The spotlight found Lola Young quickly, but its glare revealed a hidden struggle. Her ascent with the hit song “Messy” was immediately shadowed by a battle with addiction, leading to two stays in rehab – a deeply personal journey unfolding on a very public stage.
The pressure mounted after her initial success, amplified by the relentless feedback of social media. A sudden collapse onstage forced a painful reckoning, and the cancellation of an entire tour. It was a moment of vulnerability that resonated with fans and fellow artists alike.
During her break from the industry, a surprising source of guidance emerged: Lily Allen. Allen, herself familiar with the challenges of substance abuse, offered a seemingly simple, yet profound piece of advice. “If anyone comes up to you wanting a photo, ask them what three songs they know of yours.”
Lola initially balked at the suggestion. The idea felt impossible, a stark reminder of the superficiality that can accompany fame. But the wisdom behind it – a way to reclaim agency and filter interactions – began to sink in.
She doesn’t dwell on the specifics of her addiction, but Lola acknowledges recovery is far from a destination. “Recovery is an ongoing process,” she recently shared. “I’m not the finished article, but I’m doing a hell of a lot better.”
Now, she’s embracing a more holistic approach to well-being, residing in a supportive facility and actively participating in Alcoholics Anonymous meetings. Protecting her peace has become paramount, a conscious decision to disconnect from the often-toxic world of online comments.
Her return to the stage at the Grammys wasn’t meticulously planned, but felt instinctively right. It was a powerful moment, a testament to her resilience after a difficult decision to step away from a tour she had eagerly anticipated.
Looking back, Lola recognizes a crucial turning point. She’s grateful for hitting a “breaking point,” as it ultimately allowed her to prioritize her health and well-being. It was a catalyst for growth, enabling her to be present for her fans, her future, and most importantly, herself.
The road hasn’t been without its setbacks. A performance at Coachella in 2025 saw her forced to leave the stage, battling nausea and the overwhelming physical effects of her struggle. She openly shared the experience on social media, a raw and honest moment of vulnerability.
Another onstage incident led to a heartbreaking announcement: the cancellation of all upcoming performances. The pain of letting her fans down was immense, but she knew she needed to prioritize her recovery.
Now, Lola is selectively returning to the stage, performing at a few carefully chosen events. She’s looking forward to Radio 1’s Biggest Weekend, a step forward on a journey defined by courage, honesty, and a commitment to lasting healing.
