Papa Roach & Carrie Underwood Promote SA Mental Health

As part of their ongoing commitment to raising mental health awareness, American rock band Papa Roach is encouraging their South African fans to seek support from the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG).

This initiative follows the success of their heartfelt new single, “Leave A Light On (Talk Away The Dark),” a poignant collaboration with eight-time Grammy Award winner Carrie Underwood.

The duet underscores Papa Roach’s mission to promote suicide prevention and mental health awareness. Royalties from the track will indefinitely benefit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), furthering efforts to highlight the global importance of mental health resources.

Papa Roach Frontman Jacoby Shaddix shared his appreciation for Underwood’s involvement

“We were honored that Carrie embraced our mission. Her powerful voice elevates the message, and we believe it will resonate with listeners worldwide. Fans around the globe have responded, and we’re committed to fostering conversations about this critical topic. We hope to bring our show to South Africa for the first time.”

Carrie Underwood shared the same sentiment

“The message of this song and the need to address mental health has never been more urgent.”

The single has already achieved remarkable success in the US, marking Papa Roach’s 12th #1 hit and reaching the Top 10 across multiple charts. During their recent tour, the band raised over $250,000 for the AFSP, inspiring fans to engage in discussions about mental health.

Bob Gebbia, CEO of the AFSP, praised the collaboration

“Papa Roach’s dedication to mental health awareness is inspiring. This partnership with Carrie Underwood will reach even more fans, encouraging them to seek help when needed.”

Recognizing the support the single has already received from South African fans, Papa Roach is encouraging them to connect with SADAG.

Trained professionals at SADAG are ready to provide assistance and resources. South African fans can reach the SADAG Suicide Crisis Helpline at 0800 567 567.

Check out the music video for “Leave A Light On (Talk Away The Dark)” below:

More info about Papa Roach

Papa Roach, the two-time Grammy-nominated, Platinum-selling rock icons, have been passionate advocates for mental health since their breakout anthem “Last Resort.”

With over 450 million global streams and numerous #1 singles, they remain a driving force in the rock music scene. Their highly anticipated Rise of the Roach Arena Tour, set for 2025, aims to bring their powerful message to even more audiences worldwide.

More info about Carrie Underwood

Carrie Underwood is a multi-talented superstar with more than 85 million records sold worldwide. A seven-time Grammy winner and a beloved figure in the music industry, she has consistently used her platform to advocate for important causes, including mental health.

The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) is at the forefront of patient advocacy, education and stigmatisation of mental illness in the country. Its expertise lies in assisting patients and callers throughout South Africa with mental health queries.

More info about SADAG

SADAG is a Non-Profit Organisation, a Registered Section 21 Company, with an 18a tax exemption. It has on its board a powerful team of Patients, Psychiatrists, Psychologists, and General Practitioners. SADAG was established twenty years ago to serve as a support network for the thousands of South Africans who live with mental health problems.

Currently, it is estimated that 1 in 5 people will, or do, suffer from a mental illness. SADAG manages a 16-line counselling-and-referral call centre, and is the voice of patient advocacy, working in urban, peri-urban, and the most rural communities across South Africa.

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