The Pretty Reckless’ Taylor Momsen Discusses Overcoming Depression and Substance Abuse

Taylor Momsen, the lead vocalist of The Pretty Reckless, opened up about her personal battles with depression and substance abuse during her recent appearance on the popular podcast, Call Her Daddy, hosted by Alex Cooper. Released on November 5, the episode delved into Momsen’s journey through grief, her transition from acting to music, and her struggles to be taken seriously in the music industry.

Facing Grief and Darkness

Momsen’s conversation took a profound turn as she recounted the emotional turmoil she experienced following the deaths of her idol, Chris Cornell, in 2017, and her long-time friend and producer, Kato Khandwala, the following year. She described this period as a “giant one-two punch” that led her into a deep spiral of depression and substance abuse. “I just went off the rails, I didn’t handle that well,” she admitted, highlighting the overwhelming nature of her grief.

The Descent into Isolation

Despite having a support system, Momsen found herself isolating from others, overwhelmed by shame and hopelessness. “I had to make a very conscious choice at a point where I was either going to live or I was going to die,” she recounted. This turning point forced her to confront her destructive behaviors and choose a path toward healing.

Rediscovering Music as a Source of Healing

As a musician, Momsen’s relationship with music became complicated during her struggles. The songs of her late idols brought her pain rather than solace, making it difficult for her to connect with her passion. “I couldn’t listen to Soundgarden because of the pain over Cornell’s death,” she shared, underscoring the depth of her emotional struggle.

Finding the Way Back

Time emerged as a crucial factor in her healing process. Gradually, she learned to re-engage with music. “Eventually, I got to a place where I could start listening to records again,” Momsen explained. She revisited the roots of her love for music, beginning with The Beatles, and gradually expanded her listening to include other bands that had shaped her musical identity. This rediscovery culminated in the creation of The Pretty Reckless’ fourth album, Death By Rock and Roll.

Messages of Hope and Resilience

Momsen’s experience with grief and depression led her to important realizations about the nature of loss. She emphasized that while the feeling of missing someone never fully disappears, it does become more manageable over time. Her album, Death By Rock and Roll, reflects this journey from darkness to light, starting on a bleak note but ultimately conveying a message of hope. “If you can just wait it out, you will get to the other side… It does get better,” she reassured listeners, acknowledging the frustration that often accompanies such advice.

The Future for The Pretty Reckless

Looking ahead, The Pretty Reckless is gearing up for an exciting 2026, as they have been announced as the opening act for AC/DC’s upcoming tour. In addition to their touring plans, Momsen hinted at new music on the horizon, following their latest single, “For I Am Death,” and their holiday EP, Taylor Momsen’s Pretty Reckless Christmas.

Conclusion

Taylor Momsen’s candid discussion on Call Her Daddy serves as a powerful reminder of the complexities of mental health and the importance of seeking help. Her journey from despair to hope illustrates that healing is possible, even in the darkest of times. For anyone struggling with similar issues, it’s crucial to know that support is available, and recovery is attainable.

FAQs

What inspired Taylor Momsen’s journey through depression and substance abuse?

Momsen was deeply affected by the deaths of her idol Chris Cornell and her friend Kato Khandwala, which triggered her struggles with depression and substance abuse.

How did Momsen begin to heal from her depression?

Time played a significant role in her healing. She gradually re-engaged with music, starting with artists she loved as a child, which helped her reconnect with her passion.

What message does Momsen convey about coping with loss and depression?

She emphasizes that while the feeling of missing someone never fully goes away, it becomes less intense over time, and that there is hope and recovery on the other side of pain.

What are The Pretty Reckless’ upcoming plans?

The band is set to open for AC/DC in 2026 and is also working on new music following their latest releases.