Earth to West is a multidisciplinary hip hop artist from Atlanta, Georgia. He was raised in the arts, participating in plays as a child and teenager. He often drew anime characters as a kid, which inspired his love for art. Earth to West has exhibited as a contemporary artist in collaboration with the city of Atlanta and in several private shows on the southern coast. He loves jazz, especially Miles Davis, who influences his rap style. Additionally, he has a passion for cars, sci-fi/fantasy movies, and is heavily into recycling culture. He was inspired to create music because he believes it is the closest thing to freedom on Earth.

DNTSTP: As an influential figure in the music industry, how do you use your platform to advocate for mental health awareness and destigmatization, and what do you hope to convey to your audience through your music and public presence on this important issue?

As a hip-hop artist and media founder, I use my platform to advocate for mental health awareness and destigmatization in several ways. Firstly, through my music, particularly in songs like "I am not depressed," I aim to convey messages of hope, resilience, and the importance of seeking help when needed. By sharing personal experiences and emotions in my music, I hope to create a space where listeners feel understood and supported in their mental health journeys.

In addition to my music, I leverage my public presence and media platform to raise awareness about mental health issues, challenge stigmas, and promote open conversations. I collaborate with mental health professionals, share resources, and encourage my audience to prioritize their mental well-being. Through interviews, social media posts, and live events, I strive to normalize discussions about mental health and encourage others to prioritize self-care and seek help when necessary.

Overall, my goal is to use my influence and platform to contribute to a culture where mental health is treated with the same importance as physical health, and where individuals feel empowered to prioritize their mental well-being without fear of judgment or stigma.

DNTSTP: In an industry known for its high-pressure environment, what strategies and practices have you personally found helpful in maintaining mental well-being and balance while pursuing your career as a rapper and public figure?

As a rapper and public figure in the music industry, I've discovered several strategies that are crucial for maintaining my mental well-being and balance amidst the high-pressure environment.

One of my go-to practices is hiking, which allows me to immerse myself in nature, disconnect from work stress, and gain a fresh perspective. Additionally, reading serves as a form of escapism and learning, providing me with insights that fuel my creativity and offer mental nourishment.

Engaging in various art forms beyond music, such as painting and drawing, serves as a therapeutic outlet for expressing emotions and exploring new ideas. Mindfulness and meditation play a pivotal role in staying grounded and managing anxiety, helping me cultivate a sense of calm and resilience. Overall, prioritizing a balanced lifestyle that includes exercise, healthy habits, and meaningful social connections contributes significantly to my mental well-being and ability to navigate the challenges of my career while staying true to myself.

DNTSTP: Your influence extends beyond music into the realms of social consciousness and cultural impact. How do you harness your platform to empower your audience in their mental health journeys, and what message do you hope to impart to readers about the intersection of mental well-being and overall wealth, beyond financial success?

As a rapper, I leverage my platform to empower my audience in their mental health journeys by sharing personal experiences, encouraging open conversations, and promoting self-care practices. Through my music, I aim to normalize discussions about mental health, challenge stigmas, and inspire listeners to prioritize their well-being. I emphasize the importance of seeking help when needed, practicing self-awareness, and embracing resilience in the face of challenges.

Beyond financial success, I believe that true wealth encompasses mental well-being, emotional fulfilment, and spiritual growth. My message to readers is that while financial prosperity is valuable, it is incomplete without inner peace and mental resilience.

I advocate for a holistic approach to wealth that includes nurturing mental health, maintaining meaningful relationships, pursuing passions, and finding purpose in life. By addressing the intersection of mental well-being and overall wealth, I hope to inspire individuals to prioritize self-care, invest in personal growth, and cultivate a balanced life that encompasses both material success and emotional fulfilment.