Keith Urban Reflects on Life-Changing Sobriety Journey

Nashville, TN – In a recent interview on “The Zane Lowe Show,” country star Keith Urban shared details about his journey to sobriety, a decision he says changed his life. Urban, 57, recalled the moment he realized he would reach a critical point in his battle with addiction. “All through the years of drinking and doing drugs, I always had this specific voice inside of me that said, ‘One day, you’re gonna come to a crossroads,'” he explained.

The turning point came shortly after Urban married actress Nicole Kidman in 2006 when she organized an intervention for him. “I knew that was it. I’m like, ‘Oh, this is that fork in the road,’” Urban said. He described the relief he felt after finally facing his addiction, stating, “I didn’t come to America to end up in rehab and courthouses; that’s not why I came here. So I’m like, ‘What am I doing?’”

Urban has been sober for nearly 19 years and opened up about the challenges he faced along the way. “It took me a long time to recognize my alcoholism,” he shared during the interview, attributing part of his struggle to feeling out of place after moving from Australia to Nashville to pursue his music career.

Despite his challenges, Urban found significant success in his career, with his self-titled debut album released in 1999. “Nothing I’d done before meant s—,” Urban noted, reflecting on his struggles as a newcomer in the music industry. He acknowledged a painful breakup and feelings of insecurity as key factors that led to a downward spiral into addiction.

Following two failed rehab attempts, it was Kidman’s love and determination that made a difference in Urban’s recovery. At a 2010 interview, he expressed gratitude that she didn’t walk away from their marriage during his toughest times. “It was done in such a way that the love in that room was just right. I was like, ‘Put the cuffs on, let’s go,'” he recalled of the intervention.

Over the years, Urban has not only focused on his own recovery but has also inspired others in the music industry. Country singer Brantley Gilbert credited Urban with saving his life during Gilbert’s battle with addiction. “If it weren’t for him, I don’t know if I’d be sober or be in this business anymore,” Gilbert said.

Urban continues to thrive both personally and professionally. He and Kidman will celebrate their 19th wedding anniversary this month and are parents to two daughters, Sunday and Faith. Urban recently released his latest album titled “High,” a project that reflects his journey and interpretations of what it means to feel ‘high’ in a positive sense.

As he looks toward the future, Urban remains committed to his family and music, noting, “It’s always family first.” His journey exemplifies resilience, growing from addiction and inspiring those around him with his story of hope and recovery.