British music icon Sir Elton John has reignited the marijuana legalization debate in North America with a sharp criticism of the current policies.
In a interview with a prominent magazine, the legendary musician shared his firm opposition, labelling marijuana legalization in the United States and Canada as “one of the greatest mistakes of all time.”
“I maintain that it’s addictive,” John said. “It leads to other drugs. And when you’re stoned – and I’ve been stoned – you don’t think normally.” His words have stirred both supporters and critics of marijuana reform.
Over the past decade, marijuana legalization has gained significant traction across North America. In the U.S, more than 20 states have approved marijuana for recreational use, with even more permitting it for medical purposes. While cannabis remains illegal at the federal level, recent proposals by the Justice Department suggest reclassifying the drug, signalling potential changes ahead.
In Canada, marijuana has been fully legalised for both recreational and medical use since October 2018. The policy shift was celebrated as a progressive step by advocates, but it has also drawn snide remarks from those who share John’s concerns.
John’s perspective on the issue stems from his battle with addiction. Since 1990, he has spoken openly about the toll substance abuse took on his life. “You make terrible decisions on drugs,” he admitted, recalling his struggles.
In the interview, he described how addiction strained his relationships and clouded his judgment. “I wanted love so badly, I’d just take hostages. I’d see someone I liked, spend months together, and then they’d resent me because they had nothing in their life apart from me,” he shared. “It really upsets me, thinking back on how many people I probably hurt.”
John’s honesty about his past serves as a cautionary tale, reinforcing his belief in the dangers of marijuana and other substances.
John’s remarks have added fuel to an already polarizing debate. Supporters of legalization argue that marijuana can be regulated safely and provide medical benefits, while opponents worry about addiction and societal impact.
Critics of John’s stance point out that his experiences with addiction involved harder drugs, making marijuana a less comparable target. Meanwhile, his supporters applaud his willingness to speak candidly about his views and past struggles.
Despite the controversy, John remains a revered figure in the music world. Recently named Time’s Icon of the Year, he continues to inspire both fans and fellow artists.
Pop star Dua Lipa, who collaborated with John on the hit song Cold Heart, expressed admiration for his influence. “Singing alongside one of my musical heroes was a no-brainer,” she said. “His music has been a soundtrack to my life.”
Breakout artist Chappell Roan also praised John for his mentorship. Calling him “one of the original queens,” Roan recounted his advice during a career slump: “The songs will come. He just had to let them come to him. That’s a good reminder for all of us.”
As the debate over marijuana legalization continues, Sir Elton John’s voice adds a compelling dimension to the conversation. His candid reflections, shaped by decades of personal and professional experiences, highlight the complexities of drug policy and its far-reaching impact.
While opinions may differ, one thing remains clear: Elton John’s influence extends far beyond music, sparking discussions that challenge societal norms and encourage deeper reflection.
