Legendary rapper Redman has opened up about a transformative chapter in his life: a two-and-a-half-year celibacy journey. In a candid interview with Ambrosia For Heads, the Newark native shared how abstaining from sex and smoking helped him find clarity during a tumultuous period.
A Life-Altering Decision for Redman
“My girl and I broke up maybe three, four years ago. I was going through such a sh*t divorce that lasted seven years,” Redman explained. This challenging phase impacted not only his personal life but also his music, delaying the release of Muddy Waters Too.
Determined to regain control, Redman made the bold decision to fast from both sex and smoking. “I actually fasted for two and a half years—no f**king, no smoking. It was the best thing I could have done in my life,” he declared.
While the journey wasn’t without its struggles, Redman found profound mental and emotional benefits. “Believe me, I wanted to. I was fighting it, I was sweating,” he admitted. Living alone, he described moments of inner conflict and prayer. “I was constantly talking to myself—me and God, just back and forth. But I made it.”
Redman credited the experience with clearing distractions and sharpening his focus. “It cleared out so much distraction. My reception is much clearer now. Having no sex is nothing to me now because it was all feeding the flesh,” he shared.
This period of self-discipline also gave him a deeper understanding of his priorities. “Once I did that, I was able to control how I moved, what I like, and what is not good for me,” he said.
Redman isn’t the only artist embracing celibacy for personal growth. Fellow rapper GloRilla attempted a 90-day challenge in 2024 but humorously admitted struggling after nine days. Similarly, R&B singer Omarion practiced celibacy for three years, describing it as a spiritual journey.
For Redman, the two-and-a-half years of abstinence proved to be a transformative experience. “It was the best thing I could have done in my life,” he reiterated, showing how discipline and introspection can pave the way for renewal.