Charli XCX has candidly opened up about her current mental health struggles, revealing that she is experiencing the most difficult period of her life emotionally as she prepares to launch her next album. The pop star spoke about her wellbeing in a new cover interview with Rolling Stone, ahead of the release of her forthcoming album Music, Fashion, Film, which is scheduled to arrive on July 24.
Overwhelmed by Public Scrutiny
Reflecting on life under constant public scrutiny, Charli admitted that the intense online conversation surrounding her career has become increasingly overwhelming. “The discourse is loud, and sometimes that can be very overwhelming,” she said. The singer explained that she has deliberately reduced her social media activity in an effort to protect her mental wellbeing. Although she has long been known for maintaining a strong online presence and interacting closely with fans, she said stepping away has become necessary. “I have actually been a lot more offline,” she explained. “I do not really look as much anymore. It’s just better for my brain.”
Worst Emotional State
Charli then revealed the extent of her struggles, saying she currently finds herself in the most difficult emotional state she has experienced. “But I recently have been really struggling with my mental health to the point where, if I’m being real, I’m in the worst place mentally that I’ve been in my life,” she said. She also acknowledged that her emotions have become increasingly unpredictable. “I am finding my emotions are very, very volatile at the minute, I’ll be honest,” she added.
Support from Matty Healy
Elsewhere in the interview, Charli revealed that she had spoken with The 1975 frontman Matty Healy about her struggles. According to the singer, Healy attempted to support her in his own way during their conversations.
Album Speculation Addressed
The artist also addressed speculation surrounding her upcoming album. Following the release of the single “Rock Music”, many fans believed she was moving towards a rock sound. Charli clarified that she never intended to describe the project as a rock album. She previously stated that she wanted to move away from the sound of her hugely successful Brat era and create something different. The new project has already produced two singles, “Rock Music” and “SS26”.
Cover Artwork Inspiration
Charli additionally discussed the cover artwork for Music, Fashion, Film, which features composer John Cale, fashion designer Marc Jacobs and filmmaker Martin Scorsese. She said the choices reflected personal relationships rather than serving as direct musical inspirations. Despite her admiration for The Velvet Underground and its members, Charli said she does not use other artists as reference points while creating music.
Upcoming Festival Headline
Following the album’s release, Charli XCX is expected to headline READING & LEEDS FESTIVAL in August alongside Fontaines DC, Raye, Florence + The Machine, Dave and Chase & Status.
