Canadian rapper Dax recently released a video for his song “PTSD” (from his album Pain Paints Paintings) to a ravenous reception, gaining over a million streams on YouTube in its first month. Such success is not new to the 28-year-old (who just so happens to be closing in on a million followers on Spotify), and if he continues to release songs like this it will soon become the norm.
“PTSD”, as the name alludes to, is about a traumatic event in Dax’s life; as he stated on Twitter, it was “inspired by real-life events…I’m praying it reaches those who need it”. Certain aspects of the lyrics (and the video) hit home in an era where it seems like there is at least one mass shooting a month. This is definitely one of those songs that you don’t want to be able to relate to, but unfortunately, many people will. To his credit, Dax takes a subject matter that could be cliched and rote but instead inflicts genuine emotion into his vocals. This is primal scream therapy for modern society,
Sonically, there are highlights throughout. Usually, one would feel that tuning used on the vocal would detract from the raw vibe, but in this case, it works. Although ostensibly a hip-hop song, “PTSD” adds elements of dancehall and a neo-industrial vibe to the auditory palette.
Make no mistake…Dax is definitely going places, and songs like “PTSD” are exhibit A as to why. It’s a song about the brutality of losing a loved one in a brutal manner, yet one that is also full of hope and has the ability to uplift. Do yourself a favor…listen to this song, and then reach out to a loved one and let them know you’re there for them. You’ll be glad you did.
Listen to "PTSD" on Spotify here -
You can check out Dax’s website here: