Feelin’ DPRSD? Can Relate…
What’s good, Rap Fiesta family! This post is a lil’ different than our usual content (but it’ll still be fire, no worries).
Many of you loyal followers have seen my work featured on the Rap Fiesta platform for about two years now. And recently, in my spare time, I operate the streetwear brand DPRSD (pronounced depressed), addressing and discussing all things tied to mental health.
I feel incredibly blessed; not only was I randomly connected with Rap Fiesta, but I also get to be part of the team?? Wild. Throughout my time, I’ve been fortunate enough to connect with driven artists, develop my writing skills, and discover some truly HOT music. Writing for Rap Fiesta is dope because I get to combine some of my favorite interests; writing, music, and learning from driven entrepreneurs.
I find myself naturally drawn to music because it blends poetry (one of the most expressive art forms, in my opinion) with audio sensations. And when artists effectively match their lyrics and vocal cadence with the beat’s vibe, music is capable of surfacing emotions buried deep within us.
And that’s easily my favorite part about writing and working with artists on the Rap Fiesta platform. I’ve worked with rappers, singers, creators, producers, etc., who unapologetically address mental health in their craft. It’s the unapologetic style of evoking gut-wrenching emotions and situations these artists pour into their music that my team and I aim to do with DPRSD.
Using journalism/writing and streetwear (clothing), DPRSD attacks the profound expanse that is mental health. The initiative DPRSD takes on is easy in theory but challenging in practice; starting an open and honest conversation about mental health. Our series of articles, entitled “The TearDrop,” showcases individuals who were brave enough to step forward and describe their personal experiences with mental health.
What’s the point?
When people open up about their experiences or struggles with mental health, it allows for inspiration, recognition, and understanding in both themselves and others. Essentially, when we start opening up and being honest, we can start to see how interconnected we are as human beings, regardless of any other factors. Just like the music on Rap Fiesta, DPRSD provides an outlet for self-expression.
Whether making or listening to music, the art form allows us to really feel what we’re feeling. Similarly, whether rocking the streetwear or reading content a part of the TearDrop, DPRSD sheds light on emotions that are too often bottled up.
Mental health is one of the few things all of us as human beings share. It affects every avenue in life and, whether we admit it or not, shapes us into who we are. The DPRSD team has been working relentlessly on evolving the brand, and we’re excited about our second phase of merch dropping soon!
Don’t be lame; check out DPRSD. Talking about mental health is lowkey pretty dope.
xo, your fav Rap Fiesta writer,
Jerksy
