Veteran music producer ID Cabasa has described drug abuse as a growing pandemic that affects not only users but society at large, calling for urgent collective action to address its root causes.
Speaking at TVC TownSquare, themed “War Against Drug Abuse: Taking Control of Today, Protecting the Future,” Cabasa stressed that substance abuse should not be viewed as an isolated problem.
“If we say it’s just the users that are having issues, even you that you’re not using it, it is having an effect on you.
We all created this beast. Music has its own subtle way of creating mindset,” he said.
Beyond Symptoms to Root Causes
Cabasa noted that discussions around drug abuse often focus on visible symptoms rather than underlying societal drivers.
“When we have these conversations amongst my colleagues, we notice that we always treat the symptoms, we don’t look at the root cause,” he stated, cautioning against simplistic blame on parents or family structures.
He argued that broader societal values — particularly the glorification of wealth and material success — play a significant role in encouraging both drug trafficking and its subtle promotion in popular culture.
“In a society where people measure greatness by material possessions, it encourages many who are in the business not to get high but to make money,” he said.
Allegations of Industry Infiltration
The producer also alleged that some drug financiers discreetly infiltrate the music industry through sponsorship deals, influencing artists to promote their names and activities indirectly in songs.
“They don’t come to the industry saying they want to sell drugs. All they need to do is finance you. All they need is for singers to mention their names and what they do,” he claimed.
Call for Action, Not Just Criticism
Cabasa challenged critics of drug glorification in music to move beyond complaints and actively invest in positive alternatives.
“Those that are not in support of drugs, are we putting our money where our mouth is? Are we funding campaigns or the type of music that will not carry all of those things? Or are we just going to stop at the point of criticisms?” he asked.
He concluded that tackling what he termed a “pandemic” requires deliberate value reorientation, responsible content creation, and sustained support for initiatives aimed at protecting young people and safeguarding the future.
