Wow do some of you people have it all ass backwards...What you call seedy behavior is what has driven basically ever single artistic endeavor worth of shit...Its funny that people who don't or haven't used drugs or drink are basically ex/or current sex addicts etc(and wear it like a badge of courage)...I wonder how many souls a sex addict has disturbed...
I've heard people use that lame excuse before. If you've got the talent, I believe you don't need any mood/psychological/physical altering substances to produce great stuff. It's just a psychological crutch that aids a weak mind/will. The end result doesn't come from the substance, it comes from the person.
With that said, as far as I'm concerned, people can do what they want with their own bodies and can make contradictory life choices as long as they don't hurt others. If they believe they need a drink to loosen themselves up or give them confidence or a drug to achieve their goals, so be it.
As for me, I'm 35 and have never touched drugs, alcohol or cigarettes. I have no interest and frankly don't see the appeal. I also have a hard time relating to addiction, but can understand that is a reality for a lot of people (though I certainly don't applaud anyone for kicking one - you shouldn't have become addicted in the first place). I enjoy life unfiltered and have a million different ways to amuse myself. The only thing I ever wish for is more time in the day to get to more of it...
Again, not passing judgment on anyone who doesn't harm others, but it's always good to hear from others out there who don't feel obligated to fall in with the masses in regards to the classic vices...