Nottingham rapper Bru-C, born Josh Bruce, has announced the cancellation of all his remaining live shows for 2025, including a highly anticipated performance at Glastonbury Festival. The news, shared in an emotional Instagram post on June 13, 2025, cited ongoing mental health struggles as the reason behind his decision to step back from the spotlight.
Bru-C’s rise in the UK music scene has been marked by steady success since his debut EP in 2015. Over the past decade, he has built a loyal fanbase with his energetic style and raw lyricism, scoring two platinum-selling singles and several other hits that have achieved gold and silver certifications. His 2022 track "No Excuses" even reached the top 20 charts, solidifying his place in the competitive British rap landscape.
Scheduled to perform at Glastonbury’s Arcadia area during the festival running from June 25 to June 29, Bru-C was expected to deliver a high-energy set showcasing his recent hits. However, his Instagram statement made it clear that his mental health challenges have worsened over the years, compelling him to prioritize recovery over career commitments.
"This is a really difficult thing for me to post, and one I was really hoping I wouldn’t have to," Bru-C wrote. "I’m really sorry to announce I’m going to have to cancel all of my upcoming show commitments for 2025." He went on to explain, "Many of you know I’ve been struggling with mental health issues for some time now and I’ve tried my best to bury things and keep my life and career moving forward. What I’ve been going through has got gradually worse over the last few years and I need to take another step back and try to get back to some kind of stable peace in my life."
Bru-C expressed deep regret for disappointing fans, particularly those who had spent "hard-earned money" on tickets to see him perform. Yet, he emphasized the necessity of taking time off to "recover and get my life and health back on track." He reassured followers that he is actively "seeking the right help and support," though he admitted uncertainty about when he might return to performing. "I just want to be better," he said poignantly.
The response from the music community has been overwhelmingly supportive. Chart-topping DJ and rapper Example encouraged Bru-C to focus on his wellbeing, stating, "Take your time man. Focus on yourself. Mad respect for this post. Hopefully it helps others. Love ya." Manchester rapper Blizzard praised Bru-C’s self-awareness, calling the decision "a massive step" and reminding him that "Your health is the most important thing and it has to be prioritised before absolutely everything." London-based DJ ShyFX also offered words of encouragement, wishing Bru-C "the space and support to heal and recalibrate." Such solidarity highlights the growing recognition of mental health struggles within the music industry, where the pressures of fame and relentless touring can take a heavy toll.
Bru-C’s career milestones include releasing his debut album, Original Sounds, in 2019 and later signing with the UK division of Def Jam Recordings, a label owned by Jay-Z. His Nottingham roots and authentic storytelling have resonated deeply with fans, making this hiatus a significant moment both for the artist and his audience.
Interestingly, Bru-C is not alone in stepping back from live performances due to health concerns ahead of Glastonbury 2025. Rock legend Sir Rod Stewart revealed earlier in June that he had to cancel or reschedule eight shows in the United States after falling ill. Nevertheless, Stewart is still slated to appear on the iconic Pyramid Stage at Worthy Farm, occupying the coveted legends slot on Sunday afternoon.
The juxtaposition of these two artists’ situations underscores the often unseen challenges performers face behind the scenes. While Stewart’s health issues are physical and Bru-C’s are mental, both highlight the importance of prioritizing wellbeing amid demanding careers.
Glastonbury Festival, founded in 1970 by Michael Eavis, is renowned worldwide for its vibrant atmosphere, diverse musical lineups, and iconic Pyramid Stage. It typically features around 3,000 performances across more than 80 stages, attracting audiences from all over the globe. The festival also emphasizes community spirit, creativity, and environmental consciousness, making it a cultural touchstone in the UK and beyond. The 2025 event promises to be no exception, despite the absence of some scheduled acts.
Bru-C’s decision to cancel his shows, including Glastonbury, may disappoint fans eager to see him live, but it also serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of mental health awareness. In a fiercely competitive industry where artists often feel compelled to push through personal struggles, Bru-C’s openness about his challenges and his commitment to healing offers a vital message of self-care and resilience.
As the music world continues to grapple with these issues, the support from fellow artists and fans alike provides a hopeful backdrop. Bru-C’s journey, though temporarily paused, remains a testament to the power of honesty and the necessity of putting health first. Fans will undoubtedly be watching and waiting for his eventual return, hopeful that he finds the stability and peace he seeks.
