Challenges in the Life of Kid Cudi in a Detailed Timeline

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Kid Cudi's life and career.

Kid Cudi (Scott Mescudi) is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, record producer, actor, and fashion designer. He gained initial recognition with his song "Day 'n' Nite," which became popular online after being self-published on MySpace. This led to collaborations with producers Plain Pat and Emile Haynie, resulting in his first mixtape, A Kid Named Cudi (2008). The mixtape increased Cudi's popularity, earning him a fanbase and attracting the attention of Kanye West, who signed him to GOOD Music in 2008.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles Legacy & Impact

February 26, 2011: Dream On Record Label Dissolved

On February 26, 2011, Kid Cudi announced via Twitter the dissolution of his record label, Dream On, which he had launched in 2009 with Patrick "Plain Pat" Reynolds and Emile Haynie.

November 13, 2011: "Rap Hard" Demo Leak

On November 13, 2011, an unreleased demo tape Kid Cudi had recorded from 2002 to 2003 under the pseudonym Kid Mesc, titled "Rap Hard", leaked online.

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2012: Custody battle over Kid Cudi's daughter

Throughout 2012, Kid Cudi was involved in a custody battle over his daughter, Vada. An amicable agreement was reached with the mother.

March 2013: Kid Cudi discusses fame and substance abuse

In a March 2013 interview, Kid Cudi talked about how his sudden fame led him to alcohol and drugs.

April 9, 2013: Indicud Leak & Album Release Date Adjustment

On April 9, 2013, after Indicud leaked online, Kid Cudi moved the album's release date forward to April 16.

2013: Kid Cudi reveals addiction to anti-depressants

In a 2013 interview, Kid Cudi revealed that he suffered from an addiction to anti-depressant medication prescribed after an emotional breakdown.

2014: Kid Cudi discusses depression and suicidal thoughts

In a 2014 interview, Kid Cudi opened up about his struggles with depression and suicidal ideation, describing years of consistent suicidal thoughts due to loneliness and lack of self-worth.

July 2016: Kid Cudi reveals survivor guilt

In a July 2016 interview, Kid Cudi shared that he experienced survivor guilt, feeling troubled by his success while others he knew didn't have the same opportunities.

October 2016: Kid Cudi enters rehab for depression and suicidal urges

In October 2016, Kid Cudi announced on Facebook that he checked himself into rehabilitation for depression and suicidal urges.

2016: Kid Cudi goes to rehab for cocaine addiction

In 2016, Kid Cudi went to rehab for cocaine addiction, as he revealed in 2022.

August 2022: Kid Cudi reveals he suffered a stroke after entering rehab in 2016

In an August 2022 interview, Kid Cudi revealed that he suffered a stroke two weeks after entering rehab in 2016, which led to months of physical rehabilitation.