During the interview, the famous singer discussed periods of his life where he was addicted to alcohol and drugs. He went into detail about how drugs negatively affected his life, both professionally and personally. John mentioned that his addiction began in 1974 when his manager and romantic partner, John Reid, introduced him to cocaine, the singer told Time.

It put the singer in a downward spiral. He described many of the problems he experienced due to this drug use and how it hampered his life and contributed to many other problems, including those with his songwriting and romantic relationships.

“You make terrible decisions about drugs,” John said.

John admitted that his experience during those turbulent times eventually shaped his opinion about addiction, one of the main reasons the singer explained why he felt marijuana was harmful.

“I argue that it’s addictive,” John said in the interview. “It leads to other drugs. And when you’re stoned—and I’ve been stoned—you don’t think normally.”

The Rock & Roll Hall of Famer then mentioned the campaign for the legalization of marijuana in North America. He condemned such efforts, calling them a significant societal flaw given the problems marijuana can cause.

“Legalizing marijuana in America and Canada is one of the biggest mistakes of all time,” John said.

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Marijuana has been linked to many harmful health effects. In February 2024, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention published on its website the health risks of using marijuana, including a negative impact on brain health, heart health, mental health, and lung health. The CDC also cited that marijuana can “adversely affect multiple skills required for safe driving,” endangering the lives of the user and other innocent drivers on the road.

Regarding the brain, the CDC reported that marijuana use was linked to damage to brain function, “especially the parts of the brain responsible for memory, learning, attention, decision-making, coordination, emotions, and reaction time.” In addition, research have linked marijuana use to depression, anxiety and schizophrenia. It has also been linked to suicidal ideation, as “cannabis is the most common illicit substance detected in suicide victims’ toxicology tests.”