Alice Cooper, the legendary rock icon, has been making headlines with his recent statements about sobriety and the rockstar lifestyle. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the 76-year-old musician shared his perspective on how being a rocker doesn’t necessarily require indulging in alcohol or drugs. Cooper, who has been sober for an impressive 42 years, emphasized that one’s attitude and passion for music are what truly define a rocker, not substance abuse.
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The iconic musician recently collaborated with WhistlePig to launch a unique alcohol-free cocktail named the Sex, Drugs, Rock & Dry Cocktail. This initiative is not only a creative endeavour but also a charitable one, with all proceeds from the cocktail going towards Giving Kitchen, an organization that supports food service workers. Cooper explained that the concept of outsmarting whiskey, his former beverage of choice, was appealing to him as he embarked on this new venture into alcohol-free drinks.
Reflecting on his journey to sobriety, Cooper expressed gratitude for the unwavering support he received from friends who made a conscious effort to avoid alcohol around him during social gatherings. He acknowledged that his relationship with alcohol was different from those who could drink casually, as his drinking habits were all-consuming. Despite the challenges he faced, Cooper remains steadfast in his commitment to sobriety, stating that he has no desire to reintroduce alcohol or any other substance into his life.
In the early days of rock ‘n’ roll, a culture of excess often glorified alcohol and drug use among musicians. Cooper highlighted the shift in attitudes towards substance abuse within the music industry, noting that many of his fellow rockers have also embraced sobriety. Drawing parallels to his own experiences, he mentioned that even renowned figures like Johnny Depp, who is a member of the Hollywood Vampires alongside Cooper, have adopted a sober lifestyle.
During the interview with PEOPLE, Cooper reminisced about the hedonistic atmosphere of the ’70s rock scene, where indulgence in alcohol and drugs was almost a rite of passage for musicians. However, he underscored the evolution of the industry and the importance of prioritizing mental and physical well-being over destructive behaviours. Cooper’s candid reflections shed light on the changing narrative surrounding substance abuse in the music world and the growing emphasis on healthier lifestyles.
As he gears up for his upcoming world tour, Cooper remains a formidable presence in the music industry, defying stereotypes and proving that a rockstar image can be synonymous with discipline and resilience. His commitment to sobriety serves as an inspiration to fans and aspiring musicians alike, showcasing that authentic artistry transcends external perceptions of what it means to be a rock ‘n’ roll icon. With his innovative cocktail project and unwavering dedication to his craft, Alice Cooper continues to leave a lasting impact on the music scene, proving that true rockstars don’t need alcohol to shine bright.