Rhythm of Recovery: Five Songs To Help You Dominate Depression

Have you been going through the most lately? Do you feel alone? Well, you’re not.

Peep (5) songs of suffering that will offer you solid music to listen to as loud as you please in addition to solidarity of the struggle. And know that you’re not alone, Fam.

Mental health issues are increasingly recognized as critical components of societal well-being. The relationship between music and emotional healing has garnered significant attention. Countless studies underscore the profound psychological impact that music can have on individuals grappling with depression e.g. research published in the Journal of Music Therapy indicates that music can serve as a powerful therapeutic tool. Music can provide solace and support by facilitating emotional expression for those burdened by depressive symptoms.

The auditory experience of music not only helps individuals articulate feelings that may be difficult to verbalize but also fosters a sense of connection and unity.

Please accept this offer of five remarkable songs that not only embody the debilitating challenge of depression but also offer an avenue for catharsis and hope. And inspiration for overcoming adversity.

Thankfully there is some assistance in the minefield of psychological burdens. The indispensable role of music in the uphill battle of these challenges faced on fought by so many, every day.

In Rock Bottom; Eminem discussed his life before the break that became a familial bond with Producer & Mentor Dr. Dre. It's a stark reflection of despair that captures the essence of what it feels like to have nothing but still, somehow-muster the will to fight.

My life is full of empty promises and broken dreams
I'm hopin' things look up, but there ain't no job openings
I feel discouraged, hungry and malnourished
Livin' in this house with no furnace, unfurnished

Picture This: A young Eminem, barely scraping by, working dead-end jobs just to keep the lights on and food on the table. There’s a story about how he worked at a family-style restaurant and was fired just five days before Christmas ultimately leaving him feeling like a failure as a father when he was unable to provide a decent Christmas for his daughter. Such real-life experiences are etched into every line of Rock Bottom making it a ballad of bad luck, but an unbreakable spirit of determination to not give up—here is a vivid recount of his survival mode.

Rock Bottom is a true testament of turning pain into purpose. Eminem inspires others to keep pushing forward despite the odds. With every statistic in opposition and all chips stacked against him, his rise to fame proved the positive potential of the individual to defeat the trap of poverty and find success then in turn pay-it-forward in efforts to serve and support others.

While these lyrics of personal journey may be ancient history for the legendary Detroit rapper; this song will live on forever offering a tool for overcoming the feeling of defeat no matter how significant the economic indisposition may be. 

Like many other songs by Marshall, Rock Bottom becomes a testament to the power of authenticity plus the profound impact of sharing one's truth.

2. F**k The World by 2Pac Shakur From Album: Me Against The World

Picture This: A young 2Pac, being raised by a single-working mother, living his adolescence moving city to city, in the apex of the crack-cocaine epidemic, receiving unsolicited assault and harassment from the police, but who was he? He was a young man that gave spirited portrayals of characters in his plethora of performances from Shakespeare plays. He was a kid that talked about the significance of the civil rights movement and the progress of the 1960’s and the power that was generated by the individuals and collectives that dared to ask, why?

He grew up to be the man that was driven and fueled in his mission to serve and support others, make people feel good about bad situations, give hope to the broken and repair the wings of anyone that lost their ability to fly. But was accused of being a criminal by politicians and the media. He was a man that wrote entire songs in tribute to women that were struggling from demoralizing debt and poverty, sexual assault, drug addiction, domestic abuse, gaslighting and discouraging displacement, varieties of pain from overextending themselves to afford food, clothing and shelter for their children or whatever daily misery generated from a tile on the wheel of misfortune.

But was falsely accused of rape in a sinister set-up to have him falsely accused and sentenced to serve a prison sentence, get robbed while working throughout his trial and shot five times in which he survived only to return to the trial that was engineered by individual’s determined to defeat him and destroy his spirit.

F**k The World is a true testament of turning pain into purpose. 2Pac offers constant reassurance that he understands heartache and hopelessness even when there’s seemingly no one else that does. Symbolism of the certainty that you are never alone in your fight. No matter how defeated you may feel, so long as you have a breath left in your lungs or a beat in your heart, that you still possess the power to not only survive, but to return better than ever. Overcoming the trap of malicious opposition, survive and succeed to serve and support others.

2Pac was murdered at age 25 years old, however carried the unflinching ambition to leave the world with more hope than that of which existed before his time on this planet. And in a very short time. The lyrics from this song, unlike many more he wrote; offer the support and encouragement to carry on. That there is always someone that cares and you are not ever left to fight alone. Offering reassurance that there’s always someone in your corner serves as a constant reminder that you matter. And your mental health matters. You always have a partner no matter what the magnitude may be of the problems you are facing.   

Like many other songs by 2Pac, F**k the world becomes a testament to the power of authenticity plus the profound impact of sharing one's truth.

F**k The World offers an incredibly therapeutic chant for anyone feeling the weight of targeting or oppression. Also, giving the damaged and disenfranchised an opportunity to feel empowered by vocalizing refusal and resistance to accept corrupt systems. All adversity and inspiration offered to rise above is a symbolic embodiment representing the genuine gift of sharing one's truth.

In PTOE; Kevin Gates professes the abundance of ups and downs distributed by life in a poignant and no holds-barred fashion. And this is not an isolated instance. You can find fans of Gates maintaining a family-like loyalty that is richly rooted in the raw honesty that is lamented in his lyrics. Kevin Gates showcases bravery in many variations. Fans accept his message in the highest regard as Gates regularly shares stories about his own personal battles with mental health.

Picture This: Kevin Gates as a young and ambitious-aspiring rapper with honesty in his delivery developing a sound that the world would gravitate toward once discovered. Born in New Orleans and moved to Baton Rouge, Louisiana in his youth; Gates would formulate connections in both cities. In a testament to artists producing real, raw, uncut & ubiquitous unity in appreciation-respect & admiration-recognition for other artist nearby making waves in the world of quality music; opportunities would eventually arise.

Boosie Bad Azz & Webbie who were once proteges of the late Texas Legend Pimp C were working with gates in 2008 on Pick of Da Litter which is Gates debut mixtape. Followed by All or Nuthin’ where Gates retroactively discusses by sharing the words "A lot of pain.. A lot of true stories." regarding the musical medicine generated by the collective of Baton Rouge rappers.

Shortly thereafter both Boosie & Gates were imprisoned in unrelated and independent sentencing. As rewarded for good behavior, Gates was issued an early release following 31 months of incarceration. Gates achieved a degree in psychology while behind bars. Setting his focus on a positive goal to achieve after the crushing blow of a sentence that caliber; Kevin Gates is severely struck by these circumstances and still finds a way to identify a positive path to pursue. While sharing these examples of true fortitude with fans; others can bear witness to the possibility of hope no matter how significant the suffering. Producing evidence that in the reality that it could be them as well that turn things around in similar fashion – And they’d be right.

PTOE is an endearing declaration of turning pain into purpose. Along with wife Dreka, the two have established a foundation dedicated to their mission of providing support in mental health issues for the youth. The Kevin & Dreka Gates Foundation. Offers support and resources for anxiety, personal-finance problems, bi-polar disorder, depression and many other issues that are also regularly discussed with amazingly courageous conviction. The foundation also provides programs to better understand these issues. Educate and then eliminate stigma and misunderstanding associated with seeking help. Determination is shared in the dedication to eradicating shame that can hover over some individuals like a black cloud, darkening their days. A truly commendable initiative helping share the wealth of knowledge with others so that they will not stand alone or become isolated in their suffering. This in turn builds the community on a foundation of compassion that can extend to others by way of influence.

Like true leaders before him, he has honored the legacy of great men dedicated in support efforts of those in need. Additionally, took it to a level beyond which is displayed in his many contributions to fans and others, offering support systems, healing practices and the right or wrong honesty conveyed in his music. All these components collectively construct the heroic ability to accept hurt and redistribute that energy, repurposed as unconditional healing and understanding. Gates uses his music as well as public appearances as opportunities to share with others his own personal demons so that anyone in pain can find inspiration and hope from similar struggles they may be dealing with.

Gates has openly discussed the moment in his advanced depression that he made the decision to end his own life and his announcement of taking a separation period from social media sources as they were not conducive to his mental health. These stories help disprove the misinformation that expressing feelings is indicative of vulnerability; conversely, they are actually the earmarks of true bravery. A commitment to living a righteous life and sharing what he’s discovered with others. Furthermore, from music to general communication, Gates vocally encourages anyone suffering to reach out for support. This cannot be stressed enough. The strongest of individuals that have walked this earth experience pain as well. Reaching out is by all means the most courageous decision an individual can make. You are not alone in this arena of pain and punishment. You have other people hurting in the same fashion and there’s nothing more that would generate more cheer than your involvement. You hold infinite importance in this world – please just give the process time for you to understand this fundamental truth with an equally engaging credence.

In an additional and supplementary measure Gates has initiated; you can also find several videos he has available for free online discussing depression. Including triggers, personal wisdom achieved in times of heightened severity and resources available to anyone that could possibly benefit from this gracious outreach. You will find an endless library of shared experiences that will serve as proof that there is hope. There are ways to conquer all debilitating damages tormenting oneself at any given time-there is always hope. As well as a road that can lead you to a brighter place. There is always someone that doesn’t feel as if they are deserving of this kind of love and it is not true. You can find all these materials offered online. You can also read more about the Kevin & Dreka Gates Foundation committed to the mission of eradicating all stigma of mental health and substituting shame with life-lessons & game.

Moreover, Gates has been known to engage directly with fans, offering words of encouragement and advice during meet-and-greet events. He often shares motivational messages about perseverance and self-love, reminding individuals that they are not alone in their battles. His authenticity and willingness to share his journey have inspired many to confront their own issues, cultivating a sense of solidarity among those who listen to his music.

Like many other songs by Kevin Gates, PTOE becomes a cosmic force of support and a living, walking, breathing example of the power in authenticity plus the profound impact of sharing one's truth.

In Cancer; Boosie delivers as always with a song that makes you feel something by way of direct and dedicated writing no matter what the topic. However, this song in particular Boosie especially impresses due to the lion-like courage from his public disclosure that he had been diagnosed with kidney cancer. Boosie lays it all on the line. An amazing personification of true fearlessness and commitment to his character after being diagnosed with this invasive and deadly disease. In heroic fashion and staying true to his craft; he doesn’t keep anything hidden. Boosie confronts it head on.

Picture This: It’s 2015. Rapper Boosie Badazz pka Lil Boosie. Real name is Torrence Hatch, bravely shared his recent kidney cancer diagnosis with the public. He revealed that music had been his sanctuary amid this medical turmoil. In November 2015, doctors discovered a tumor-then come December he had undergone a significant surgery to remove half of his kidney successfully.

Following that Boosie has been actively battling the disease. In a poignant interview he gave to Revolt TV-he opened up about the moment he learned of his diagnosis. "I got an MRI, that motherf**ker (doctor) came back like, 'We found something on your kidney'," he recalls. "(he said), 'You know you got cancer', and that's when they told me.
That was the first time I found that out."

Boosie remained true to his passion so when he got the news, he went directly to the music to navigate this challenging period. He channeled his emotions into his album In My Feelings (Goin' Thru It). And in Cancer he chronicles his clash with the disease. Pulling no punches and sugarcoating nothing.

Boosie’s always been a stand-up guy from day one. But his reaction to the news he received and his reciprocated loyalty to his fans with artistic dedication is a shining example of transfiguring acute pain into intrepid purpose.

Boosie’s decision to share this personal struggle openly underscores his commitment to his fan-base and his trade. The infinite honor in his honesty and his nature. Faithfully reflecting his integrity as an artist and honor as a man. Boosie is determined to remain transparent with his followers, ensuring that even in the face of significant challenges, his authenticity and connection with his audience remain unbreakable. Boosie and his offering of personal pain are a gift to anyone now and beyond that are suffering from a similar ailment. Boosie’s actions are a demonstration of his resolve and one that anyone can utilize resourcefully to give themselves strength to battle great agony. Boosie provides hope to so many that could have potentially abandoned the required persistence.

These lyrics are prime representation of his assiduous resolute to stand up in response to a disease that has claimed so many lives. Instantly Boosie’s badge of bravery sends an energetic surge of hope to many others plagued by this disease. The commitment to code, and to his fans, casts a net wide enough to broadcast his testimony throughout the world. For many this can establish or renew optimism when losing stamina. Boosie invites fans into a deeply personal arena where he battles with the fiercest opponents known in existence.

This experience significantly impacted him both physically and emotionally.

With Cancer he courageously opens-up about his struggles with the disease, conveying the fear and uncertainty comprised with emotional turbulence often associated with such a diagnosis. The verses serve as a raw testament to his virtue, showcasing not just his personal fight with cancer but the broader implications of battling illness.

The experience of facing mortality head-on has allowed Boosie to connect with many listeners who may be grappling with relatable health matters or personal adversities. He uses his platform to shed light on throes that are often stigmatized and hidden. Thereby fostering a sense of solidarity among those who feel isolated in their battles. Without hesitation, Boosie portrays a spectacularly organic response. Sharing this contribution of valor perfectly personifies the healing powers in sharing one's truth.

The song One Day by UGK Featuring Mr. 3-2 & Ronnie Spencer is a melodically delivered dedication discussing ruthless casualties that are seemingly growing to be all too common occurrence in the United States. A confession and reflection with contemplations of one’s own mortality. This song has only grown more impactful with time. Intensified when reality comes into focus, and you remember that one-half of U.G.K. artist Pimp C (Birth Name: Chad Butler) is gone. A devastating loss, and dismally; he is not the only one missing from this song. Pimp C is the brilliant mind behind the production for this record as well as delivering an unforgettable verse. The world lost Pimp C in 2007. It can be a powerfully sobering sentiment. Even greater than the reaction following the song’s release-as it has always been an incredible track. It is a direct line into the human soul.

3^rd Verse: Pimp C
Man, it's a trip where I stay, especially for me
Them bitches tryna lock me up for the whole century
They gave my nigga Donny forty, Dante nineteen
I wish that we could smoke again and take a tight lean
My world a trip, you can ask Bun B, bitch, I ain't no liar
My man BoBo just lost his baby in a house fire (Oh yeah)
And when I got on my knees that night to pray, I asked God
Why You let these killers live and take my homeboy's son away?
Man if you got kids, show you love 'em 'cause God just might call 'em home
'Cause one day, they're here and, baby, the next day, they're gone

More tragedy to follow with Mr. 3-2 (Birth Name: Christopher Juel Barriere) losing his life suddenly from a senseless act of aggression on 11/10/2016 in Houston, TX – A place where sadly these things can happen all too frequently. Mr. 3-2 was a veteran rapper from Houston and consistently delivered blessings with the pen to any record of his own or that he appeared on. One Day is no exception. However, what is already an amazing and cherished verse by so many; there is an element of a slightly haunting nature given the subject matter of the song and his words. 3-2 recites contemplations of an early death. Being from Houston and experiencing grief and loss at the scale so many of us have can be difficult at times. And regardless of the response sometimes delivered in that you’ve “gotten used to it” because it can be the first thing that comes to mind when you don’t want to think about another brother taken away; nobody really gets used to it. I pray that we never do. We just tattoo the skin and mash on while contemplating ourselves being next in the order. Prepared, absolutely. From day one. Yet, I’d be lying if I told you I saw it all occurring so rapidly.

1^st Verse: Mr. 3-2
My mama's only son
But I live every day like it's my motherfuckin' last one
Every nigga and they mama askin' why
But I'm in the game, live by the game, and in the game, Ima die
And if I die, or should I say, if I go
Bury me in Hiram Clarke next to the Come N Go
'Cause tomorrow ain't promised to me
The only thing promised to a player is the penitentiary
So I'ma take care of my business on the smooth tip
Watch my back, sellin' crack and pack two clips
And when you think about that, you say, "It'll be on"
It's a trip you're here today, but the next day, you're gone

The good men that are Pimp C and Mr. 3-2 departed from the planet far too soon. But they did leave the world with some of the best music in existence to honor eternally their legacy. And this song reigns supreme, With Pimp C’s production and a sample from 1974 Isley Brothers record Ain't I Been Good to You (Part 1 & 2), Ronnie Spencer delivering the gold standard of a soulful chorus contribution; Bun B as you likely guessed – Penning a profound and unforgettable sixteen sending chills down your spine, this song is as much of an amazing memorial as it is part of the collaborative talent historically overlooked in relation to artists from South Texas. This tribute offers any listeners who have lost somebody close to them a place of shelter from the storm. In hearing the words dedicated to the fellowship of other men that have experienced this cataclysm of chaos and carnage first-hand. This track provides anyone suffering from loss communion and comradery created honorably by the supreme collective of outstanding artists together contributing a ballad of loss for all our loved ones passed. At any rate, whether the loss you’ve suffered is recent or advanced to the point of formulated scar tissue on the soul; This song serves as a reliable outlet in times of grief. A favorable utility that can act as gospel assisting in carrying one through these sometimes-unbearable moments of mourning.

Picture This: In the time of UGK’s rise to fame and recognition, an uphill battle was fought with very little national radio stations spinning Southern artists music at the time. UGK was blessed with a very loyal fan that attended shows and offered love, support and a multitude of blessings from the beginning and through times bad, better and in between – This was a remarkable and marvelous woman dressed in red and endearingly known as “Mama Wes.”
Weslyn Monroe (Mama Wes) was a pivotal figure in Pimp C's life and career. She played a crucial role as UGK's manager and was instrumental in the group's success. She was also his Mama. Referring to both legendary members of UGK as “her babies” and genuinely the Mama who watched over and encouraged the creations of her son and his best-friend, partner in music and in any and every world-his brother, Bun B.
She was an instrumentally active and loving, guiding figure in Chad Butler's (Pimp C) world and upbringing. Mama and manager. Pimp C was born prematurely facing numerous health issues associated such as a birth defect that required leg braces with disruptive digestive problems. Despite these challenges Mama Wes encouraged his commitment in his music and development of his musical talents. Total support of him blessing the game with his own voice, she even played a major role in helping him develop his unique style.
Weslyn Monroe passed away on the morning of August 19, 2013, at the age of 66 after battling an aggressive illness. She would finally reunite with her son again. Bun B would deliver a eulogy dedication at her funeral services and recount stories that personified her fierce dedication as mother to Chad and a mother to both men as a group-and bonded in brotherhood. Guided in love, this kinship and connection that only grew stronger for everyone was a prime example of learning from the pain endured and turning that pain into a powerful purpose.

2^nd Verse: Bun B
I remember being eight deep off in Chucky crib
Lettin' us act bad, not givin' a fuck what we did
When we lost him, I knew the world was comin' to the end
And I had to quit lettin' that devil push me to a sin
My brother been in the pen for damn near ten
But now it look like when he come out, man, I'm goin' in
So, shit, I walk around with my mind blown in my own fuckin' zone
'Cause one day, you're here, the next day, you're gone

Chorus & 3^rd Verse: Ronnie Spencer & Pimp C Respectively
One day, you're here, baby
And then you're gone - The next day, you're gone
One day, you're here, baby
And then you're gone

The lyrics contributed in One Day by all men who worked on this song; lead listeners on a journey into the transient and ostensibly fleeting, general nature of our existence here on earth. With an emphasis on the joyous moments that we reminisce on to be our protection as we press-on thru the painful presence of memories and ghosts. The artists involved paint an astonishingly accurate picture of ghetto reality in Texas. And not exclusively, but similar circumstance in other cities than Houston.

Throughout the tearful reckoning of countless lives lost by the artists collaborating on this song; there does exist a light in it all. The bonds formulated by the creators of this record extend vicariously to anyone who has suffered loss. Anyone growing up or existing in an environment where you learn fast that the next time you see your friend, family, loved one; sadly, could be the last.
Cities like Houston can relate to this circumstance all too intimately. However, one weapon that it does offer you in return is the appreciation of who you have here right now, at this very moment in time. It helps you think about things like that silly and nonsensical argument you had with your friend-was it really that serious? Go tell them you’re sorry right now and cherish your time together. Celebrate every minute you get with them and be the best friend or relative that has historically existed. Lead with your heart and give your people flowers while they’re still here.

This song will continue marching in time, influencing people positively and precautioning those unaware or unprepared. Plus providing a safe space for people to learn the skill of expressing emotions and not holding them in. Burying them so deep that they cannot breathe. Only building pressure, becoming bigger until they inevitably burst.

Listeners will learn skills sharing in the song’s expression of struggle and triumph. A lesson in this record one can forever find useful is the importance of discussing pain and expressing hurt. One Day is the benchmark in referencing how to execute the therapeutic process of speaking out and the magnificent healing powers of sharing one's truth.

Disruptive, disturbing or unwelcome thoughts and depression manifest as a pervasive issue within society. Affecting millions irrespective of age, class, title, race, religion, gang, organization, yacht club, biker bar, British pub, blood type, eye color, batting average, social status or any other artificial profile. These disorders possess zero prejudice. And they can impact anyone. It is a silent assailant by standard perception. Very often exacerbated by isolation. A common method deployed in times of grief or loss. And more than not making matters worse.

The psychological ramifications are colossal. And they don’t just end abruptly when someone passes. Or the crushing sensation and impression of helplessness felt by loved ones of someone when they take their own life. If not properly nurtured it can evolve in itself and grow to limitless and disastrous proportions. The necessity to identify effective outlets and therapeutic practices cannot be overstated.

Music possesses an inherent ability to evoke emotions and memories. It can surpass its standard in service as entertainment, behaving more appropriately as a friend or confidant.

 But it is not the all-encompassing remedy. You must reach out.

As humans, we are hardwired to exist amongst others and satisfy our tribal nature. We all need community. Don’t try to do it alone. It’s not a question of strength or independence; it simply will not provide wholeness or fulfillment. The fallacy that reaching out to others is in any way related to your constitution is a concept entirely fabricated by man and does not exist on a metaphysical or spiritual plane. It’s a trap.
You are not alone in your suffering. And even if you can’t identify someone immediately in your near network that you trust; I can personally guarantee that there’s more people beyond that border that would be lining up around the corner to help. Please find a way to let them.