Rusko Announces Indefinite Hiatus: ‘It Became Clear I Was Having a Mental Breakdown’

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Renowned UK dubstep pioneer Rusko has officially stepped away from the spotlight, announcing an indefinite break from both recording and live performances.
In a candid update shared via social media on July 17, the producer opened up about the personal toll his career has taken. “When I first contemplated stepping away from music and the stage, I wasn’t sure how to approach it publicly,” he shared. “The truth is, I couldn’t find the words. I had been neglecting my mental and physical health for far too long, and I eventually hit a breaking point.”
Rusko explained that he realized he was suffering a mental breakdown, necessitating an immediate withdrawal from the industry to focus on his well-being. Addressing his dedicated fanbase, he apologized for the cancellation of upcoming tour dates, emphasizing how much their loyalty has meant to him over the years. “For now, my priority is healing. While I can’t promise a specific return date, I truly hope this isn’t a final farewell, but rather a ‘see you later.’”
The announcement has sparked an outpouring of support from peers across the electronic music landscape. Fellow producer Ravenscoon lauded him as an “all-time great” and a massive inspiration, while LSDream expressed gratitude for his “legendary contributions to the culture,” wishing him the space and time necessary to fully recover.
This is not the first time the artist has paused his career to prioritize his health. In 2017, Rusko took a hiatus following a stomach cancer diagnosis, later returning to the stage after a successful recovery. Throughout his career, he has been a fixture in the scene, with albums like O.M.G.! and Songs earning significant spots on the Top Dance Albums charts. His most recent project, the collaboration “Professor X” with Marco Strous, arrived this past March.
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