The Weeknd admits ‘drugs were a crutch for him’

Singer The Weeknd has spoken out about his “dark” past and once “heavy” drug use while making music.

Shedding light on the early days of his career, the two-time Grammy winner said that he often turned to destructive vices when he hit the recording studio, reported The Guardian.

“When I had nothing to do but make music, it was very heavy. Drugs were a crutch for me. There were songs on my first record (House of Balloons) that were seven minutes long, rambling whatever thoughts I was having when I was under the influence at the time,” he said.

To overcome his creative block, The Weeknd said he turned, once again, to drugs to jumpstart the writing process.

“I’ll be completely honest with you. The past couple of albums, I do get back to that. Even on this new album. You have writer’s block. And sometimes you’re like, I can’t do this sober.

“I had to get that little jump. And the ball started rolling. And then I didn’t need it anymore... Right now, I feel in control. Where it takes me after, I don’t know,” he said.

Earlier this year, he canceled his supporting act on Rihanna’s Anti World Tour to write ‘Starboy’, which was released on November 25.

“I canceled it and something happened to my inspiration. I guess it was the weight on my shoulders. I’d canceled a tour a lot of money. I had these ideas, but I couldn’t put them on wax.”