Falling Off the Wagon
As the 70s dawned, the destructive dance of heroin and alcohol began to tarnish her musical brilliance. Then, in February, Joplin embarked on an unexpected journey to Brazil. There, amid vibrant festivities and sun-kissed beaches, she miraculously kicked her addictions, finding solace in the arms of the wholesome, drug-free backpacker, David Niehaus. Their radiant smiles, captured in a photograph at the Rio de Janeiro Carnival, was a testament to their joyous, healthy, and carefree existence.
When Joplin returned to American soil, she quickly fell back into old habits, rekindling her relationship with the unpredictable and drug-addicted Peggy Caserta. Intriguingly, she also took up residence in the picturesque town of Larkspur, California. However, her dark secret was unveiled when Niehaus discovered her injecting drugs. Heartbroken, he ended their relationship. He had envisioned a whirlwind adventure, traveling the globe with Janis. Perhaps, if she had taken that journey, she might still be serenading us.