The Weeknd admitted he relies on drug use when he needs extra focus with his music. And while this was more problematic early in his career, the star keeps it in moderation to maintain stability.

He shared with The Guardian’s Weekend Magazine: “I dibble and dabble and what not. Everything in moderation. When I had nothing to do but make music, it was very heavy. Drugs were a crutch for me.

There were songs on my first record that were seven minutes long, rambling – whatever thoughts I was having when I was under the influence at the time. I can’t see myself doing that now.

I’ll be completely honest with you. The past couple of albums, I do get back to that. Even on this new album. You have writer’s block. And sometimes you’re like, I can’t do this sober.

I cancelled my tour and something happened to my inspiration. I guess it was the weight on my shoulders. I’d cancelled a tour – a lot of money. I had these ideas, but I couldn’t put them on wax. If you were a psychologist, you’d probably tell me there was stress in my life, taking away from my work. I had to get that little jump. And the ball started rolling. And then I didn’t need it anymore.”

The star also confessed he doesn’t fully agree with some of the work he did earlier which painted women in a negative light.

“I don’t think I’d ever apologise for music I make, no. But there are regrets in my life, of course. And you write about it.

The mind of a 19-year-old is very different from the mind of a 26-year-old. You grow. You get into better relationships. You experience more, meet more people, better people. But when you’re in a dark hole, at an earlier point in your life – you write about the mindset you’re in at that moment.”