Crayon Reveals Drug Addiction and Depression Struggles
Nigerian singer Charles Chibueze Chukwu, popularly known as Crayon, has opened up about his painful experiences with drug addiction and depression while trying to establish himself in the Nigerian music industry. https://x.com/xchiefv/status/2118411994654994915?utm
The singer’s revelations highlight the mental and emotional pressure he faced when his early music releases failed to achieve the success he had expected. He also discussed how substance use worsened his condition and eventually led to hospitalisation.
Crayon’s experiences have renewed conversations about mental health challenges among young musicians and the pressure to achieve fame and commercial success in the entertainment industry.
Failed music releases affected his mental health
Crayon previously shared details of his struggles during an interview with content creator Korty EO. He explained that his difficulties became more serious after he released several songs that failed to attract the attention he expected.
According to the singer, he released his first extended play in 2019 and followed it with about six songs in 2020. However, the projects did not achieve the breakthrough he had hoped for.
The disappointing results affected his confidence and made him question his abilities as a musician. He also recalled approaching Mavin Records boss Don Jazzy in tears because he was struggling to understand why his music was not gaining attention.
The singer said the experience made him doubt himself and contributed to a difficult period in his life.
Crayon reveals past drug addiction
During the interview, Crayon disclosed that he turned to different substances during his struggles. He mentioned using Tramadol, Codeine, Emzolyn, Refinol and marijuana.
He also described a mixture known as skuchies, which he said combined several substances.
The singer explained that he eventually became concerned about the dangers of substance abuse after a friend nearly lost his life following an excessive dose of Tramadol.
That incident encouraged him to reconsider his lifestyle and seek support from people around him.
Crayon’s account also showed how substance use and emotional distress became connected during a period when he was struggling to cope with disappointment and pressure.
Rema and Mavin colleagues supported him
The singer recalled an incident at a beach party where his behaviour became unusual and his manager became concerned about his condition.
After returning home, he contacted fellow singer Rema. His situation later became more serious when he walked barefoot to Mavin Studios, where he sat outside the premises and expressed frustration with his life.
He also recalled removing his shirt and smashing his phone on the ground.
Rema reportedly rushed to the studio after receiving information about his condition. Other members of the Mavin team, including producer BabyFresh, also became involved in helping him.
Crayon said he received emotional support during the difficult period, with Rema and other colleagues playing important roles in getting him help.
Hospitalisation and recovery
Crayon revealed that his condition eventually required professional attention. He was taken to a psychiatric hospital in Lekki for treatment after experiencing severe emotional and behavioural difficulties.
He also recalled having frightening thoughts while travelling in a moving vehicle, describing how difficult it had become to control his reactions.
In another interview in April 2026, the singer discussed experiencing mental health challenges in 2022 because of pressure from his family and the music industry. He said he underwent an extended period of therapy before returning to music.
Following that difficult chapter, Crayon released songs including Labalaba and Overloading, which helped bring renewed attention to his career.
His story highlights the importance of mental health support and the need for people facing substance-related problems to seek professional help.
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