Powerful VMA Performance Is a Blessing for Suicide Awareness
Music has always been a powerful tool to carry important messages and make people feel strong feelings. Hip hop artist Logic did exactly that and used his time at the 2017 Video Music Awards to make a very crucial statement. The 27-year-old musician performed a heart-wrenching rendition of his single “1-800-273-8255” which he wrote when he was at a bad point in his life and contempled suicide.
The song, which is named after the phone number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, inspired a record number of call-ins for the organization. Lifeline representatives said they received a whopping 50 percent more calls after the performance than they do on an average day.
John Draper, director of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, told CNN: “The impact has been pretty extraordinary. On the day the song was released, we had the second-highest call volume in the history of our service.”
“Over the years so many of you guys have told me that my music has helped you through so many tough times,” Logic wrote in a series of tweets from April. “Many of you have told me its even saved your life. I’m beyond humbled. But I felt I haven’t done enough. … I made this song for all of you who are in a dark place and can’t seem to find the light.”
Logic’s brave song will hopefully inspire many more people to seek help when life seems bleek and let them know that nobody is ever alone with their problems.
