Beyond the spotlight / Mental Health Awareness Among Musicians
The music industry is often portrayed as a world of glitz, glamour, creativity, and endless opportunities. However, beneath the surface of the spotlight lies a reality that many musicians grapple with—intense mental health challenges. The pressures of the music industry, combined with the personal struggles that many artists face, have made mental health awareness an urgent topic within the field.
This article opens the door to exploring the factors contributing to mental health issues among musicians by examining the stigma surrounding these struggles. It highlights resources and initiatives to foster mental well-being in the industry. We will also incorporate some of my personal stories from touring and reflect on the lessons from tragedies like Avicii's.
The Unique Pressures of the Music Industry
The life of a DJ/producer/musician may appear idyllic, but now more than ever, it's riddled with challenges that can weigh heavily on mental health. Yet, it's important to remember the resilience and strength many musicians demonstrate in these challenges.
1. Financial Instability and Uncertainty
For many musicians, particularly independent ones, income is unpredictable. Gigs are inconsistent, royalties are often delayed, and streaming revenue can be meagre. For creatives like me, whose artistic journey spans decades, balancing artistic integrity with financial realities has been a persistent challenge. This economic strain has often triggered anxiety and bouts of depression.
2. The Toll of Touring
In my late twenties, after a decade as a professional DJ with residencies in Dublin, Belfast, Cork and Galway, I found touring and the expectations rather gruelling. With long hours, erratic schedules, travelling, and extended time away from loved ones, I retired from the nightclub/festival scene by age thirty, feeling burnt out and disenchanted with the opportunities in the scene. While releasing music, promoting it, and touring up and down the country may seem glamorous, artists often experience frustration, loneliness, isolation, and exhaustion. One such pivotal moment came when I was invited to play alongside Prince in Dublin just after I made my Creamfields debut. At the time, I was at a crossroads in my career, feeling both burnt out and inspired by the potential of what could still lie ahead. The opportunity to share the stage with someone as legendary as Prince was surreal. The energy was palpable, and I felt the excitement that only such an iconic figure could provoke. However, as the night unfolded, the outcome was far from what I had envisioned. I can recall how prolonged stretches on the road made it difficult to maintain a routine or find moments of rest—a common experience for DJs and musicians worldwide, leading to fatigue. Prince, as was his style, captivated the audience with a powerful hour-long poetry recital. While his performance was undoubtedly magnetic, it left me with an overwhelming disappointment. When it was my turn to follow him, the crowd had already thinned out, with many leaving the venue before I began my set. That experience hit me hard. The loneliness and the silence in the aftermath starkly contrasted with the euphoria I had expected. It led me into a depressive state, making me question my place in the industry and the nature of the business itself.
At Twenty-Eight, I decided to start a record label called Omnis Recordings. After 5 years of many successful releases played by legends such as Laurent Garnier, DeadMau5, Carl Cox, and Sasha and an award for Best Record Label in Ireland, I returned to education. I enrolled in Berklee's Online Masters in Sound Production and Music Technology. I decided to improve my awareness of what went into making a great sound recording and share it with the next generation of Irish talent. Despite the emotional aftermath, I still wrestled with my emotions daily; when I look back on moments like this, it became a turning point. It reinforced the need to reevaluate my approach to my love for music, find meaning beyond performing, the applause and the crowd, and ultimately redefine my relationship with music. Playing with Prince was a humbling experience that shattered illusions but paved the way for a more grounded understanding of what it means to be an artist. That disappointment, in hindsight, pushed me to step away from the whirlwind of touring, seek fulfilment elsewhere, and ultimately return to my roots in music recording, which turned into coaching and later a 2-year mentorship at Berklee.
3. Performance Pressure
Over the years, the demand for close to perfection during live performances or recordings amplifies stress; it also gives confidence when personal levels are being met. Performance anxiety and criticism can leave some artists like me feeling vulnerable. Avicii, a globally renowned DJ and producer, openly struggled with these pressures, revealing how the need to deliver flawless performances led to severe anxiety and burnout. His tragic passing in 2018 was a wake-up call for the music industry.
"Over the years, the demand for near-perfection in live performances and studio recordings has been a defining challenge in my career. While meeting these standards can be empowering, the unrelenting pressure often amplifies stress, leaving artists like me exposed and vulnerable. Beyond the technical demands, there's the constant balancing act of artistic expression, public expectations, and personal well-being—a tightrope that few navigate without scars.
Avicii, one of the most celebrated electronic music figures, exemplified this reality's darker side. His meteoric rise as a pop music producer brought relentless scrutiny, gruelling schedules, and a suffocating need to meet ever-escalating expectations. Behind the scenes, he grappled with profound struggles, including substance abuse, physical health challenges, and mental anguish. His tragic passing in 2018 wasn’t just a wake-up call for the music industry—it was a stark reminder of the human cost behind pursuing perfection in an industry that prioritizes output over well-being. Avicii’s story resonates intensely, serving as a sombre reflection of the need for greater compassion, understanding, and systemic change in how we support artists.
Many artists have faced similar challenges throughout the electronic music scene, navigating the pressures of fame and relentless schedules. Keith Flint of The Prodigy, with his dynamic stage presence, tragically battled depression and substance abuse, culminating in his untimely death in 2019. Deadmau5 has also been candid about his struggles with depression and the mental toll of maintaining his persona amidst a competitive industry. Similarly, Skrillex experienced burnout from years of constant touring, taking a step back to prioritize his mental health before returning to music on his terms. Paul van Dyk, whom I worked with in the 1990s while promoting his hit track "For an Angel" and “Seven Ways” album on the Deviant label—an effort that reached No. 24 on the Irish charts—faced a near-fatal stage accident in 2016. His journey through physical recovery and psychological trauma underscored the unseen vulnerabilities of even the most seasoned performers. Meanwhile, dubstep pioneer Benga stepped away from music after being diagnosed with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, later using his platform to raise awareness about mental health challenges in the industry. These stories reveal a shared thread of resilience amidst adversity, highlighting the need for more significant support and openness in electronic music.
4. Social Media's Double-Edged Sword
Social media has undoubtedly provided musicians with an unprecedented platform to connect with their audience, but it comes with its own challenges. The constant scrutiny and the pressure to maintain a polished, curated persona can amplify feelings of inadequacy and lead to harmful self-comparisons. For many artists, including myself, navigating these platforms while striving to stay authentic feels like a tightrope. As an introvert, I’ve often found it challenging to reconcile the need for visibility with my discomfort in the spotlight. I cringe when I hear myself on recordings or see videos of my performances, a reaction that often makes me question my creative output. This inner conflict—a mix of vulnerability, self-doubt, and the weight of external expectations—can stifle creativity and create additional barriers in an already demanding industry.
Stigma and Silence: Breaking the Taboo
For years, mental health struggles in the music industry have been shrouded in stigma. Artists feared being seen as "weak" or jeopardizing their careers by speaking out. This silence often led to feelings of isolation.
However, the industry has slowly started to change. High-profile musicians like Lady Gaga, Kendrick Lamar, and others have opened up about their mental health battles, helping to dismantle the stigma. My Emotional Alchemy project merges music and visual art to explore themes of mental health, aiming to raise awareness and create a space for open dialogue. It reflects my shift towards vulnerability, mindfulness, and relaxation, offering an avenue for expression and introspection. Through this work, I seek to foster a deeper connection to our inner worlds and encourage more open conversations around mental well-being.
Support Systems: Labels, Managers, and Community
A musician's immediate support network—whether through record labels, management, or peer connections—is essential in maintaining mental well-being. The demanding nature of the music industry makes these relationships crucial for fostering a healthier, more sustainable career.
Record Labels and Mental Health Initiatives
Some record labels are beginning to address artists' mental health challenges by offering tangible resources and initiatives. For example, my Label Bakroom has partnered with Howellness, a mental health organisation, to provide sessions for artists and staff, recognising the toll of touring and creative deadlines. Similarly, independent labels such as Erased Tapes have built reputations for prioritising their artists' well-being, offering flexibility in release schedules and allowing for a more human-centred approach to production. These measures acknowledge that the creative process thrives when artists are supported, not pushed to their limits.
Managers Advocating for Boundaries
The role of a manager extends beyond career strategy; they are often gatekeepers to an artist's mental well-being. A manager who enforces boundaries—such as limiting back-to-back tours or advocating for more reasonable schedules—can be a lifeline. Reflecting on my own career, I can attest to how a manager's understanding of the need for rest and personal time allowed me to maintain my creative output without reaching the brink of burnout. For example, when promoting Paul Van Dyk's For an Angel in the late 1990s, working alongside Rob Deacon of Deviant Records, I observed firsthand how structured, balanced management enabled artists to focus on their craft without exhaustion or pressure. Deviant Records, known for its releases from The Orb, Spooky, and Humate, was committed to creating an environment where the artist's mental and creative needs were prioritised, paving the way for lasting artistic success.
Peer Support and Community
Isolation is a common struggle for musicians, particularly during long stretches on the road or in solitary creative periods. Peer-led initiatives can counteract this sense of detachment. Collaborative projects like studio retreats or community meet-ups provide a rare space for open dialogue and mutual understanding. For example, my Emotional Alchemy project was born out of a desire to create a shared space where music and visual art could address themes of mental health. Engaging with other artists in this way reminded me that connection and collaboration are potent antidotes to the loneliness that often accompanies creative work.
Below is a playlist of productions I was hired to promote by record companies. One notable achievement from this time was receiving an IRMA Award in 2000 for promoting a release that reached number 1 in the Irish charts.
Stories That Resonate: Lessons from Avicii and Others
Avicii's story is perhaps one of the most well-known examples of the toll the music industry can take on mental health. Behind his chart-topping hits and sold-out shows was an artist who struggled profoundly with anxiety, substance abuse, and the relentless pressure to perform. His untimely death was a stark reminder of the need for systemic change.
Similarly, my Phraktal journey highlights the importance of balancing creativity with self-care. Having spent over 30 years navigating the highs and lows of the music industry, I've channelled my experiences into art that speaks to the challenges many face. My Emotional Alchemy project, combining electronic music and visual installations, serves as a creative outlet and a platform for my mental health advocacy.
Practical Tips for Musicians
While systemic change is vital, individual musicians can take steps to protect their mental health. Here are some actionable tips:
1. Set Boundaries
Avoid overcommitting to projects or performances. Schedule regular breaks and prioritize time for rest and relaxation.
2. Seek Professional Help
Therapists and counsellors experienced in working with creative individuals can provide tailored support. Organizations like Music Minds Matter and Backline offer resources for musicians seeking help.
3. Build a Support Network
Surround yourself with trusted friends, family, and peers who can offer encouragement and understanding. Online forums and support groups for musicians can also be valuable.
4. Focus on Physical Well-Being
Exercise, proper nutrition, and sufficient sleep are crucial to mental health. Consider incorporating mindfulness practices, like meditation or journaling, into your routine.
5. Use Technology Mindfully
While social media can be a powerful tool, set boundaries to avoid burnout. Designate times for online engagement and prioritize face-to-face interactions.
Resources and Initiatives
Several organizations are working to address mental health challenges in the music industry:
Music Minds Matter: A 24/7 support line offering tailored advice and resources for musicians.
Backline: Connecting artists with mental health professionals and wellness programs.
Touring Health Research Initiative: Conducting studies on the psychological and physical health impacts of touring.
Mind Your Music: A campaign advocating for greater mental health awareness in the industry.
Building a Culture of Mental Wellness
The music industry must prioritize mental health as part of its culture. Education, open dialogue, and systemic change are necessary and achievable. They can ensure artists not only survive but thrive. For musicians like Phraktal and others, creating spaces to express vulnerability and find support is a step toward sustaining the creativity that makes their work resonate.
By addressing mental health openly and compassionately, the industry can break the silence and create an environment where artists can achieve true harmony—both on and off the stage.
Words and Artwork by Christian Boshell / Phraktal / Emotional Alchemy
