“See to live is to suffer, but to survive well that’s to find meaning in the suffering”. This is what American rapper DMX tells us in his brutally honest autobiographical song “Slippin’”.

It is difficult to overstate the trauma of DMX’s childhood - and the transformative power of the music he created out of it. Born Earl Simmons, his start in life was marked with abuse, poverty, ill health and abandonment. Funneled into youth institutions - and then into youth incarceration, his early years paved the way for lifelong struggles with mental health, drug addiction and criminality. 

Yet in spite of - or perhaps because of - these experiences, DMX rose to become one of the defining rap artists of the late 90’s and early 00’s, making history as the first artist ever to have his first five albums hit number one in the Billboard charts. A captivating MC, DMX will be remembered for his disarmingly soul-searching lyrics, his emotionally charged performances and his very public, ultimately losing battle with his inner demons.

In this episode, Chula Goonewardene - Clinical Director and Co-Founder of Attune - takes a compassionate dive into the life and checkered career of DMX, informed by his role as a psychotherapist. As the team reflect on the personal and systemic challenges that DMX faced, they discuss his unique ability to channel pain and vulnerability into some of the most powerful rap ever produced.

This week’s ‘One for the Road’ is ‘The Zen of Recovery’, a book Chula was introduced to by his sponsor during his own recovery journey. Written by dharma teacher Mel Ash, this book explores the AA Twelve Steps within the context of Buddhism and Zen practice. You can find it here: https://blackwells.co.uk/bookshop/product/The-Zen-of-Recovery-by-Mel-Ash/9780874777062  

Content Warnings: childhood parental abuse, abandonment trauma, drug use, addiction, overdose, youth incarceration, institutional racism, mental health.

IMPORTANT: Alcohol withdrawal happens once an individual is physically dependent/chemically addicted and can be fatal and should only be attempted with medical guidance/assistance. The most serious form of withdrawal is called delirium tremens, or DTs. People with severe withdrawal symptoms or DTs should always have a drink if they need it while professional help is sought. If in doubt, call 999.

If you or someone you know has been affected by the themes in this episode, there are some useful organisations on Attune’s website that can be of help: www.we-are-attune.com/podcast 

Attune, as a dedicated provider of mental health and well-being services, is committed to delivering holistic support and resources. With its team of skilled professionals, Attune excels in recognising and responding to the intricate needs of people and teams in talent-based industries.

You can learn more about Attune through our website: https://www.we-are-attune.com/

Follow Attune on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/we_are_attune/#

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@weareattune 

and LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/we-are-attune/ 

Empathy For The Devil is produced by Message Heard

Listen to more Message Heard shows through our website: https://messageheard.com/

Follow Message Heard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/messageheard/mycompany/ and Twitter: https://x.com/messageheard?lang=en-GB 

This is a Message Heard Production

Producer and Editor - Emma Werner

Senior Producer - Harry Stott

Executive Producer - Sandra Ferrari

Videographer - Ethan Judd

Audio and Mix Engineer - Lizzie Andrews

Production Coordinator - Kirsty McLean

Filmed at ID Studios