Matt Sorum, the renowned drummer of Guns N’ Roses and Velvet Revolver, is marking a significant milestone in his life—17 years of sobriety. On Sunday, November 24, the 64-year-old musician shared his reflections on social media, celebrating this achievement with a message of immense gratitude.
In his post, Sorum wrote: “Woke up this morning at a very early hour, which I do regularly now that I have my daughter Lou Ellington, and with immense gratitude today marks 17 years of sobriety for me. In that 17 years, there have been many twists and turns and ups and downs, but I’m proud to say I did it without drinking or doing drugs. Life on life’s terms, as we say.”
While acknowledging the challenges he faced, Sorum also highlighted the positive aspects of his earlier years, recalling his wild adventures in Hollywood and global travels. “My days of drinking weren’t all horrible, as that would be a lie. My early years in Hollywood and my times traveling the world were wild adventures that I wouldn’t change a thing,” he shared. However, he also admitted that the partying eventually took a toll on his personal life. “The partying did start to take hold of me, and I suffered mainly in my personal life. Success was scary, and most of all, love and relationships scared me.”
In his message, Sorum delved into the unique world of rock ‘n’ roll, describing it as a “bubble” where bad behavior was often seen as acceptable. “Life in Rock N Roll is like a bubble that anything is acceptable. Bad behavior is recommended, and growing up loving RNR, it was par for the course. I did it at the highest level, no pun intended.” Despite his success, Sorum struggled with substance abuse for years, enduring three trips to rehab and multiple relapses.
What ultimately made the difference in his journey to sobriety, he explained, was turning to a higher power. “The thing that changed it all for me was turning my will and my life over to the care of God. That trust and faith takes care of me and my family, and I have true happiness.”
Sorum ended his message by expressing gratitude for those who supported him along the way: “Thank you to all those of you that have helped me on the most beautiful journey any man could wish for.”
Matt Sorum’s journey of recovery stands as an inspiring testament to perseverance, faith, and the power of transformation.
