost to addictions very early in life. Today’s professionals understand the realities of these historic losses. They don’t want to miss out on life or leave their families too soon. These sobering thoughts keep many musicians on a clean pathway. Some celebratory drinking might be part of the workweek, but outright addiction is avoided. Today’s musicians want to keep playing their tunes well into the senior years.
The music industry still has a dark side to its tempting lifestyle, but musicians are finding safe ways to create music without drugs or drinking involved. They simply need strong willpower and supportive colleagues to continue their creative process as music flows from their minds and into their instruments.
