Travis Barker and Tom DeLonge Got So High with Cypress Hill That They Wanted to Go Home

In a recent interview with Apple Music’s Zane Lowe, drummer Travis Barker opened up about a rare instance when he performed under the influence during a blink-182 concert. Known for his precision and energetic drumming style, Barker usually steers clear of substances before shows to maintain his high performance standards. However, he recalled a singular occasion on tour with No Doubt and Cypress Hill that deviated from his norm.

During this tour, Barker was persuaded by Cypress Hill members B-Real and Sen Dog to join them in smoking before the final show. Despite his usual practice of waiting until after the performance, Barker acquiesced when his tourmates made it clear they would be departing immediately after the set. This decision, however, led to an unexpected and challenging experience behind the drum kit.

Barker described the set as feeling interminably long, with songs stretching out far beyond their usual length. He noted a dissonance between his body’s physical activity and his mental state, experiencing a quiet detachment while playing. This altered perception was a marked departure from his typical highly engaged performance mindset.

The effect was not isolated to Barker. Tom DeLonge, blink-182’s guitarist and vocalist, also found himself struggling during the show. Midway through the set, DeLonge reportedly expressed a desire to leave, a sentiment Barker shared. The two found the experience so taxing that they both longed to end the performance prematurely.

Interestingly, Mark Hoppus, the band’s bassist and vocalist, was reportedly unaware of the difficulties his bandmates were enduring during the concert. This contrast underscores the unique challenges Barker and DeLonge faced from their altered states.

Reflecting on the incident, Barker concluded that indulging in smoking before concerts is not advisable for him, reaffirming his commitment to maintaining clear focus during performances. This candid admission sheds light on the rigorous demands of live shows and the importance of mental clarity for musicians who rely heavily on timing and coordination.

Barker’s conversation with Lowe coincides with the upcoming release of his documentary, "Travis Barker: Louder Than Fear," scheduled to premiere on August 13th via Hulu in the United States and Disney+ internationally. The film promises an in-depth look at his life and career, providing additional context to moments like this that have shaped his journey.

Beyond this anecdote, Barker has recently revealed that blink-182 is actively working on new music, signaling continued creative momentum for the band. Despite his public appearances alongside wife Kourtney Kardashian on the reality series "The Kardashians," Barker has admitted he does not regularly watch the show.

Meanwhile, Cypress Hill continues to evolve, with B-Real discussing the group’s first original album in Spanish, "Dios Bendiga," and plans to support the release with an upcoming tour. This detail adds a broader perspective to the touring context in which Barker’s experience occurred.

Overall, Barker’s reflection on his one-time pre-show high offers a rare glimpse into the challenges musicians face balancing lifestyle choices with the demands of live performance. It also emphasizes his dedication to delivering high-quality shows for fans, reinforcing his professional approach to his craft.