“1-800-273-8255” is a powerful song by Logic featuring Alessia Cara and Khalid. Released in 2017, it tackles the sensitive topic of mental health. The song title is the phone number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline in the United States. Through its lyrics and emotional delivery, the song represents the disorders of depression and suicide, shedding light on the importance of seeking help and providing hope to those who may be struggling.
Depression is an insidious psychological malady manifesting as a lingering grief, loss of enthusiasm or gratification, sensations of wretchedness, and an absence of energy. Suicidality, in contrast, is the harrowing action of deliberately ending one’s own life. The song “1-800-273-8255” speaks to both of these phenomena, resulting in an emotionally charged melody for those dealing with mental health struggles.
Logic’s lyrics vividly portray the pangs of dejection and desperation that tend to accompany depression. The chorus, sung by Alessia Cara, incessantly intones, “I don’t want to be alive; I just want to die today” (Logic, 2017). These words illustrate the intense wretchedness and the craving for freedom from suffering that numerous people with depression can identify with. Furthermore, Logic’s verses analyze the inner battles people endure when managing depression, such as feeling ensnared and detached.
The track proffers optimism by accentuating the necessity of obtaining assistance. The song’s name serves as a prompt that assistance is accessible through the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Logic’s words reinforce this communication, stimulating listeners to seek help and solace from others. In the bridge, Khalid sings, “I know where you’ve been, where you are, where you’re going; I know you’re the reason I believe in life.” (Logic, 2017). This line implies that some people can relate to the suffering and supply aid, consequently providing a rationale to persist in their struggle.
The anthem, “1-800-273-8255,” by Logic featuring Alessia Cara and Khalid, symbolizes the agony of depression and suicide. The composition is an ode to the despondency and frustration accompanying this ailment, providing a beacon of solace and encouragingly escalating the discourse on mental health. This masterpiece reminds us that seeking aid is essential and that those in need are not alone. It has had a substantial effect on raising awareness of mental health and inspiring sincere conversations about it.
Reference
Logic. (2017). 1-800-273-8255. [Song]. On Everybody [Album]. Visionary Music Group and Def Jam Recordings.