Joseph Habedank

For Joseph Habedank, receiving a second Grammy nomination signifies more than just recognition; it represents a significant milestone in his journey from drug addiction to recovery. At 34, Habedank began his gospel music career as the lead singer-songwriter for The Perrys, but his path took a troubling turn in 2008 when he developed a throat ulcer and resorted to opioid pain medication during a tour. He recalls the moment a woman noticed his discomfort and offered him pain relief, leading him to take a few pills over the weekend. Initially, he believed he could manage the situation, but soon he found himself grappling with the onset of addiction. Reflecting on his experience, he admits to seeking out medication from others, realizing too late that he was on a dangerous path. Growing up in a family that discouraged doctor visits, he had limited understanding of prescription drugs, and the euphoric relief he felt from the medication masked deeper issues, making it difficult for him to recognize the severity of his addiction.

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Habedank describes himself as inherently reserved, yet the medication he took unveiled a more extroverted aspect of his personality that he began to appreciate. He acknowledges, “Everyone has insecurities, but I had been somewhat of a hidden introvert. When I started this medication, I found myself becoming more sociable and talkative.” This transformation contributed to his growing dependence and addiction, as it amplified a side of him that had long been suppressed. Eventually, he was consuming 10 to 12 hydrocodone or oxycodone pills daily, starting his mornings with a few doses and continuing throughout the day, leading him to feel like a "walking zombie." As his addiction deepened, he experienced severe withdrawal symptoms when he couldn't access the drugs, often resorting to manipulation to secure his next supply. He admits, “When I ran out, the sickness was brutal. I had numerous contacts from touring, and I exploited those relationships to get what I needed. I manipulated people, which wasn’t my true self; it was the addiction speaking.”

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Amidst his struggles with substance abuse, he met his wife, Lindsay, whom he regards as his “best friend” and “rock star.” Just weeks before their wedding, she discovered his issues but chose to marry him nonetheless. He took a brief hiatus from touring to attempt to regain control of his life, but he ultimately failed to seek the necessary help. Their initial happiness was short-lived, as Habedank relapsed shortly after their honeymoon, returning to his pill use while concealing it from his wife.

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Three years later, his addiction had brought him to a devastating low. The singer reached out to a counselor affiliated with Porter’s Call in Franklin, Tennessee, a support organization dedicated to assisting musicians struggling with addiction and alcoholism. It was during this conversation that he discovered MusiCares, a nonprofit under the auspices of the Recording Academy that provides crucial support to music industry professionals facing financial, medical, and personal challenges. He recalls being unaware of MusiCares until the counselor explained that the organization often covers treatment costs for musicians seeking help. Ultimately, MusiCares funded his rehabilitation, a gesture he views as pivotal to his recovery journey. He expresses gratitude for the program, noting that it covered over $20,000 for his treatment when he had no job or income. He also acknowledges the unwavering support of his wife, Lindsay, who remained by his side despite advice from others to leave him. He credits her belief in him as a significant factor in his survival and recovery. Despite pressure from loved ones urging Lindsay to walk away, she chose to stay, a decision that he believes was crucial to his path to healing. He persevered, believing she recognized something in him that others overlooked. He describes her as the most remarkable young woman he has ever encountered, crediting her with saving his life and expressing deep gratitude for Lindsay.

 

By the time he entered Cumberland Heights on June 8, 2013, he had been sober for just over a week, five years after first encountering opioids. Aware that only about 10 percent of patients maintain sobriety, Habedank was resolute in his commitment to follow his counselors' guidance throughout his recovery journey. He selected the Nashville rehab center based on his counselor's recommendation, appreciating its tranquil setting. During his 30-day program, he experienced a profound lesson when the patients were blindfolded and placed in a maze. Unbeknownst to them, the only way out was to seek assistance. He vividly recalls approaching a counselor, asking if he had found the exit, only to be told he had not. Admitting his confusion, he ultimately expressed his need for help, leading to the simple yet powerful instruction to remove his blindfold.

 

After completing treatment, Habedank took further steps to maintain his sobriety, but he also grappled with his Christian faith. He felt conflicted during his drug use, describing himself as a "counterfeit." He recognized that being a Christian implies embodying Christ-like qualities, and he struggled with the disconnect between his addiction and his faith.He expresses that the most transformative experience in his faith journey as a Christian was achieving sobriety, which allowed him to discover a new dimension of God. While many perceive God as a powerful ruler, he emphasizes that God embodies love. Reflecting on his past, he acknowledges that without sobriety, he might have fallen into a cycle of addiction, transitioning from pain pills to heroin. Grateful for his timely recovery, he notes that staying sober has opened new avenues in his life, including a Grammy nomination for his album, Deeper Oceans.

 

He believes that his struggles have contributed to this recognition, marking a significant milestone from rehab to the Grammys. Expressing gratitude to his peers and the music community, he looks forward to sharing this moment with his wife, Lindsay. Additionally, he offers advice to those facing addiction, urging them to reach out for help, as admitting the need for assistance is often the hardest yet most crucial step toward recovery.