These cases serve as somber reminders of the devastating effects of alcohol on even the most talented individuals. Their legacies live on through their music, but their stories also underscore the importance of addressing the personal struggles that often accompany fame and creativity. His cause of death was heart failure, but he was also dependant on drugs and alcohol throughout his career. There was no autopsy, so no one knows for sure the real cause of his death.
Top 10 Musicians Who Died Due to Drugs and Alcohol
- Nobody could touch Prince when it came to sheer musical firepower – dude played 27 instruments and crossed genres like they were nothing.
- Loved by many, he made a huge impact and he is still talked about and idolized to this day.
- Battling addictions and personal demons, the vocalist struggled at the peak of her fame.
Songwriting icon Townes Van Zandt, known for timeless works like “Pancho and Lefty,” faced an untimely death on January 1, 1997. Officially attributed to cardiac arrhythmia, Van Zandt’s struggles with drugs and alcohol contributed to his premature departure, leaving behind a significant influence on the likes of Steve Earle. The “King of the Road” singer, Roger Miller, known for his Grammy-winning career, passed away in October 1992 due to lung and throat cancer.

Country Stars Who’ve Overdosed on Drugs + Alcohol
- Actress Lisa Robin Kelly, who played Laurie Forman on the hit sitcom “That ’70s Show,” battled addiction for many years.
- Despite the untimely end to his physical journey, Street’s musical legacy lived on.
- In just two solo albums, the performer garnered commercial and critical acclaim with hits like “Valerie” and “Rehab.” Her record “Back to Black” brought her international fame and Grammy awards.
- Prince died following an accidental fentanyl overdose in his Paisley Park residence on April 21, 2016.
- Rolling Stone Brian Jones drowned in his swimming pool following being kicked out of the band as a result of his drug use.
Phenobarbital is a type of barbiturate used primarily as a sedative and anticonvulsant. Its use can lead to physical and psychological dependence, and an overdose can cause respiratory distress, coma, or even death. Despite its dangerous potential, phenobarbital is still used in many countries due to its effectiveness and low cost.

Years Ago Today, Country Music Legend, Keith Whitley, Passed Away From Alcohol Poisoning
Among the most storied and well-regarded performers of any era, she performed standards of the 1940s and 1950s better than almost anyone. In 1959, Holiday died of cirrhosis after a long battle with addiction. While her story was tragic, many books and films ensured that her inspiring life and musical expertise would never be forgotten. Before making a splash on Season 6 of “The Voice,” singer Christina Grimmie released her own covers on YouTube. Releasing an EP and an album, the performer already developed her sound prior to landing an audition on the NBC show.
Top 10 Most Difficult Songs for Female Singers
In 2001, at the age of 22, Aaliyah’s life was cut short as the overloaded aircraft she was in crashed shortly after takeoff in the Bahamas. She leaves behind a legacy of groundbreaking music and inspiring artistry. And though fans mourn at the loss Alcoholics Anonymous of these incredible female voices, their body of work lives on, creating a profound impact on the industry and a new generation of music fans. From soulful ballads to powerful anthems, the performances of talented singers continue to inspire and resonate with audiences today.
Famous Musicians Who Battled Drug and Alcoholism
- His partnership with Eddie Montgomery yielded countless hits, each song resonating with audiences on a personal level.
- Movies got a whole lot richer when Philip Seymour Hoffman brought his incredible depth to both indie films and blockbusters.
- Acclaimed Australian actor Heath Ledger’s unexpected death shook the global film community.
Janis Joplin’s solo career was blooming when she unexpectedly died from a heroin overdose on October 4, 1970. After she was found lifeless on the floor of her Hollywood hotel room, several conspiracy theories suggested a different cause of death. Don Rich, alongside his close friend Buck Owens, played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of Bakersfield country music. His mastery of the guitar and fiddle, infused with a unique Bakersfield twang, became a defining element of the genre.
As an actor, she appeared in “Porgy and Bess” and received an Oscar nomination for her role in “Carmen Jones.” Despite this success, she dealt with financial issues and dwindling film opportunities. Dandridge returned to her roots on the stage, singing as she juggled personal and monetary celebrities who died from alcohol setbacks. Through Halle Berry’s portrayal of her in “Introducing Dorothy Dandridge,” people were reintroduced to the artist’s one-of-a-kind talents. The “Valerie” singer rose to fame in her early 20s after releasing her best-selling album Back to Black. But at 27 years old, her career was tragically cut short when she died suddenly from accidental alcohol poisoning.
Take a look at this list and you’ll see the people who bit the big one because they couldn’t put down the bottle. Prince died of an accidental fentanyl overdose, the Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office said Thursday. https://ecosoberhouse.com/ The 57-year-old musician joins a lengthy list of celebrities who have died as a result of substance addiction.

