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DMX, Kid Cudi, Mac Miller
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Hip hop is a genre often associated with raw expression and social commentary. Since the success of Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five’s “The Message,” more and more rappers have opened up about their personal struggles with mental health issues. Showing vulnerability and honesty in their music has not only helped them heal, but also given them a way to connect with listeners who are going through similar issues.
Songs such as Logic, Alessia Cara and Khalid’s “1-800-273-8255” emphasize the importance of seeking help in times of crisis. Named after the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, the song explicitly speaks about suicidal thoughts and the power of seeking support. Logic’s poignant lyrics and the emotional weight of Cara and Khalid’s vocals convey a powerful message about the importance of mental health awareness and the need for accessible resources. Similarly, Kendrick Lamar’s “i” endorses self-love and resilience, encouraging listeners to find joy and strength within themselves. By repeating the affirmation, “I love myself,” Kendrick reinforces the idea that the path to wholeness begins with self-acceptance.
Below you’ll find 17 songs centered around mental and physical wellness and self-care that will resonate with both their writers and listeners who can relate to their own inner struggles. These songs, along with many others, remind us that happiness and healing are ongoing journeys that involve acknowledging reality and embracing the process.
1. Slippin’ – DMX
On the raw and introspective “Slippin’,” DMX discusses his struggles with substance abuse, legal troubles, and inner demons. Flesh of my flesh, blood of my blood Stand Out was not only a tale of despair, but also a call for perseverance and self-awareness: by openly sharing his weaknesses and acknowledging the need for change, DMX popularized the idea that acknowledging one’s suffering is the first step towards healing.
2. 1-800-273-8255 – Logic, Alessia Cara, Khalid
Logic’s “1-800-273-8255” promoted, and continues to promote, mental health and self-care by addressing the critical issue of suicide prevention. Named after the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, the song features Alessia Cara and Khalid and served as a direct call to those struggling to reach out for help. The song’s chorus, “I wish you were alive,” emphasizes the message of cherishing your life.
3. Who am I – A Diplomat
Though credited to The Diplomats, “Who I Am” is an emotional song written by Juelz Santana. Right from the beginning, the Harlem singer is vulnerable as she sings about crying, her mother’s support, and using music as an escape. Press play above to hear why Juelz paints her “clearest pictures” on record.
4. Juice – Lizzo
Like many of Lizzo’s most famous hits, “Juice” is a heartwarming song about loving your skin. The upbeat song celebrates self-acceptance and body positivity, with the artist embracing her uniqueness and encouraging others to do the same. Lyrics such as “If I shine, you shine too, I was born this way, I don’t have to try” emphasize the importance of recognizing your own worth and embracing your individuality.
5. Self Care – Mac Miller
“Tell them they can take that bullshit somewhere else, self care, I take care of myself, yeah, yeah, we’re alright,” Mac Miller raps on the somber yet meaningful “Self Care.” swimmingIn the wake of personal struggles and intense public scrutiny, the Pittsburgh star reflected on his need for health as a means of healing and a path to self-discovery.
6. Broski – Krept & Conan
source Revenge is sweet, “Broski” is a song about Conan’s business partner, Nyasha “Nash” Chagonda, who tragically committed suicide. In addition to paying tribute to his late friend, the heartfelt song sends a message to listeners struggling with inner conflict. In the final verse, Conan raps, “Sometimes being strong isn’t enough. To anyone who’s keeping their feelings to themselves, I want to say you’re not alone. Pick up the phone, don’t suffer alone.”
7. Stronger – Kanye West, The-Dream, Kelly Price, Kirk Franklin, Chance the Rapper
Kanye West’s “Ultralight Beam” is a transcendent exploration of faith, hope and inner peace. The song’s gospel-inspired sound and uplifting lyrics evoked a sense of spiritual renewal and self-reflection. Ye’s introspective rhymes and Chance the Rapper’s soulful contribution emphasize finding solace in faith and connecting with something greater than oneself. “Ultralight Beam” encouraged listeners to let go of burdens, embrace positivity and seek spiritual fulfilment as a means to sustain mental wellbeing.
8. i – Kendrick Lamar
The affirmation of “I love myself” in Kendrick Lamar’s “i” served as a self-care mantra, encouraging listeners to prioritize their mental and emotional health. By addressing themes of self-acceptance and inner strength, the Isley Brothers-sampling song stressed the importance of cultivating a positive self-image and developing a strong mindset. Pimp the butterfly The powerful words at the end of the song further strengthened the overall vision.
9. Trials and Tribulations – Ace Hood
Ace Hood’s “Trials & Tribulations” is a deeply introspective song that explores the rapper’s personal pain, loss and struggles – all of which were compounded by self-doubt, financial hardship and the pressures of fame. Nevertheless, the Florida native persevered through his faith in God and self-determination. By openly sharing his experiences in this song (and throughout his album of the same name), Ace Hood encourages listeners to face their own challenges head-on.
10. Crooked Smile – J. Cole and TLC
In “Crooked Smile,” J. Cole uses his own imperfect teeth to express a broader message about self-acceptance. With the help of TLC, Cole emphasizes that everyone has flaws and imperfections, and argues that striving for perfection is futile. In the first and second verses, he speaks directly to women, urging them to embrace their natural beauty and reject peer pressure. In the third verse, he shifts the focus to the media, criticizing them for perpetuating unrealistic beauty standards.
11. Blessing – Chance the Rapper and Jamila Woods
Inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement and the birth of his daughter, Chance the Rapper celebrates life’s blessings and acknowledges the importance of faith and positivity in overcoming adversity on “Blessings.” In his heartfelt verse, the Chicago rapper reflects on his journey, highlighting moments of doubt and struggle before finding solace and strength through God and gratitude.
12. Intro – DaBaby
The opening track of his album KirkOn “Intro,” DaBaby provides an introspective portrait of his journey from humble beginnings to newfound fame while grappling with personal losses, including the deaths of his father and grandmother. The poignant reflection highlights the importance of self-care and mental health amid life’s challenges. The song’s departure from his usual subject matter also highlights DaBaby’s growth as an artist.
13. Keep Ya Head Up – 2Pac
2Pac’s “Keep Ya Head Up” was primarily a feminist anthem, challenging misogyny and empowering women with positive affirmations. Pac’s lyrics included pro-abortion politics and critiques of rape culture, underscoring his commitment to addressing real issues through his music. In an interview before his death, he emphasized the role he played in drawing attention to overlooked issues, stating, “Who was singing about black women before ‘Keep Ya Head Up’? Now everyone has a song about black women.”
14. Beautiful – Eminem
Considered by many to be an outstanding track recurrence“Beautiful” was originally written while Eminem was in rehab. VibeEminem revealed that the melancholic song was the only one he produced on the album, explaining, “I think it’s the best song I’ve written sober.” The song documents Eminem’s inner struggles and the effect it had on his mental state, but it also embodies a message of resilience and optimism. By the end of the song, Eminem shifts gears to hope for the future.
15. Smile – Ware and Ade
There is always a reason to laugh, as Ware says in his Shine Not only does the album touch on the political climate of the time, but it also finds DC talent and longtime collaborator ADÉ celebrating self-love and resilience on an upbeat album that encourages listeners to find joy and peace amid life’s challenges.
16. Playing Chess – J Hus
J Huss’ “Playing Chess” was a confident effort that revealed the rapper’s mindset and approach to life. A beautiful yet cruel garden The closer reflects his experiences on the streets and his unwavering pursuit of success. Through vivid imagery and metaphors, J Huss conveys his intensity and passion to face any challenge. The game he played on the track symbolizes the strategic moves he made to overcome obstacles and achieve his goals.
17. Kadi Montage – KIDS SEE GHOSTS
“Cudi Montage” from KIDS SEE GHOSTS is a moving exploration of mental health and resilience, featuring a memorable sample of Kurt Cobain’s “Burn the Rain.” Kid Cudi’s verses frankly address his struggles with depression and addiction, reflecting themes of inner turmoil and the search for peace. Kanye West’s contribution highlights the destructive cycle of violence caused by gang mentality and the need for spiritual relief. Overall, the song promotes self-care by advocating for breaking free from destructive patterns and finding a higher purpose.
