On a brand new episode of On Purpose with Jay Shetty, Fat Joe joins Jay to talk about he gritty realities of his early life, the devastating losses he’s endured, emerging from deep depression with the help of therapy, and more.
First began his music career in the early 1990s, the rapper and music industry executive quickly gained recognition with his debut album Represent in 1993, which featured the hit single "Flow Joe." His journey from the streets of the Bronx to international stardom is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and enduring impact on the world of Hip-Hop.
During his chat with Shetty, Joe provided an honest look at the gritty realities of his early life, including hustling for money and living through dangerous encounters. Sharing how the aggressive nature of Hip-Hop initially required him to hide his true, more personable self behind a tough exterior. That being said, Joe goes on to credit the genre for saving his life and offering a legitimate path out of the streets.
The conversation takes a turn when Fat Joe opens up about the devastating losses he’s endured, including the deaths of his sister, Big Pun, and his grandfather, all within a short span. Consecutive tragedies that plunged him into a deep depression, from which he eventually emerged with the help of therapy.
“All that together, it was like perfect storm… I never dealt with so much death like that, and so I was really in a dark place. I’m not talking about a regular dark place, you know sleeping in the bathtub with no water running. If I looked outside and it was sunny, it looked dark.”
Going on to make the point that if you were in some type of trouble, there’s always the possible solution to move and start over. But, “the problem with depression is, it comes with you wherever you go.”
Recalling, the time I’m in depression, I’m going to Miami, I’m going to Islands. I’m going to try and erase it, but I can’t it’s with me, everywhere I go.” With constant reminders from the outside world, even trying to grieve became “so hard.”
Wanting to overcome these struggles, Joe went to therapy. “I went to therapy for like two years, I didn’t tell nobody. And this lady really really helped me out.” Noting therapist are all different, the rapper revealed her strategy was to allow Joe to “figure it out” for himself through conversation.
Joe went on to chat with Jay about bullying, and developing resilience, losing family over addiction, financial literacy, and more. To listen to the entire conversation, check out the episode above.
Related
Audacy's I’m Listening initiative aims to encourage those who are dealing with mental health issues to understand they are not alone. If you or anyone you know is struggling with depression or anxiety, know that someone is always there. Additionally, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 988. Find a full list of additional resources here.