The dazzling world of music often conceals a darker reality—substance abuse. In a candid conversation, Bollywood’s beloved singer Shaan shed light on the rampant use of drugs and alcohol in the industry. Speaking on Ranveer Allahbadia’s podcast, Shaan opened up about his experiences and the pressures that artists face, urging musicians to resist relying on substances as a crutch for creativity.
Substance Abuse: A Temporary High, A Long-Term Trap
Shaan, known for his soulful voice and chart-topping hits, revealed the reality of substance use in creative fields, acknowledging how some artists turn to it to heighten their performance. However, he issued a firm warning against this dangerous practice. “I’ve experienced it, so I know what you are talking about. But don’t do it in depression and don’t do it for an advantage,” Shaan emphasized. “You shouldn’t be doing anything that becomes like a crutch.”
Though some may experience a temporary boost in creativity, Shaan stressed that, in the long run, substance abuse is detrimental. “You start feeling like it’s helping, but you are actually burning your grey cells. It’s injurious,” he explained, adding that relying on drugs and alcohol not only hampers creativity but can lead to a creative block where you can’t function without them.
The Athlete Analogy: Music Without Substances
Drawing an analogy to athletes, Shaan pointed out that just as athletes aren’t allowed to compete while on performance-enhancing drugs, musicians shouldn’t rely on substances to perform either. “Do it on your merit, why do it before a show?” he asked. The industry veteran highlighted that talent should come from within, not from artificial stimulants.
While Shaan admitted to having tried substances like bhaang during Holi, he stressed that using such substances regularly to fuel creativity can severely impact long-term health and talent.
Alcohol and Music: The Emotional Trap
On a lighter note, Shaan discussed the use of alcohol in the industry, joking about how many musicians believe it enhances their emotional expression. “When you sing after one drink, woh kamaal hota hai. After two drinks, the emotional quotient of your singing heightens even more,” he laughed. However, the humor faded as he added a warning: “After four drinks, only you are singing, no one is listening.”
Shaan’s observations, while lighthearted, draw attention to how alcohol can seem to improve performance temporarily but ultimately leads to a decline in quality.
A Message to Aspiring Musicians: Don’t Be Handicapped by Substances
Shaan’s message was clear: relying on substances for creativity is a dangerous trap that artists should avoid at all costs. He urged young, aspiring musicians to trust in their natural talent and avoid seeking shortcuts through drugs and alcohol. “In the long run, it’s not good. You can’t think without it. Imagine the handicap,” he said. “You know doing it is not going to help your health, so why do it?”
His words serve as a powerful reminder that while substance abuse may offer fleeting highs, it ultimately undermines talent and jeopardizes one’s health. Shaan’s message comes as a wake-up call to the music industry, encouraging artists to stay grounded, embrace their natural talent, and make responsible choices.