Alex Lifeson of Rush has quit cannabis ahead of a high-pressure reunion tour, acknowledging that decades of using marijuana during songwriting had become a hindrance to the focus and discipline he needs. His decision reflects broader concerns about mental clarity in preparation for demanding professional commitments, though he maintained that he performed live concerts sober throughout his career.

The article documents attempts by numerous other musicians to give up weed with notably inconsistent outcomes. Some artists like Paul McCartney and Lukas Nelson announced permanent departures from cannabis, though evidence suggests McCartney may have resumed use. Others including Miley Cyrus temporarily quit only to resume within months, whilst Willie Nelson clarified he merely stopped smoking but continued with edibles and vaping. Most notably, Snoop Dogg's 2023 announcement of quitting proved entirely fabricated—a marketing stunt for a smokeless firepit company.