Jamey Johnson Reveals He ‘Barely Survived’ because of a…read more
Country musician Jamey Johnson recently opened up about his battle with alcoholism and how it influenced his new song “Sober,” which is part of his upcoming album Midnight Gasoline. In an interview with Billboard, Johnson shared that alcohol addiction had driven him down a dark and destructive path. He described it as an uncontrollable “fire” that left only ashes, forcing him to rebuild his life from the ground up. Johnson said he decided he owed himself a better, more fulfilling way to live and committed to sobriety.
Johnson recalled his last drink being in September 2011 and later quit smoking marijuana in 2015, which he maintained for around nine years. During this period, Johnson focused on self-improvement, achieving accomplishments like obtaining a pilot’s license, running a business, and launching a product line. Though he remains largely sober, he mentioned that he might occasionally use cannabis while writing, but he stays away from alcohol entirely.
In addition to his personal journey with sobriety, Johnson, now 49, spoke about how the passing of his close friend and collaborator Toby Keith impacted the making of Midnight Gasoline. The 12-track album, set for release on November 8, marks Johnson’s first solo studio project in 14 years.
Reflecting on his sobriety and losses, Johnson said he finds a new sense of purpose through his music and personal growth. He acknowledges that living with a clear mind allows him to pursue meaningful achievements, showing that the difficult journey was worthwhile. Midnight Gasoline, crafted during this reflective period, holds significant personal meaning as it represents his journey toward a healthier life and the legacy of his friend Keith.
