Music Spotlight: Jez Dior
Jez Dior pulls together hip-hop, alternative, and pop into a powerful and personal patchwork, sharing his struggles and story with the world through his music. He’s always used music as form of therapy and encourages others not to be afraid about opening up. His new album, Handle With Care, is the story of the first 27 years of his life and is the difference between him joining ‘The 27 club’ and living. We got the chance to talk to him about his music and the importance of mental health so check it out.
Today is World Mental Health Day. If you could tell your teenage self about mental health, what would you tell them?
That it’s okay to be different & it’s 100% okay to feel the feelings that you’re feeling. Also, to take a step back & breathe…getting caught up in the moment was very easy when I was younger & a lot of things escalated to a level where they didn’t need to because I was incredibly emotional at that age.
What inspired you to create music about mental health, particularly anxiety and depression?
I’ve always used music as an outlet & form of therapy. I really strongly disliked talking about my feelings when I was younger & found a lot of comfort in writing about my issues through lyrics & song.
How do you deal with anxiety and depression? Any advice for those going through it?
I’ve learned that deep breathing & trying to slow everything down really helps. Life moves at such a fast pace, it’s very easy to get overwhelmed…I also find meditation & exercise incredibly helpful. For me, playing soccer is the best way to take my mind off of things & I always feel better after a workout.
Tell us about Handle With Care and what you hope people take away from it.
I looked at this album as the opportunity to tell the story of the first 27 years of my life and also as an opportunity to be more honest with myself than I have ever been before. I have a voice that reaches kids all over the world & I feel responsible to give them the whole truth in hopes that they can relate to my story & take something positive away from it.
In your opinion, what’s the most interesting thing about you that people may not know?
I’m deathly afraid of heights!
Lighting round! Describe each of the following in one word: Who you are, what you value the most, and what you’d be if you were a food item.
In-N-Out protein style double double with whole grilled onions & chopped chilies
Listen to Jez’s new album, Handle with Care, right here.
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