Huge Sean is opening up about a period of profound personal struggle following the 2019 death of Nipsey Hussle, revealing a “very deep” battle with depression that prompted him to step away from music and prioritize his mental health. The Detroit-born rapper, known for hits like “Bounce Back” and “Deep Reverence,” shared his experience in an upcoming interview with Usher for ABC News’ All Access with Linsey Davis, highlighting the stigma surrounding mental health within the Black community and the courage it took to seek help.
The conversation, previewed by Rolling Stone and Complex, underscores a growing willingness among artists to discuss mental wellbeing, challenging long-held cultural norms. Sean’s vulnerability comes as more public figures advocate for accessible mental healthcare and destigmatize seeking therapy, particularly within communities where these conversations have historically been less common.
In the interview, Sean explained that he didn’t initially set out to become an advocate for mental health awareness. “I was just sharing what was going on in my life,” he said. “I didn’t realize that I was being so vulnerable. I wasn’t trying to be a spokesperson for mental health per se,” he added, emphasizing that he was simply expressing his personal experience with therapy and the “heavy ups and downs” of depression.
The loss of Nipsey Hussle, a close friend and collaborator, proved to be a pivotal moment. Sean described feeling as though he “hit a wall,” facing a choice between overcoming the challenge or being overwhelmed by it. “I had to take time away from the music industry being my first obligation, and I had to put myself first,” he stated. This decision led to a four-year period between the release of his 2020 album, Detroit 2, and his most recent LP, Better Me Than You.
Sean’s experience reflects a broader conversation about the pressures faced by artists and the importance of prioritizing personal wellbeing over professional demands. He revealed that he had become disconnected from himself, losing touch with his passions and interests while focusing solely on his career. This realization contributed to a deeper level of depression than he had experienced in his teenage years.
The rapper as well spoke about the importance of rediscovering himself during his time away from the spotlight. “I didn’t even realize what I liked anymore. I didn’t even know what I was into anymore,” he admitted. He emphasized the need to “take time to have fun,” recognizing that life is finite and that enjoying the present moment is crucial.
This period of self-reflection wasn’t solely about addressing his mental health; it was also about reaffirming his faith, according to reports. Sean’s journey highlights the multifaceted nature of healing and the importance of finding personalized strategies for coping with adversity.
The full interview with Big Sean and Usher is scheduled to stream tonight on ABC News Live Prime with Linsey Davis at 7pm ET, offering a deeper dive into Sean’s experiences and perspectives on mental health, grief, and the importance of self-care. The conversation promises to be a candid and insightful exploration of these critical issues, potentially resonating with audiences who have faced similar challenges.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please reach out for help. You can contact the National Crisis and Suicide Lifeline by calling or texting 988 in the US and Canada, or by dialing 111 in the UK. These services are available 24/7, free, and confidential.
Listeners can expect further insights into Sean’s journey and the broader conversation surrounding mental health in the Black community when the full interview airs. The discussion is expected to shed light on the challenges and triumphs of seeking help and prioritizing wellbeing in a demanding industry.
