Introduction
“Rx (Medicate)” is a powerful song by the Canadian rock band Theory of a Deadman. The song explores the impact that prescription drugs can have on lives and, more specifically, the opioid epidemic that has plagued North America for decades. The song was released in 2017 and has since resonated with millions of people around the world. In this article, we will explore the deeper meaning behind the song and the inspiration behind it.
Prescription Drug Abuse
In recent years, prescription drug abuse has become an increasingly serious issue in North America. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, an estimated 18 million people in the United States misuse prescription drugs every year. On top of that, over 130 Americans die every day from opioid-related overdoses. The problem has become so serious that in 2017, the United States declared the opioid crisis a public health emergency. The song “Rx (Medicate)” tackles this very issue head-on.
The Inspiration for the Song
The lead vocalist of Theory of a Deadman, Tyler Connolly, had a close friend who struggled with prescription drug addiction for years. In an interview with Loudwire, Connolly explained that his friend was prescribed OxyContin for an injury sustained on the job. After some time, the friend became addicted to it and eventually lost his battle with addiction. The tragic loss of a close friend inspired Connolly to write the song “Rx (Medicate).”
The Lyrics
The lyrics to “Rx (Medicate)” paint a haunting picture of addiction and the devastating effects it can have on lives. The opening lines of the song capture the desperation of a person in the throes of addiction: “Wake up to a cloudy day/ Dark rolls in and it starts to rain/ Staring out to the cage-like walls/ Time goes by and the shadows crawl.” The chorus of the song is a powerful indictment of the pharmaceutical industry: “Well, I’m medicated/ How are you?/ Dr. Kevorkian’s little helper, ain’t that cute?/ Narcotics and euthanasia, we can all use/ Take a trip to Lala Land and I can meet you there/ Goddamn pharmaceuticals.”
The Music Video
The music video for “Rx (Medicate)” is just as powerful as the song itself. The video features several people from different walks of life who are struggling with addiction. The video captures the emotional pain and isolation that comes with addiction, as well as the physical toll it takes on the body. The final shot of the video reveals that all of the people featured in the video are actually in a hospital, highlighting the danger of addiction and the need for professional help.
The Response
“Rx (Medicate)” has struck a chord with a lot of people, as evidenced by the millions of views the music video has received. The song has also been praised by medical professionals and addiction experts for its frank depiction of the dangers of prescription drug abuse. Dr. John H. Halpern, a Harvard Medical School psychiatry professor, said in an interview with Billboard that the song “is a powerful and much-needed message about the opioid crisis. It gives a perspective that we can all relate to and understand.”
Conclusion
“Rx (Medicate)” by Theory of a Deadman is a powerful song that shines a light on the devastating effects of prescription drug abuse. The song and its music video have resonated with millions of people around the world, and have sparked important conversations about the opioid epidemic that continues to ravage North America. As we continue to grapple with this crisis, it’s important to remember the message behind “Rx (Medicate)” – that prescription drugs can be just as dangerous and addictive as illegal drugs, and that professional help is essential in overcoming addiction.
