Crook the Kid, hailing from Fort Good Hope, and his collaborator Manshad are joining forces to tackle the issue of men’s mental health with their latest musical endeavor. Their new single, “Dreaming,” marks the beginning of a 10-track studio album project, supported by the Canada Council of the Arts, set to be released gradually over the summer.
The collaboration between Crook the Kid, also known as Dylan Jones, and Manshad stemmed from a shared concern for men’s mental well-being. Jones highlights the tendency for men to downplay their achievements and emotions, often leading to feelings of insecurity or disconnection.
Manshad, a first-generation immigrant to Canada, notes the societal pressure for men to suppress their feelings, which can contribute to the crisis of suicide, particularly in northern communities.
Men’s Mental Health Should Not Be Ignored
“Dreaming,” produced by Andrew Shedden of Fort Smith, features lyrics in both English and Punjabi. Manshad’s contribution to the song draws from Punjab’s border state mentality, emphasizing the importance of heritage and resilience in overcoming challenges.
Jones emphasizes the need for emotional vulnerability in their music to foster open dialogue about mental health. By sharing their own experiences and emotions through their music, they hope to encourage others to do the same and initiate meaningful conversations about mental well-being.
The duo aims for their music to serve as a catalyst for reflection and connection, urging listeners to reach out to friends and loved ones who may be struggling. Through their music, Crook the Kid and Manshad hope to break down barriers surrounding men’s mental health and promote a culture of openness and support.
Leave a Reply