The Filipino greeting “kumusta” (or “kamusta”) is more than just a friendly phrase. It also opens the opportunity for people to connect and relay their present situations. It also serves as an invitation among friends to discuss difficult predicaments that few people can handle alone.
Rap star Shanti Dope’s new song revolves around the premise of asking how your friends are doing because you don’t know the challenges they’re facing in life entirely.
Aptly titled “Kamusta,” the new single was written and created in collaboration with another rising star in the Filipino hip-hop scene, Flow G. The pair share a good relationship and often ask how the other is doing, sparking the inspiration for the song.
Both Shanti Dope and Flow G wrote their verses for the song. As they demonstrated their parts to each other, they realized they had to add more because it conveys a relevant message that people shouldn’t have to carry their burdens alone and for others to be considerate about their mental health.
Some people struggle with accepting mental health problems and the stigma surrounding them, which came from years of prejudice and disinformation. As a result, they keep their feelings in the dark and try to find solutions themselves, even if they’re already struggling.
For Shanti, people must care for their mental health since it maintains their overall well-being.
“Learn how to balance things. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health, and you need to take care of it. Also, don’t be afraid to share your problems with the people who matter because they’ll help you get through them,” he said in the vernacular during the exclusive premiere of “Kamusta” and its music video.
“Kamusta” begins with Flow G asking the greeting and hoping the listener is doing well. However, he hopes that they’re also not pretending to be strong and share their problems because there’s someone ready to listen.
“Those verses are me scolding myself for trying to be tough when I should be finding the light to help solve my problems,” Flow G said.
He added that the phrase that hit him the most was, “Habang yung katinuan naka-kadena sa alak, usok, at tableta,” because it reflects how people turn to vices whenever a problem arises instead of finding support from peers or through faith.
Shanti, who admits to having low points in his life, turns to music to combat negativity and remain inspired to do what he loves. In the meantime, Flow G seeks the company of family and loved ones for solace.
In the music video, directed by Jeremy Lim, both Shanti Dope and Flow G donned all-white ensembles while standing atop a building. Lim shared that the concept behind the visuals is that both rappers portrayed guardian angels looking down from above to remind people that there’s always someone ready to listen to them.
As the music video progresses, it also tackles the significance of consent, respect for a person’s privacy, and the impact of social media on one’s mental health.
“Kamusta” is the first collaboration between Shanti Dope and Flow G. Yet, they’re already encouraging their fans to stay tuned for more future partnerships.
The song and its music video are now available to watch on YouTube. It’s also accessible on Spotify.
