Renowned artist Kid Cudi, born Scott Mescudi, candidly shares his journey through addiction and mental health struggles in his debut memoir, Cudi, released on August 12, 2023. The 320-page autobiography chronicles his experiences from a challenging childhood in Cleveland to the overwhelming pressures of fame that have defined his career.
In Cudi, the artist reflects on his rise to prominence, which began with the breakout hit “Day ’N’ Nite” and continued with the critically acclaimed album Man on the Moon: The End of Day. Although his music has often touched on themes of alienation, Cudi’s memoir delves deeper into the emotional turmoil that accompanied his success, providing readers with an unfiltered look at his life behind the scenes.
An excerpt published by GQ reveals one of the darkest nights in Cudi’s life, where he describes crawling across the floor of his Tribeca apartment, feeling high and desperate. He recalls a moment filled with despair, believing he might not survive the night and, paradoxically, feeling a sense of relief. In his words, “I couldn’t make sense of what was plaguing me. It was all happening so fast.”
Cudi discusses how fame led him to substance abuse, specifically cocaine, which he used in isolation. He notes that his increasing solitude amplified his struggles, stating, “The coke felt like a necessary countermeasure for my celebrity, but it was wreaking havoc on my life, creatively and personally.” The emotional volatility that ensued strained his relationships and hindered his creative output, pushing him further into isolation.
The memoir not only chronicles Cudi’s descent into addiction but also traces his long path toward recovery. He illustrates the aftermath of that fateful night, detailing the profound impact of his struggles on his career and personal life. The narrative is imbued with a diary-like intimacy, mirroring the emotional depth found in his most personal albums.
As Cudi shares his story, he aims to inspire others grappling with similar challenges. His openness about mental health and addiction serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing these issues, particularly within the entertainment industry, where pressures can be overwhelming. By documenting his experiences, Cudi hopes to foster understanding and empathy for those facing their own battles.
Ultimately, Cudi stands as both a testament to the artist’s resilience and a call for greater awareness regarding mental health and addiction. The memoir invites readers to engage with the complexities of life in the spotlight while recognizing the human struggle that often lies beneath the surface.
