Hip-Hop is truly growing up.

Back in the day, rappers held close to their heart the idea of “Keeping it Real.” This emotional disguise has led many to an early grave via drugs, violence or suicide.  Nowadays, many in the culture have found alternative ways to deal with trauma and depression and the leaders in the industry has added their voices to the growing choir. Organizations like Silence the Shame are making the difference.

Recently, Silence the Shame partnered with MusiCares in New York City to present The Soundtrack Of Mental Health Vol.2. The Soundtrack of Mental Health Vol. 2 was a community conversation and panel discussion that addressed the stigma associated with mental illness. The event was held in the atrium of Island Records and featured a powerful group of panelists, that included Founder of Silence the Shame Shanti Das, New York Times best-selling author and radio host Charlamagne Tha God, Founder/CEO of Family Tree Entertainment Michael “Blue” Williams, Board Certified Psychiatrist Cynthia Lewis, SVP of Marketing and Brand Partnerships at Atlantic Records Joi Brown, Music Executive David Lighty, and Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Dr. Randolph Sconiers.

The event was held to kick off May which is National Mental Health Awareness Month and May 5th is National Silence the Shame Day.  The foundation is kicking off their fundraiser to increase funds for programs and scholarships with a national text-a-thon.