The word $uicideboy$ evokes an odd and powerful response that begs inquiries and intrigue. The musical duo, consisting of cousins Ruby da Cherry (Aristos Petrou) and $lick $loth (Scott Arceneaux Jr.), purposefully selected this contentious moniker to mirror their personal hardships, lifestyles, and the spirit of their music. The title they have chosen says a lot about the culture they represent and the subjects they write about in their songs. However, what does the term “Suicideboys” mean in the context of their artistic expression, and why do they use it?
This article explores the history of the name, the musical journey of the pair, the origins of their contentious identity, and its cultural relevance. We will look at how this term came to represent their struggle with mental health concerns, the underground scene in which they flourish, and the reactions they have gotten from both supporters and detractors.
The Origins of $uicideboy$’ Name
To understand why Ruby and $lick decided to call themselves $uicideboy$, it’s important to look at their lives before they became one of the most influential groups in the underground rap scene. Both cousins grew up in New Orleans, a city known for its rich cultural and musical heritage. However, they did not lead easy lives. They struggled with poverty, broken families, and drug addiction, experiences that deeply influenced their music and identity.
In numerous interviews, the duo has been candid about their past, revealing that their name is not just a shocking title meant to garner attention but a reflection of their personal struggles. They have openly discussed their battles with depression, suicidal thoughts, and addiction. The name “$uicideboy$” is a representation of a pact the two made in their darkest moments: if they didn’t succeed in their music career, they would take their own lives.
This pact was born out of despair, but it also served as a driving force behind their relentless work ethic and eventual success. While it may sound grim, this dark humor, defiance, and confrontation of death are integral to their image and the themes they explore in their lyrics.
Confronting Mental Health and Addiction in Music
Mental health issues are central to the identity of $uicideboy$, and their name serves as a direct reflection of the demons they face. Depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation are frequent themes in their music, which resonates deeply with listeners who feel alienated by mainstream pop culture’s typically sanitized portrayal of life.
For Ruby and $lick, music became both an outlet and a means of survival. Rather than shying away from difficult conversations, they dive headfirst into the raw emotions that accompany addiction and despair. Their music can often sound bleak, with songs like “Kill Yourself (Part III)” and “Paris” encapsulating feelings of hopelessness and loss.
The duo has discussed how their music serves as a form of therapy, not only for themselves but also for their fans. Their songs reflect the pain they have lived through, but they also offer solace to listeners who may feel alone in their struggles. The unflinching honesty of their lyrics has built a dedicated fanbase that sees the $uicideboy$ as more than just rappers—they are relatable figures who give voice to the struggles many face silently.
Challenging the Norms of Hip-Hop and Society
The name $uicideboy$ also serves as a critique of societal norms and the commercialization of music. In a world where artists are often pressured to conform to mainstream trends to achieve success, $uicideboy$ has rejected these conventions. They remain staunchly independent, releasing music under their own label, G*59 Records, and embracing the underground culture that has shaped their identity.
By choosing a name as provocative as $uicideboy$, they are making a statement: they are not interested in fitting into the mold of traditional hip-hop. Their music isn’t designed to top the charts or appeal to a broad audience. Instead, it’s a raw and unfiltered reflection of their reality.
The name also challenges the stigma surrounding mental health issues, particularly in the hip-hop community. In a genre that has historically emphasized toughness and machismo, discussions of depression, vulnerability, and suicidal thoughts are often seen as taboo. However, Ruby and $lick have made it their mission to break down these barriers, using their music as a platform to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and destigmatize conversations around it.
The Aesthetic and Symbolism of Death
Another reason behind the duo’s name lies in their aesthetic. Death, darkness, and morbidity are recurring motifs in their music, artwork, and public personas. This aesthetic is partly a reflection of their personal experiences with loss, addiction, and despair, but it also speaks to the broader cultural influences that shape their art.
Drawing from the underground horrorcore subgenre and punk music, $uicideboy$ blends hip-hop with elements of punk, heavy metal, and horror. This fusion gives their music a distinct sound and style that is both aggressive and melancholic, further reflected in their name.
The obsession with death and the macabre in their music can also be seen as a coping mechanism. For Ruby and $lick, confronting death head-on through their art allows them to grapple with their fears and anxieties. By embracing these themes, they reclaim control over their struggles, turning their pain into art that resonates with those going through similar experiences.
Reception: Praise and Criticism
As with any group that takes on a provocative name and controversial subject matter, $uicideboy$ has faced both praise and criticism. Their fans, particularly younger listeners, appreciate their brutal honesty and willingness to talk about issues like depression, addiction, and mental health in ways that are often left unspoken in mainstream culture.
However, the duo has also been criticized for glorifying self-destructive behavior. Some detractors argue that their name and lyrics could potentially encourage impressionable fans to romanticize or trivialize suicide. Ruby and $lick have pushed back against this criticism, maintaining that their music is a reflection of their personal experiences and that they aim to create a dialogue around mental health, not promote harmful behavior.
They have also become figures of inspiration for those who have battled similar demons, with many fans sharing stories of how $uicideboy$’ music has helped them through their darkest moments. This highlights the power of their name and art to foster a sense of community among those who feel isolated or misunderstood.
The Evolution of $uicideboy$
Over the years, $uicideboy$ has evolved, both musically and personally. Their early music was heavily centered on themes of despair and hopelessness, but as they have grown and found success, their sound has matured. While their music still touches on dark themes, there are also moments of hope and resilience, as the duo reflects on overcoming addiction and finding purpose through their art.
Despite their growth, the name $uicideboy$ remains a key part of their identity. It serves as a reminder of where they came from, the struggles they’ve faced, and the journey they’ve been on. For Ruby and $lick, the name is more than just a title—it’s a testament to their survival and their commitment to using music as a means of healing.
In the end, the question of why they call themselves $uicideboy$ is deeply tied to the duo’s life experiences, their battles with mental health, and their desire to challenge societal norms. The name represents their pact, their defiance in the face of despair, and their mission to bring awareness to issues that are often swept under the rug.
While controversial, the name $uicideboy$ encapsulates the essence of who Ruby and $lick are as artists: raw, unfiltered, and unafraid to confront the darker aspects of life. Through their music, they offer a voice to those who feel unheard, turning their struggles into a source of empowerment for themselves and their fans alike.
The Best TV Series for Teenage Boys
Teenagers now spend a significant portion of their lives watching television because it provides a thrilling escape into realms of mystery, adventure, friendship, and maturation. TV shows that tackle relatable issues like identity, belonging, and problems throughout the transition to adulthood can be particularly entertaining for teenage boys. Here’s a list of some of the top TV shows that teenage boys would enjoy, ranging from thrilling action sequences to provocative dramas. There is something for every kind of viewer with the variety of genres these shows cover.
1. Stranger Things
Few TV series have captivated teenage audiences like Stranger Things. Set in the 1980s, the show blends science fiction, horror, and coming-of-age drama in a way that appeals to both teenage boys and adults alike. The story revolves around a group of friends in the small town of Hawkins who come across a mysterious girl named Eleven with supernatural abilities. As they investigate strange occurrences, they uncover the existence of an alternate dimension known as the Upside Down.
What makes Stranger Things so appealing for teenage boys is the show’s central focus on friendship and loyalty. The characters’ bond mirrors the kind of relationships teenage boys often experience in their own lives, as they face the challenges of adolescence together. Add in intense action scenes, supernatural threats, and nostalgic ’80s pop culture references, and Stranger Things becomes an exciting adventure for teens craving mystery and suspense.
2. The Mandalorian
For fans of the Star Wars universe, The Mandalorian offers an action-packed yet emotionally gripping story. This space Western focuses on a bounty hunter, known as Mando, who embarks on dangerous missions across the galaxy while protecting an alien child (Grogu, affectionately known as Baby Yoda). The show strikes a balance between intense action sequences and heartfelt moments of connection between Mando and Grogu.
Teenage boys who love science fiction, adventure, and epic world-building will find The Mandalorian incredibly satisfying. The show also explores themes of honor, responsibility, and finding one’s place in the universe—issues many teenage boys can relate to as they navigate their own sense of identity. Its stunning visual effects and thrilling action sequences keep the adrenaline pumping, while the story delves into deeper emotional territory that can resonate with young viewers.
3. Cobra Kai
Cobra Kai, a sequel to the beloved Karate Kid film series, is a masterful blend of nostalgia, humor, and high-octane action. The show picks up decades after the original movies, focusing on Johnny Lawrence, the former high school bully, who reopens the infamous Cobra Kai dojo. Meanwhile, Daniel LaRusso, the original protagonist, is now a successful businessman with a seemingly perfect life, but their rivalry reignites as they both try to mentor a new generation of karate students.
The appeal of Cobra Kai lies in its depiction of teenage boys grappling with school, relationships, and bullying, all while engaging in epic karate battles. The show is a great mix of martial arts action and character-driven storytelling, making it perfect for teenage boys who enjoy a good underdog story and the exploration of themes like redemption, loyalty, and personal growth.
4. The Flash
Superhero shows are a staple for teenage boys, and The Flash stands out as one of the best. The series follows Barry Allen, a forensic scientist who gains super-speed abilities after a freak accident. As The Flash, Barry must protect Central City from various supervillains while grappling with the challenges of being a hero and a normal person at the same time.
What makes The Flash particularly appealing is its balance of thrilling superhero action with heartfelt moments of character development. Teenage boys who enjoy comic book adaptations, fast-paced action, and moral dilemmas will find plenty to love in The Flash. The show also highlights the importance of friendship, family, and perseverance, making it a great watch for teenagers looking for role models in the superhero world.
5. Teen Wolf
Teen Wolf blends supernatural drama with high school life, making it a fan favorite among teenage boys. The series follows Scott McCall, an ordinary high school student who is bitten by a werewolf and must learn to navigate his new abilities while keeping them a secret. Along the way, he faces various supernatural threats, from other werewolves to powerful hunters, all while trying to maintain a semblance of normal teenage life.
The show excels in exploring themes such as loyalty, friendship, and personal responsibility, which are central to the lives of teenage boys. The action sequences are intense, and the supernatural elements add an exciting layer of danger and mystery. Teen Wolf is also known for its well-developed characters, each dealing with their own unique struggles, making it a relatable and engaging watch for young viewers.
6. My Hero Academia
For anime fans, My Hero Academia is a must-watch. Set in a world where nearly everyone has superpowers (or “quirks”), the show follows Izuku Midoriya, a boy born without any powers who dreams of becoming a hero. After a chance encounter with the world’s greatest hero, All Might, Izuku is granted the ability to pursue his dream and is enrolled in a prestigious high school for young heroes-in-training.
My Hero Academia stands out for its inspiring message that hard work, determination, and heart can make anyone a hero, regardless of their background or abilities. This theme resonates deeply with teenage boys, especially those who feel like underdogs in their own lives. The series also features incredible action scenes, emotional character arcs, and an exploration of what it truly means to be a hero.
7. Brooklyn Nine-Nine
For teenage boys who enjoy comedy, Brooklyn Nine-Nine is a fantastic choice. This police procedural comedy follows a group of detectives in the fictional 99th precinct of the NYPD, focusing on the antics of the brilliant but immature Detective Jake Peralta and his team. The show blends hilarious humor with clever storytelling and surprising emotional depth.
Brooklyn Nine-Nine is great for teenage boys because it offers a lighter, funnier viewing experience while still incorporating important themes such as teamwork, friendship, and personal growth. The characters are quirky and loveable, and the show often touches on issues such as masculinity, diversity, and relationships in a thoughtful and relatable way. Plus, with its quick wit and comedic timing, it’s sure to keep teenage boys laughing episode after episode.
8. Arrow
Another superhero show that deserves a spot on this list is Arrow, which follows the journey of Oliver Queen, a billionaire playboy turned vigilante. After spending five years stranded on a remote island, Oliver returns home to Starling City with a mission: to save his city from corruption and crime using his newfound skills as a master archer.
Arrow is an intense, action-packed series filled with gritty fight scenes and compelling character development. Teenage boys will appreciate the darker, more mature tone of the show compared to other superhero series. It explores themes of justice, redemption, and sacrifice, while also showcasing some of the best action sequences on television.
9. The Witcher
For older teens who love fantasy, The Witcher is an excellent choice. Based on the popular book series and video games, the show follows Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter navigating a dangerous and politically charged world filled with magic, monsters, and intrigue. With stunning visuals, complex characters, and epic battle scenes, The Witcher offers a thrilling experience for fans of high fantasy.
The show also delves into deeper themes such as destiny, morality, and the blurred lines between good and evil, which can appeal to teenage boys who enjoy more mature and thought-provoking content. While the show’s complex narrative may require some focus, it rewards viewers with a rich, immersive world filled with adventure and danger.
Conclusion
The world of television offers a wide range of shows perfect for teenage boys, from action-packed superhero series to supernatural dramas and inspiring coming-of-age stories. Whether they’re looking for high-stakes adventure, relatable characters, or just some good laughs, there’s something for everyone on this list. These TV series not only provide entertainment but also explore themes of friendship, identity, responsibility, and personal growth, making them ideal for teenagers navigating their own journeys through adolescence.