The “I Like Me Better” singer, whose real name is Ari Leff, announced on Instagram on Tuesday, June 2, that he is stepping away from Khalid’s It’s Always Summer Somewhere Tour before its scheduled end. The reason is a deeply personal one: he wants to focus on his mental health.
Lauv Shares Honest Update
“I’ve been trying to be strong enough to get back out there and share this music with all of you — but I have to be honest with myself and with all of you: I’m deeply struggling right now, and I need to step away for a little while to take care of my mental health,” began Lauv. “I am so sorry to my fans, to Khalid, and to everyone affected by this. You all mean everything to me.”
The singer said his mental health journey has long been reflected in his music.
“My struggles with mental health have never been a secret — they’re woven into pretty much every song I’ve ever made,” he wrote. “If being open about this right now helps even one person look at their feelings and try to address whats going on, then hopefully something good will come from it.”
Lauv, who’s spoken openly in the past about his experiences with OCD and substance use, continued, “I’ll do everything I can to get healthy, get back into a creative place, and get back to doing what i love best. This. Music. Thank you all for understanding and for sending me love all these years. And thank you to everyone who’s ever been a friend and a supporter.”
Leaving the Tour Early
Khalid’s It’s Always Summer Somewhere Tour launched on May 16 in Las Vegas and is scheduled to run through June 26 in Berkeley, Calif. Lauv completed 10 shows on the tour before announcing his departure.
Khalid Shows His Support
“I wanna take this moment to give thanks and appreciation to @lauvsongs for joining me on the tour and doing the best he could with the struggles he’s facing with his mental health currently,” he began.
“I wish you an abundance of love, light, and clarity through your dark times,” continued the singer. “Seeing you perform and do what you’re passionate about every night has been such a pleasure and I know for a fact that when you are healed, you will continue to do even more great things. Your stories and songs have impacted so many fans and listeners, and we all will continue to be there for you.”
The two artists recently collaborated on the song “Tied Up,” which was released in May.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges, emotional distress, substance use problems, or just needs to talk, call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org 24/7.
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