The rapper Blimes is a well-respected artist but her journey hasn't always been easy. To cope with that tumultuous road, the Bay Area native found hope in a brand of artistic expression: schoolyard battle raps.

"Every creative is incredibly sensitive, almost debilitatingly sensitive and we have to find ways to cope," she explains. But, unfortunately, battle raps weren't her only means to escape. "My story took some dark turns," she adds.

Today, Blimes joins "My Years Through My Ears" to share a story of love, addiction, recovery, and ultimately, optimism. She shares this story with a purpose, to influence others who are walking down a similar path. "You’re not alone," she confirms. "I just hope you learn ways to cope quicker than I did."

This is Blimes' years through her ears or a view of her life story through the music that impacted her the most.

Pre Teens — "Alphabet Aerobics" by Blackalicious  

Early Teens — "Passin' Me by by Pharcyde  

Late Teens —   "Spaceship" by Kanye West  

Twenties —   "Drug Ballad" by Eminem 

Thirties — "Game Winner" by Joey Dosik