It was a pleasure to attend the conference series, discussing Hip-Hop‘s relationship with health over the past 50 years!
On Friday, April 7th Men’s Health Magazine hosted their annual Hip-Hop Health Panel. Taking place at the luxury Soho Works workspace at the edge of Dumbo Brooklyn, in New York City. This year’s Hip-Hop Health Panel featured Doug, E. Fresh, Dr. Olajide Williams, rapper Lute (signed to J. Cole’s Dreamville Records), and Nick Cannon for an exclusive, and vulnerable sit down. In order to exchange experiences on Hip-Hop, and its connection to mental health from a black man’s understanding.
The Hip-Hop Public Health (HHPH) organization is a non-for-profit, award-winning, and globally recognized organization. Utilizing the use music as a tool to encourage health equity in disparaged communities, especially children grades K-12. The organization was Co-founded by panelists, music icon Doug E. fresh, and Dr. Olajide Williams, Chief of neurology at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital. Its evident impact and success has most notably captured the attention of our First Lady Michelle Obama. Resulting in catapulting her “Let’s Move” campaign. Setting the organization’s influence, and credibility in stone.
For the second annual panel series entitled “Mind Over Music”. The discussion ventured into analyzing and embracing the relationship between black men, hip-hop, and mental health. Hoping to obliterate the stigma around emotional openness, in comparison to the traditional views of black men’s emotional and behavioral welfare. The night’s discussion unpacked various emotional struggles. The unique struggle of being a famous black man, crying, and the resources and tools used to work through emotional pains.
Panelists discussed the stress, and expectations of their role in their community. Including the struggle for balance after becoming famous. From wearing gaudy jewelry, to having bodyguards, and the negative energy that can create. Each panelist also candidly shared the last time they cried. The last time they cried in private, public, how frequently they indulge in a tear session, and how they always feel strength and relief after shedding some. Above all, the most important message was finding the soul’s strength. Understanding, one’s ability to manifest, and the importance of being grounded in your true self. By way of professional therapy, and self awareness.
Never failing to passionately impact their audience through music healing, the Hip-Hop Health advocates continue to find new long lasting opportunities, and groundbreaking ways to enhance quality of life for all! Continue to support this movement by following Men’s Health Magazine, the Hip-Hop Public Health (HHPH) Organization and be sure to attend the next annual Hip-Hop Health Panel!