# Jazmine Sullivan’s Shocking Confession: The Truth Behind Her Music Hiatus

Jazmine Sullivan, the Grammy-winning R&B sensation, stunned fans in 2011 by announcing she was quitting music because “it wasn’t fun anymore.” But years later, she revealed a darker reality: an abusive relationship that nearly destroyed her. Her journey from rising star to survivor is a powerful testament to resilience.

Born Jasmine Marie Sullivan on April 9, 1987, in Philadelphia, music ran in her veins. Her mother, Pam, was a backup singer for Philadelphia International Records, home to legends like The O’Jays. At five, the family moved into historic Strawberry Mansion, where young Jazmine sang in church choirs, her contralto voice already mesmerizing.

By 11, she wowed audiences at Showtime at the Apollo with maturity beyond her years. Stevie Wonder, impressed, invited her to his Christmas showcase, where they jammed on “These Three Words.” At 13, she performed alongside him, cementing her destiny.

Signed to Jive Records at 15, Jazmine recorded an album, but it was shelved, and she was dropped. Undeterred, she met Missy Elliott, who became her mentor. Missy’s enthusiasm led to her debut single, “Need U Bad” with Missy in 2008, which topped charts.

Her album *Fearless* (2009) went platinum, peaking at No. 6 on the Billboard 200 and earning Grammy nods. Songs like “Bust Your Windows” became anthems. Success was intoxicating, but it masked a nightmare.

Behind the scenes, Jazmine entered an abusive relationship. It started with verbal attacks and isolation, escalating to physical violence. In one incident, he slapped her so hard she lost hearing in one ear. Emotionally, he convinced her she deserved it, that success meant nothing without him.

Balancing fame and abuse was exhausting. She performed with hidden bruises, smiling through pain. In 2011, she tweeted her exit, citing lack of fun—a lie to hide the truth. “I left music because I was in a really bad relationship. It had gotten abusive,” she later confessed.

During her hiatus, depression hit hard. She found solace in a Pier 1 store, crying among aisles. She contemplated drugs but rebuilt herself. In 2014, she returned with *Reality Show*, inspired by TV binges, chronicling her trauma.

The album debuted at No. 1 on R&B charts, a victory over her past. In 2017, she met Dave Watson, a producer who showed her healthy love. Their bond healed her; they collaborated on music, including “Lost One.”

In 2021, *Heaux Tales* debuted at No. 4 on Billboard 200, winning her first Grammy for Best R&B Album. Tracks like “Pick Up Your Feelings” and “Girl Like Me” became hits.

Today, at 37, Jazmine has two Grammys, a $7 million net worth, and advocacy for domestic violence awareness. Her relationship with Dave is strong, built on respect. She’s a beacon for survivors, proving trauma can fuel triumph.

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