Hooked on a Hook: The Soundtrack of Substance Use

The music industry is nothing short of fame, money, power, and influence. Once a star rises to popularity, these key attributes are granted to them from their dearly beloved fans, and the drastic help of social media to enhance their profile. It is arguable that the industry is primarily responsible for influencing much of our lives in aspects of fashion, slang, lifestyle, and drugs…? Yes, even drugs. As subtle as some artists may hide it (if at all), it is no secret that a significant amount of our favorite artists partake in illicit and or recreational drug use which poses a danger to the young fans that look up to them. The question lies: Are these stars to blame? Is it the industry? Is it simply just a cultural norm?

Many people look up to big artists like Taylor Swift, Playboi Carti, Kanye West, and many more, for inspiration. Over time, music gurus have begun to associate the persona one obtains, to the various or single artists they listen to as different fan bases carry a wide range of individual identities. For example, fans of Taylor Swift are widely known as “Swifties,” who constantly stay engaged, have passions for finding ‘easter eggs’ within her platforms and songs, and are the sweetest supporters. On another hand, fans of Playboi Carti are associated with the word “Opium” or “VAMPS,” with Opium being the name of the famous artists’ record label, and VAMPS referring to adamant Carti listeners who are typically described as mysterious, rebellious, and edgy. These are just a few examples of the range of influences artists carry to their fans.

As it is evident, there is more to the artist than the distinct vibes they carry, and the clothes they wear. Arguments surrounding drugs within music surface between promoting it, while some claim it is part of human experience and that it reflects real issues of society.

Is it just to hold artists responsible for the upbringing of drugs within the youth? Of course these singers and rappers are mostly adults who are of age and can legally participate in this activity. However, it has been speculated that the act of openly smoking and usage of drugs on behalf of artists, are linked to a significant portion of underage drug-users. How many times have you been listening to songs, and the lyrics involve things of “percs,” “promethazine,” “high,” “codeine” just to name a few. Popular artists such as Future, Lil Xan, Juice Wrld are notorious for singing songs involving multiple types of drugs. In fact, Juice Wrld sadly passed in 2019 due to a drug overdose. This is just an example of potential risk young viewers may fall towards considering these artists’ music might be their favorite songs.

Similarly, the famous Snoop Dog is widely known for his ability to smoke a hefty amount of marjuana on a daily basis. Although it may seem that it is just music culture and it is no harm, young viewers might see him as inspiration and be encouraged to participate in the same activities. What is the fine line between what is promoting drugs to the public, and what is simply “music culture?”