Song Release: 1-800

American rapper “Logic” released a song on April 28, 2017 titled 1-800-273-8255, by which he refers to the phone number of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. With the release of this song, the artist partnered with the organization to send a powerful message to all of his listeners about why suicide is tragic and preventable. In the verses, Logic speaks to someone on the lifeline and expresses many of the emotions and opinions that coincide with those of suicidal people. The person on the other end of the phone responds, telling him that he doesn’t have to die because he’s not alone – there are other people in the world going through the exact same thing, and even though he cannot always see it, that there’s hope. After talking to the respondent on the lifeline, the singer comes to the realization that, despite the evident hardship ahead of him, he wants to continue living.

In an interview with Too Fab Logic was asked why he made 1-800 about a gay couple. His response was that in creating the song he made it for everybody, and in the video he wanted to depict people whom he believes struggle in the course of life more so than many others. His goal, by extension, is to fight for equality for every individual, no matter their race, religion,  or sexual orientation, in the hopes of sending a positive message to all. Also, he wants people to know that even though one may not understand someone’s way of life, it doesn’t mean one is justified in disrespecting them or putting them down for being themselves.

The 1-800 song and music video provide a powerful message in two ways – to the people who are themselves struggling with emotional hardship or repression, and to those who are mistreating others by repressing or condemning their differences. If you, a friend, a loved one, or someone you know is in such a circumstance, please do not hesitate to call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Visit their website here, or find more information from the International Association for Suicide Prevention here.