In her latest music video, Doechii delves into the complexities of mental health by confronting a variety of internal fears and stressors. Directed by James Mackel, the video presents an elaborate narrative that begins with the rapper navigating through a luxurious mansion accompanied by attentive staff. However, as the story unfolds, chaos erupts in various forms, symbolizing the overwhelming nature of anxiety. From intruding SWAT teams to surreal elements like a giant elephant and falling chandeliers, the visual representation captures the disorienting experience of anxiety. Additionally, the journey of "Anxiety" from its initial self-release in 2019 to becoming a viral TikTok sensation and eventually peaking at Number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 showcases the song's resilience and growing popularity.
The video creatively incorporates nods to cultural references, such as lookalikes of Gotye and Kimbra, paying homage to the sample of their hit song. Meanwhile, the track's history reflects Doechii’s perseverance, overcoming challenges related to clearing the sample rights. Despite these hurdles, "Anxiety" found success through unexpected avenues like Sleepy Hallow's sampling and TikTok dances inspired by Fresh Prince of Bel-Air clips. This momentum culminated in the song becoming Doechii’s biggest hit, following her Grammy-winning album Alligator Bites Never Heal.
A Chaotic World Within: Symbolism in the Music Video
James Mackel's direction transforms Doechii's inner turmoil into a vivid spectacle, where each scene mirrors different aspects of anxiety. The initial tranquility of the grand home quickly gives way to disorder, representing how seemingly peaceful moments can suddenly shift into overwhelming chaos. Elements like fires, lifeless guests, aggressive animals, and surreal creatures emphasize the unpredictable and often irrational nature of anxious thoughts. By intertwining these visuals with Doechii’s journey through the house, the video effectively conveys the struggle to regain control amidst confusion.
As the camera follows Doechii maneuvering through this surreal environment, viewers witness her grappling with numerous challenges. The recurring motif of breaking windows introduces external forces disrupting her peace, symbolizing intrusive thoughts or fears. Simultaneously, the presence of bizarre creatures and objects highlights the distorted perceptions characteristic of heightened anxiety. The inclusion of Gotye and Kimbra lookalikes serves as a clever nod to the sampled track, reinforcing the connection between past influences and present emotions. Together, these elements create a rich tapestry illustrating the multifaceted experience of anxiety.
A Resilient Hit: The Evolution of "Anxiety"
The path of "Anxiety" from obscurity to mainstream success is marked by persistence and adaptability. Initially self-released in 2019, the song faced obstacles due to unlicensed samples, preventing proper distribution and monetization. Despite these setbacks, it quietly gained traction within niche audiences, setting the stage for future recognition. Its resurgence was sparked by unexpected collaborations and viral trends, including Sleepy Hallow's reinterpretation and TikTok users embracing its catchy beat paired with iconic TV clips.
This evolving trajectory underscores the power of digital platforms in reshaping musical careers. As "Anxiety" climbed charts after its official release, reaching Number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100, it solidified Doechii’s status as a prominent artist. Furthermore, the song complements her critically acclaimed album Alligator Bites Never Heal, which earned a Grammy for Best Rap Album. Beyond commercial achievements, "Anxiety" resonates deeply with listeners who relate to its exploration of mental health themes, proving that authentic storytelling transcends traditional barriers in music production. Through sheer determination and innovative promotion strategies, Doechii transformed a once inaccessible track into a career-defining moment.