Rizzle Kicks star on drug abuse amid music comeback

Jordan Stephens, one half of the popular hip-hop duo Rizzle Kicks, has opened up about his difficult journey with drug addiction, the pressures of fame, and the grief he has experienced. In a recent interview, he shared how his struggles with drugs played a significant role in the breakup of the group. Rizzle Kicks, which formed in Brighton in 2008, achieved great success with their debut album, Stereo Typical, which sold over 600,000 copies. However, personal challenges between Jordan and his bandmate, Harley Alexander-Sule, led to a long hiatus that lasted eight years. Jordan explained, 'During that time, Harley developed severe anxiety about performing, and I fell into drug addiction. ' Now at 32 years old, Jordan has written a memoir titled Avoidance, Drugs, Heartbreak & Dogs, where he candidly discusses his battles with addiction, fame, grief, and self-harm. He reflected on the intense pressure they faced at the height of their fame, saying, 'The pressure was unbelievable, and it pushed me and Harley apart. ' Despite the challenges, both Jordan and Harley have made significant changes in their lives during their time apart. Harley has become a father to two beautiful children, and Jordan has embraced sobriety. They have reconnected and are now closer than ever. Rizzle Kicks is known for their catchy hits like Down With the Trumpets and Mama Do the Hump. Jordan described his 20s as a 'whirlwind' filled with ups and downs, and he emphasized the importance of having a support system when pursuing fame. He advised, 'It can be damaging to chase fame without the right support. ' Jordan also acknowledged that every high comes with a cost, stating, 'You don’t feel grief less intensely just because you’re well off. ' He has taken steps to heal from his past by exploring emotional trauma retreats and seeking therapy. In May of this year, Rizzle Kicks announced their reunion and released a new single called Javelin. For those who may be struggling with similar issues, there are resources available for help and support. People can follow BBC Sussex on social media or share their stories to connect with others.