The stigma surrounding mental illness has steadily diminished over the past decade, largely thanks to its increasing presence in pop culture. As a generation, we’ve been granted the privilege of consuming media that not only encourages open dialogue about mental health but also emphasizes the significance of seeking professional help. One artist embodying this shift is the maestro of music production, Zoocci Coke Dope, with his evocative album, Anxiety.
Released almost two years ago, Anxiety remains as poignant and relevant as the day it dropped. Spanning 13 meticulously crafted tracks, the album doesn’t merely nod to its title—it fully embodies it, delving into the intricate realities of living with anxiety disorder. In an interview with The Sobering Podcast, Zoocci disclosed that the project draws heavily from his personal experiences, making it an intimate exploration of the intersections between mental health, creativity, and life’s complexities.
Timed with Mental Health Awareness Day on October 10th, revisiting Anxiety offers a perfect opportunity to reflect on the themes Zoocci unpacks: self-acceptance, solitude, self-doubt, paranoia, and the rollercoaster duality of living with anxiety.
THE ACCEPTANCE OF SELF
The album opens with the title track, “Anxiety,” which sets the introspective tone. Through spoken word clips layered with sparse instrumentation and Zoocci’s candid verse, the track explores the transformative power of self-acceptance.
The first clip features a woman’s voice reassuring, “You’re accepted right where you’re at, and wherever that leads to finding your own peace and happiness.” This simple yet profound statement challenges the misconception that mental illness makes happiness unattainable, emphasizing that finding peace begins with embracing oneself.
In contrast, the second clip offers a stark perspective: “I’m actually not controlling my anxiety because that is the pitfall… The bad news is, it really doesn’t work very well.” By spotlighting the often futile desire to “cure” anxiety, Zoocci underscores the importance of learning to coexist with mental illness rather than waging war against it.
The Solitary Creature
Solitude emerges as a recurring theme on Anxiety, and Zoocci Coke Dope examines it with poignant introspection. On “Silence,” featuring Flvme, the track begins with a voice clip unpacking the stigma surrounding those who prefer their own company. The speaker highlights how society often ridicules or mistrusts loners—a sentiment deeply tied to anxiety, as many who struggle with mental illness retreat into isolation to avoid misunderstanding or judgment.
Zoocci’s lyrics capture this duality of solitude. “I only speak to microphones, I spend too much time alone,” he admits, reflecting both comfort in isolation and the loneliness that anxiety can breed. Later, he raps, “Not really the type to be out and about, do my thing, I get the guap and then I’m out,” a sentiment that further underscores his self-imposed distance from others. Through “Silence,” Zoocci paints solitude not as a simple choice but as a complex interplay between self-preservation and emotional struggle.
Self-Doubt and Imposter Syndrome
Tracks like “Narcissism” (featuring YoungstaCPT) and “Falling in My Sleep” delve into feelings of inadequacy and lack of control. The latter title is particularly evocative, as dreams of falling are often linked to feelings of being overwhelmed—hallmarks of anxiety.
On “Cherub,” Zoocci taps into imposter syndrome, singing, “Have you ever doubted yourself so much that your heart turns cold, you can’t sleep at night?” This haunting line encapsulates the persistent self-doubt that shadows even the most accomplished individuals, a sentiment deeply resonant for those battling anxiety.
The Weight of Paranoia
Paranoia—another hallmark of anxiety—finds its voice on tracks like “Paranoia” featuring Die Mondez. Zoocci’s raw lyricism cuts through, admitting, “I think a little too much, please save me,” while Mondez delivers a chilling refrain: “Paranoid up in my brain, I can’t trust no one these days.”
Lines like “Hope my people f*ck with me entirely” from the album’s intro further underscore the suspicion and doubt that plague relationships and self-perception when paranoia takes hold.
Braggadocio Meets Vulnerability
Despite its melancholic undercurrent, Anxiety is not without its moments of triumph. Tracks like “Oath” (featuring Nasty C) and “Not Deep” (featuring Eli Sostre) serve as a testament to Zoocci’s versatility. Here, he effortlessly blends braggadocio with candid admissions, showcasing the duality of anxiety—moments of confidence juxtaposed with spirals of self-doubt.
His boast, “I got fans, I’m an idol,” on “Oath” stands in stark contrast to his confessions of overthinking and insecurity, painting a vivid picture of the highs and lows inherent to living with anxiety.
A Sonic Triumph
Sonically, Anxiety is a masterclass in mood and atmosphere. Zoocci’s layered production—punctuated by haunting melodies, vocal clips, and melancholic tones—immerses listeners in his world. Each track flows seamlessly into the next, creating an auditory experience as cohesive as it is cathartic.
The album’s greatest triumph lies in its ability to foster a sense of community. By baring his struggles so vulnerably, Zoocci has created a safe space for those navigating similar battles, making Anxiety more than an album—it’s a lifeline.
Zoocci Coke Dope’s Anxiety remains a cultural milestone, bridging the gap between art and mental health advocacy. By meticulously detailing his internal struggles, Zoocci has not only destigmatized anxiety but also reminded listeners that they are not alone.
If you or someone you know needs mental health support, contact SADAG (South African Depression and Anxiety Group) at www.sadag.org.