Mental instability lies at the core of many songs that resonate with people throughout their lives. Delving into themes of breakups, family struggles, internal insecurities and broader mental health issues. While these songs serve as time capsules for listeners, the artists themselves often use their music as a medium to address mental health.
KWVA DJ Mike Duncan, also known as DJ The Lonely Guy, reflects on his three-decade journey with the radio station and openly discusses his own battle with OCD, offering valuable insights to those grappling with mental health challenges.
“I battle with OCD and making playlists every week is a healthy habit to fixate on,” Duncan said. “Music is such a therapeutic outlet to help others with mental health issues.”
Some songs and albums speak directly to the battle with mental wellbeing. These are a few.
“Institutionalized” by Suicidal Tendencies
“Institutionalized” by Suicidal Tendencies is spoken from the perspective of a young person who feels isolated while living in a unstable household. Mike Muir, the lead singer stated, “When I was younger a lot of my friends, they said, ‘I hate my dad.’ He’d come home drunk and beat them and do all that kind of stuff. They’d say, ‘He’s an a–hole, he’s a drunk.’ And they’re sitting there drinking while they’re telling the story. And I go, ‘Dude, you’re missing the point. You’re feeling sorry for yourself, but don’t become that same person.”
“Today” by The Smashing Pumpkins
“Today” by The Smashing Pumpkins serves as a poignant cry for help from the lead singer, Billy Corgans, following his depression after a near suicide attempt. Corgan sang, “Today is the greatest day I’ve ever known. Can’t live for tomorrow, tomorrows much too long. I’ll burn my eyes out before I get out.” This is an upbeat song with troubling lyrics, which is representative of the internal battle of mental health.
“Alone Again (Naturally)” by Gilbert O’Sullivan
“ Alone Again (Naturally)” by Gilbert O’ Sullivan is an ode to Sullivan’s struggle with his doubt in his faith. Sullivan sang, “Talk about God in His mercy, For if He really does exist, Why did He desert me, In my hour of need?” This introspective ballad provides insight on Sullivan’s outlook on suicide after being left at the alter, contemplating if there is a God.
“The Dark Side of the Moon” by Pink Floyd
The album “The Dark Side of the Moon” put out by the British rock band, Pink Floyd, sold 15 million copies in tribute to the founder of the band, Syd Barrett. Barrett had a genetic disposition to schizophrenia and later experienced psychosis due to multiple contributing factors. The mix of psychedelic instrumentals and daunting background vocals shine through in songs such as “Us and Them,” “Great Gig in the Sky” and “Breathe (In The Air).”
There’s an immense amount of multi-faceted emotions that come with mental health. It’s not an easy journey, but it can feel easier to listen to those who are grappling with similar experiences. The different types of poetry being prevailed through these songs continue to live on years after their releases.
