Through its unprecedented global movement of art and culture, Hiphop has used its unique and collective aesthetic voice to both “possess” and transform the world.  Cornel West argues that “Music is what we need when language fails us, but we cannot remain silent.”  Hiphop’s genius is to combine music and language at a time when we need to speak and build. 

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, Okayplayer has put together a list of 10 hiphop songs from the past and present that address mental health and wellness. Rashad D. Grove writes,
 

“The late Prodigy once said, “hiphop is our therapy.” But the conversation around mental health is constantly evolving beyond that notion— beyond the catharsis of making and consuming music. Hiphop artists have delved deeper into discussing the reality of mental wellness and how it affects their personal and professional lives. From being vocal about getting therapy, to substance abuse, to coping through self-care. All these states of transparency in their music help to promote a fuller understanding of mental health.”

Read the full article HERE and check out the list of songs below. 

 

1. “My Mind Playing Tricks on Me” by The Geto Boys (1991)
    

    

2. “Suicidal Thoughts” by The Notorious B.I.G. (1994)
    

    

3. “Slippin’” by DMX (1998)
    

    

4. “Losing My Mind” by Pharoahe Monch (2014)
    

    

5. “Only Human” by Joe Budden (2015)
    

    

6. “Wounds” by Kid Cudi (2016)
    

    

7. “Mad” by Solange and Lil Wayne (2016)
    

    

8. “1-800-273-8255” by Logic featuring Alessia Cara and Khalid
    

    

9. “XO Tour Llif3” by Lil Uzi Vert (2017)
    

    

10. “Smile” by Jay-Z (2017)