Lenier Mesa, a prominent Cuban singer and songwriter, made a startling revelation during an interview with Glenn Perez on the show La Hora del Tiza. He disclosed his past addiction to cocaine, which led to four overdoses that nearly cost him his life.
In the interview segment shared on social media, Lenier candidly admitted, "I was addicted to cocaine for a long time. It was about four years ago that I quit all drugs. This has been my saving grace, allowing me to win the Grammys and focus," he stated.
He described his cocaine use as an ingrained part of his daily life: "I would have breakfast, eat, and snort, and so on."
Reflecting on those perilous overdose incidents, Lenier was forthright in recalling the severity: "I had four overdoses, you know? In the hospital. No, no, seriously. I was dying."
Now, Lenier takes pride in his recovery, saying, "I live with pride now, you know? Clean, clean."
He also spoke about the psychological scars that linger. Certain places linked to his drug use evoke memories, prompting him to avoid them. "I now avoid bathrooms because I see the place where, you know? Those kinds of places. It's a trauma," he explained.
A Public Battle with Addiction
Lenier Mesa has previously addressed his struggles with substance abuse. In July 2023, during an interview on El Gordo y la Flaca, he admitted to having been "lost in drugs and alcohol," a period that almost cost him his family.
In November 2025, he claimed to have been "almost a year and a half clean," discussing the personal and professional changes he had undergone.
However, this latest account marks one of his most detailed public confessions, as he specifically names cocaine as his drug of choice, recounts the four overdoses, and speaks on the emotional aftermath of that dark period.
From Humble Beginnings to Grammy Success
Born in Güines, Cuba, in 1989, Lenier Mesa migrated to Miami as a teenager, enduring a tough start. He worked as a barber and even slept in a car for about 15 days upon his arrival in the city.
His musical career took off with the hit "Cómo te pago" (2020), which garnered over 90 million views on YouTube. His recognition as a composer grew when he won two Latin Grammys in 2022 for his contribution to Marc Anthony's album Pa'llá voy, featuring the song "Mala."
Lenier attributes his professional advancements to quitting drugs, stating that sobriety allowed him to focus on music and embark on a new chapter in his life.
Insights into Lenier Mesa's Journey
What addiction did Lenier Mesa struggle with?
Lenier Mesa struggled with a cocaine addiction for many years, which led to four overdoses.
How did Lenier's career change after overcoming addiction?
After quitting drugs, Lenier Mesa's career flourished. He won two Latin Grammys and was able to concentrate on his music, marking a new phase in his life.
What are some psychological effects Lenier faces post-recovery?
Lenier Mesa experiences psychological trauma related to places associated with his past drug use, leading him to avoid certain environments.