I'm sure most of you have heard Logic's "1-800-273-8255" hit song that has been probably driving you nuts because of how overplayed it is. (Just like every song that's on the radio nowadays) To be honest, at a first listen, I really did not like his new hit. I was unaware of the title being the suicide hotline, therefore, the lines, "I just wanna die today" repeated several times made me feel like it was almost encouraging this kind of behavior and thoughts. However, after really giving the song a listen and realizing the name of the song, I found it very empowering. After the VMA's recently aired, there was much praise and mention of Logic's performance of the song. At the end of the performance Logic speaks to the audience stating,

"I just want to thank you so much for giving me a platform to talk about something that mainstream media doesn't want to talk about, mental health, anxiety, suicide, depression and so much more than I talk about on this album. From racism, discrimination, sexism, domestic violence, sexual assault and so much more. I don't give a damn if you're black, white, or any color in between. I don't care if you're Christian, Muslim, you're gay or straight, I am here to fight for your equality. Because I believe that we are all born equal, but we are not treated equally, and that is why we must fight. We must fight for the equality for every man, woman and child regardless of race, religion, color, creed and sexual orientation."

I have a newfound respect and admiration for Logic and what he stands for with his music. I also find his addition of Alessia Cara, as well as Khalid, was a deliberate choice because of the fact they are both up and coming, mainstream artists. Also, Alessia Cara is a very strong advocate for self-love and positivity which also goes along with Logic's plea for a movement of peace and positivity thus I find his choice in having Alessia feature to be again, deliberate. After watching his performance on the VMA's, I was curious to watch the music video. It is definitely a must-see and hits such strong, important issues that must be addressed. I have linked the video here.

It follows the life of a young black teen who is confronted with the difficulties of 'coming out' to his parents and his school. He was more so confronted and outed versus his deliberate decision to be open about his sexuality. There is clear resistance from his parents and causes him to stray from home and even sleep at school. It depicts the struggles he is going through alone until his track coach steps in and identifies that there is a problem. As a future educator, I found this specific part of the video moving because many people do not realize that teachers sometimes are the most important people in young people's lives. Sometimes students don't have anyone to turn to and can confide in teachers for help and guidance.

I appreciate and respect what Logic is working towards and what he stands for. It's refreshing to see an artist who is actively and publicly voicing these issues that "mainstream media doesn't want to talk about".

Well done, Logic.