Dubstep Pioneer Rusko Pronounces Indefinite Hiatus, Citing Psychological Well being Struggles

Rusko has announced that he is stepping back from performing and releasing music, saying he had reached a breaking point after more than two decades on the road.

The dubstep pioneer, whose real name is Chris Mercer, had alarmed fans in mid-June after sharing a series of troubling social media posts, one of which read, “I wish I was dead.” He has now shared a formal statement, opening up about a gradual erosion of his physical and mental well-being that he had long tried to ignore.

Mercer said he ultimately arrived at what he called a “serious breakdown,” prompting the decision to withdraw from the industry indefinitely.

“I dedicated all my life and spirit to being an artist, and have been traveling the world for over 20+ years,” he wrote. I am so unbelievably lucky and grateful for every experience and the most amazing fans who have been alongside me. But it became clear I was having a breakdown mentally.. and so needed to dip out the game for the foreseeable future.”

Known for his signature wobbly basslines and playful production choices, Rusko helped popularize dubstep in the mid-2000s alongside artists such as Skream and Benga. The influential DJ’s tracks ‘Woo Boost’ and ‘Cockney Thug’ became touchstones of the scene and led him to produce official remixes for Lady Gaga and Adele, among others, and to collaborations with Cypress Hill, M.I.A. and more.

Mercer’s announcement canceled a string of upcoming shows and he did not offer a timeline for a possible return. He did, however, close his statement with a note of cautious hope.

“For now, I have to follow my instincts and search for healing and recovery,” he wrote. “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.’”

The UK producer’s candor drew an outpouring of support from fans and fellow artists, many of whom praised his willingness to speak openly about mental health.

“Thank you for ur legendary pioneering and massive contributions to the culture,” LSDREAM commented. “You were my first dubstep ‘show’ in some tiny basement NYC bar on McDougal St in like 2008 or something. Core memory. When I hear fans say to artists ‘that set changed my life’ I know exactly what they mean.”

“Without you, there wouldn’t be any of us making or listening to this music we all love so much,” Levity added.

You can read Mercer’s full statement below. The team at EDM.com is sending our support during this difficult time.

Credit: Instagram/Russia

Editor’s Note: If you are struggling with mental health issues, you can call the The 988 Lifeline, a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.