Rush guitarist Alex Lifeson recently made the decision to stop using cannabis ahead of the band’s upcoming reunion tour, citing concerns about his mental clarity and focus. The musician, who had previously joked about using marijuana to write most of his complex musical compositions over several decades, felt the substance was interfering with his ability to concentrate during this crucial period of preparation.
Lifeson is far from alone among prominent musicians who have publicly discussed quitting cannabis. Willie Nelson claimed to have stopped smoking in 2019 due to lung damage, though he clarified he still uses other cannabis consumption methods. His son Lukas Nelson made a more complete break from the substance around 2023. Paul McCartney announced in 2012 that he had quit after decades of use, attributing his decision to increased personal responsibility. Miley Cyrus has made multiple announcements about stepping back from cannabis, most recently in 2025 when she declared full sobriety was central to her life.
Not all celebrity claims about quitting have proven genuine or permanent. Snoop Dogg’s 2023 announcement turned out to be a promotional stunt for a fireplace company. Justin Bieber stated in 2020 that he had stopped using the drug but was reportedly smoking again by 2025. McCartney’s own claims have been questioned by paparazzi photos and celebrity accounts suggesting continued use.
Originally reported by Rollingstone →
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