Soca queen Patrice Roberts has traded in her feathers for vulnerability in her powerful new single, "Anxiety." This genre-bending track, a departure from Roberts' usual power soca anthems, tackles the often-silenced topic of mental health with raw honesty and Caribbean flair.
Produced by a powerhouse team of XplicitMevon, Millbeatz Entertainment, and Advokit Productions, "Anxiety" is a tapestry of emotion woven with Caribbean rhythms and introspective lyrics. The track opens with a haunting melody, accentuated by Kyle Peters' live guitar and bass, setting the stage for Roberts' poignant vocals.
Co-written by Roberts, Kitwana Israel, Mevon Soodeen, and David Millien, the lyrics delve into the crippling grip of anxiety, a battle many face in silence. Lines like "Falling, falling, as I lay in my bed with my head to the ceiling / Drowning alone, lost in my feelings" vividly depict the internal storm many experiences.
But "Anxiety" isn't just about the darkness. The chorus explodes with a soca-infused anthem, "Carnival come back to me, cause you know you're my healing," offering a glimmer of hope and resilience. Roberts' background vocals, harmonizing with Israel's, add a layer of unity and strength, reminding listeners that they are not alone.
The accompanying music video, directed by Dane Padmore, is a stunning visual representation of the song's message. Shania Perez's production brings Roberts' vulnerability to life, while Padmore's editing seamlessly blends introspective moments with vibrant bursts of colour, mirroring the song's emotional journey.
"Anxiety" marks a bold step for Roberts, showcasing her versatility as an artist and willingness to tackle important topics. It's a song that resonates deeply, transcending the soca genre to touch anyone who has ever grappled with mental health. This is more than just a song; it's a conversation starter, a call for empathy, and, ultimately, a celebration of hope and resilience.
So, crank up the volume, let the soca rhythms wash over you, and allow Patrice Roberts' "Anxiety" to guide you through the darkness. It's a journey you won't soon forget.