Ruste Juxx & Preed One ft. DJ TMB – Depression

Ruste Juxx’s latest single “Depression” tackles a subject that hip hop has not always addressed openly. Produced by California beatmaker Preed One and featuring cuts from London turntablist DJ TMB, the record focuses on the realities of mental health struggles and the importance of seeking support. Rather than glorifying pain or using it as a backdrop, Ruste approaches the topic directly, laying out common symptoms, emotional challenges, and practical ways people can begin working through difficult periods. It is a thoughtful record with a clear purpose.

The production helps carry the message. Sitting comfortably in that head-nodding boom bap pocket, the beat gives the lyrics room to breathe while maintaining enough energy to keep listeners engaged. DJ TMB adds scratches throughout the track, weaving together familiar lines from classics like Geto Boys’ “Mind Playing Tricks on Me” alongside vocal cuts from Guru and KRS-One. Those references reinforce the song’s themes while connecting the record to hip hop’s long tradition of speaking on real-life issues.

What stands out most is how educational the song becomes without sounding like a lecture. In the first verse, Ruste outlines signs of depression, touching on hopelessness, insomnia, changes in appetite, mood swings, isolation, and difficulty concentrating. The second verse shifts toward solutions, encouraging people to speak with family and friends, seek professional help, practice mindfulness, exercise regularly, and pay attention to overall health. The chorus drives home the central message: “Never give up on yourself. I support great mental health.” It is simple, direct, and easy to remember.

“Depression” also carries added significance as part of the upcoming album Imperishable Artistry. The project was inspired by the memory of EQ, the late friend who originally connected Preed One, Ruste Juxx, and DJ TMB. That history gives the collaboration extra weight and helps explain the album’s focus on authenticity and human connection. With strong production, meaningful subject matter, and scratches that honor hip hop’s foundations, “Depression” offers an early indication that Imperishable Artistry is shaping up to be one of the more thoughtful underground releases arriving later this year.