Local hip-hop artist Darren Piper, better known as Optikx, is making a powerful comeback with his latest single, “Champion,” set for release on May 7. Known for tackling deep themes like mental health, childhood trauma, and resilience, Optikx brings an inspiring message of perseverance to his newest track.
“If you’re pushing through and conquering battles in your life, it’s time to celebrate your wins,” Piper said.
“Champion” is a personal yet universal anthem about overcoming adversity. “Anyone can listen to it and feel like it’s their story too,” he shared. For Piper, it reflects his journey through mental health struggles, including anxiety, depression, and CPTSD. Now more than a decade sober and in recovery from addiction, injury, and physical disability, Piper has been open about his experiences, including surviving childhood sexual assault. He hopes his honesty reminds others that they are not alone.
Originally born in Australia, Piper grew up in Guelph’s south end and attended Centennial C.V.I. Despite many hardships, he continues to persevere — and his music tells that story.
In addition to “Champion,” Piper is working on another single, “Overnight Success,” which sheds light on the hard, often unseen work it takes to make it in the music industry. “I’m 42 now, and it didn’t turn out the way I thought it would. But it’s my journey, and I’m not going to quit,” he said.
Facing doubts along the way, Piper says he hopes to inspire others to chase their dreams, no matter the obstacles.
Already, “Champion” has become his most-viewed teaser, with listeners resonating deeply with its upbeat energy. The track will be the fifth release from his upcoming Optikx EP, with “Overnight Success” as the sixth. He plans to round out the seven-song collection with a deeply personal final track titled “What’s My Name,” reclaiming his long-held artist identity.
Thanks to funding from the Rise Peer Supported Startup Program, Piper has been able to continue production, working at Metalworks Studios, Canada’s top-rated recording facility for 17 years. His upcoming tracks include mixing by Grammy-nominated engineer Blake Eiseman, whose credits include icons like Jay-Z, Beyoncé, Pink, and Whitney Houston.
Looking ahead, Piper hopes to perform live before the end of the year. After a challenging physical recovery from a serious fall, he says his strength is returning, and with it, his drive to keep creating.
“Slow and steady wins the race, but I already feel like a champion,” Piper said. “I want my music to be timeless — something people can still connect with 10 or 20 years from now.”
You can listen to the “Champion” teaser now on YouTube and follow Optikx’s official platforms at linktr.ee.
