Olu Earthgang: Redefining Mental Health and Wellness in Hip-Hop
- Highlyfe
- May 11
- 2 min read
In an industry often characterized by relentless schedules and high-pressure environments, Olu—also known as Johnny Venus and one-half of the Grammy-nominated hip-hop duo EARTHGANG—is pioneering a transformative approach to mental health and wellness within the music world.
🌿 A Journey of Self-Discovery Through Yoga
During the challenges of 2023, Olu recognized a need for personal healing and embarked on a transformative journey to Bali, Indonesia. There, he completed a rigorous 200-hour yoga teacher training program, immersing himself in practices that emphasized the integration of Eastern philosophies with Western lifestyles.
Reflecting on his experience, Olu shared, "I had just reached a point in my life, in my career where I felt like I had accomplished a lot, but spiritually I hadn't grown as much as I had in the past."
🧭 Introducing COMPXSS: A Holistic Wellness Brand
Inspired by his experiences in Bali, Olu founded COMPXSS, a wellness brand dedicated to promoting mindfulness, movement, and health education. The initiative has resonated beyond his fan base, attracting attention from professional sports teams like the Toronto Raptors and Memphis Grizzlies, who have sought his guidance on wellness practices.
"Through this platform, Olu wants to create a community environment that provides access to the practices that helped him recenter and refocus," noted Muscle & Fitness.
🧠 Advocating for Mental Health in the Music Industry
Olu's commitment to mental health extends to his active participation in industry discussions. At MusiCares' inaugural Mindful May event, he emphasized the importance of community and creativity in maintaining mental well-being.
"He articulated that his most authentic and impactful creations stem from a state of mental clarity and peace," highlighting the therapeutic nature of creative expression.
🌍 The EARTHGANG Foundation: Bridging Environmental and Mental Wellness
Recognizing the interconnectedness of environmental and mental health, Olu, alongside his EARTHGANG partner Doctur Dot, established the EARTHGANG Foundation in 2022. The foundation focuses on addressing environmental injustices through initiatives like community gardens and educational programs, starting in their hometown of Atlanta.
"We want to go to communities where we know our fans and supporters are and assist them with things they want to do," Olu explained.
🎤 Redefining Masculinity and Emotional Expression
In conversations about modern masculinity, Olu advocates for "selective vulnerability," encouraging men to share their emotions within supportive environments.
"I'm learning to be selective with my vulnerability with the men in my life—men who I think have the heart posture and aren't bitter about situations that they've been through in the past," he shared.
🌟 A Blueprint for Holistic Success
Olu's multifaceted approach—integrating personal wellness, community engagement, and artistic expression—serves as a model for holistic success in the hip-hop industry. His initiatives demonstrate that prioritizing mental health and wellness can coexist with professional achievement, offering a new paradigm for artists and fans alike.
For more insights into Olu's journey and initiatives, explore the following resources:
People Magazine: Olu's Mental Health Advocacy
Muscle & Fitness: Olu's Wellness Journey
MusiCares Mindful May Event Recap
https://www.grammy.com/news/2024-mindful-may-event-recap-panel-discussion-dr-siri-olu-earthgang-test
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