Wellbeing Wednesday: Music for mental health

To celebrate Black History Month this October and ahead of World Mental Health Day (10 October), Digital Leadership Graduate Kathryn Sansbury shares music by black artists helping her through the Covid crisis.

Music has and will always be a huge part of many people’s lives, and is certainly helping many of us cope during lockdown.

In times of crisis, we all need some optimism and positivity. To mark Black History Month UK, I’ve shared below are some amazing songs by black musicians that hopefully you too can start loving and add to your playlists.

Black History Month is a time for celebration and to recognise the outstanding contributions of black individuals who have shaped history, and continue to influence others in all walks of life. This is a time for celebration - and what a great way to honour artistic effort than to turn the music up and dance round the house!

Here are eight artists I'm listening to right now.

All his songs are funky, but if I had to pick a favourite song, it would be Jet Black. Paak brings a lot of energy on-stage, and once we are allowed to start attending gigs again, I recommend seeing him live.

They recently presented their album Untitled, released on Juneteenth (19 June, a US holiday marking the emancipation of slaves) with a message from the band that it intends “to mark a moment where we as Black People, and of Black Origin are fighting for our lives.” Listen to the mellow sound of Wildfires, and then the upbeat groove in their single Let Me Go for a boogie round the house.

An American psychedelic soul band based in Texas. Colors is a song that you will be instantly hooked to and want to keep listening on repeat.

'Queen B' has often been seen as an example of black feminism, suggesting to women of colour that it's best to set one's own course and buck societal conformity. Beyonce’s Lemonade album is a celebration of black culture and it's absolutely brilliant.

Closer is one of my all-time favourite songs. Corrine has a very distinctive voice and many recognise her from her song Put Your Records On that was popular in the 2000s.

Cranes in the Sky is truly such a beautiful song. She really can hit those high notes.

Critics have described Miguel’s Adorn as the greatest love song of the 2010s. Although this song came out nearly a decade ago, it still never gets old. Check out Miguel’s NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert on Youtube - his voice is truly magical.

A British funk group who created the catchy Brothers on the Slide.

Who are you listening to at the moment? I implore you to turn the music up!

Unipart's Employee Assistance Provider called LifeWorks, has a wide range of resources that can help to support you, and up to five members of your family.

If you are struggling, you can get free, confidential support from independent caring counsellors 24/7, via the phone number on 0800 169 1920 or through unipart.lifeworks.com or the LifeWorks mobile app. 

If you don't already have a login, find out more about how to sign up here.