Burna Boy’s position in Nigeria’s musical hierarchy may forever be a topic of contention. Sure he always comes through on releases and even brings his A-game on features but somehow, he doesn’t have quite the same standing as artist like Wizkid, Davido, Tekno and Runtown. They are seen as big stars because they have sold themselves as such but Burna Boy seems to be selling himself short. Especially when you go by this video for DJ Jimmy Jatt’s new single, “Chase” released earlier this month.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BWvRNOBhHDU/?taken-by=djjimmyjatt&hl=en

Produced by Benie Macaulay, “Chase” is a mid-tempo Afropop song with horns and piano led instrumentals and a few guitar harmonies sprinkled for an afro feel. While Burna Boy delivers a delightful performance detailing his almost ironic experience as a desirable person, the video directed by Matt Max is a far cry from what we expect from an artist of Burna Boy’s stature. The video for “Chase” is set in a strip dimly lit club featuring dancing poles and a few models to cheer Burna Boy as he performs the song bathed in fluorescent lights and smoke machine fumes. Basically, the least creative school boy’s imagination of what a night out at the club is like.

Music videos play an important role in crafting an artist’s image. The first video for Wizkid’s “Come Closer” was basically utilitarian studio shots of him and three models performing but just before the SFTOS album was released, he put out a much better video that portrays him as an African prince to cement his position as Africa’s biggest musical export. Burna Boy is inconsistent with his videos and this could be one reason why he isn’t rated as high as he should.

Asides being a great way to spend 4 minutes of your day, videos have grown to become a significant part of our music culture. Watch DJ Jimmy Jatt and Burna Boy’s video for “Chase” below.

Featured Image Credits: YouTube/DJ Jimmy Jatt

You are meeting Debola at a strange time in his life. He wandered into a dream and lost his way back. Tweet at him @debola_abimbolu

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