Released: 2020 • Features: Lil Uzi Vert, Juice WRLD, Chance the Rapper
“PTSD” by G Herbo featuring Lil Uzi Vert, Juice WRLD, and Chance the Rapper is a plaintive anthem that delves into the raw and unvarnished reality of street life, underscoring the psychological toll it takes. The song title refers to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, framing the narrative around the mental health struggles that stem from harsh environments and the impact of violence.
The opening verse by G Herbo paints a stark picture of his experiences growing up in the gritty streets of Chicago, referencing the death of friends and the constant threat of imprisonment. Words like “war zone inside of my head” and “eternal PTSD” vividly depict the lingering trauma from these experiences. Dropping a line about Chief Keef, a fellow Chicago rapper, Herbo alludes to the parallels in their experiences.
Shifting gears to the chorus, we see the repetition of “I got a war zone inside of my head”. This persistent echo underscores the resonance of trauma, the lasting effects that cloud the mind and influence one’s perspective on the world.
Chance the Rapper’s verse relays a haunting memory of witnessing a shooting, using the imagery of a video game (San Andreas) to shed light on the desensitization to violence. His ending lines – “I still think about all my niggas that’s dead” – evoke the impact of loss on mental wellbeing.
Lil Uzi Vert’s verse continues the narrative of paranoia and fear, speaking on the ennui that comes from living under constant threat. His words: “Draining all my energy, no, I cannot sleep, I’m affected by the streets, no appetite, I can’t eat” – emphasize the toll such experiences can take not only on mental but also physical health.
In sum, “PTSD” is a powerful exploration of mental health in contexts often overlooked. It underscores, with poignant clarity, the impact of environmental factors on psychological wellbeing, bringing the pressing conversation of mental health in the hip-hop community to the forefront.
