NEWS
Rusko has revealed that he is stepping away from music and live performances for an indefinite period.
The longtime UK dubstep artist announced his decision through a message shared across his social media accounts.
“When I first decided to call it a day on music and shows I really wasn’t sure how, or even if, I wanted to share it more publicly. The truth is, I simply couldn’t have found the words. I had simply been ignoring my brain and body for far too long, I finally hit a serious breakdown point.”
Rusko, whose birth name is Christopher William Mercer, explained that “it became clear I was having a breakdown mentally, and so needed to dip out of the game for the foreseeable future. To the fans, I am sorry about the upcoming shows but I want you to know that your support over the years has meant everything to me. For now, I have to follow my instincts for healing and recovery. While I can’t guarantee any kind of return, I hope in my heart one day this is not goodbye, but more ‘See ya later, alligator.’”
A key figure in the growth of British dubstep, Rusko previously took time away from his career in 2017 while receiving treatment for stomach cancer. He later confirmed that the treatment had worked and that he was cancer free.
The musician behind Cockney Thug and Woo Boost most recently released Professor X, a collaboration with Marco Strous that arrived in March.
Many fellow producers shared supportive messages beneath his announcement. Ravenscoon wrote, “You’re one of the all-time greats,” while LSDream added, “Thank you for ur legendary pioneering and massive contributions to the culture. May you find and receive the healing u need, and the space to rest and restore.”
During a career spanning more than two decades, Rusko has performed at major festivals around the world and worked with prominent artists including M.I.A. and Britney Spears.
