Escapism, the debut track from British singer-songwriter RAYE’s much-anticipated studio album, My 21st Century Blues, which is scheduled for release in early 2023, gets its visual treatment unveiled.
The colourful visuals, which was co-directed by RAYE and Otis Dominique of KODE, convey the harshness of the post-breakup depression and the insatiable urge to “escape” the reality of being discarded.
The music video narrates events that unfolded after being devastated by her boyfriend’s “dumb decision” to break things up. RAYE uses drugs, alcohol, and partying to numb her sorrows and escape her emotions.
Sharing about the visuals for the track, RAYE shared: “We worked really hard to create an honest depiction of where I was at that time in my life.
“It was fun and wild. We shot it over a couple of days and wore point-of-view cameras during a wild night out at many different clubs. I pushed myself outside of my comfort zone and I ran 150 metres in 5 inch heels. We really took it there! I am really proud of it and hope everyone enjoys the visuals.”
KODE director, Otis Dominique, also said: “So gassed to see this film come out after all the hard work put in from the whole team involved! RAYE’s and Mikey’s approach to this project really allowed us all to push the limits creatively and make something that hasn’t quite been done like this before.
“The song has so many ups and downs / changes of mood and vibe so the challenge lay in how to connect these feelings and emotions together through filmmaking and storytelling without being too on the nose. My favourite element of the film is the contrast between our real night out footage and the considered setups we shot inside the exact same locations, truly showing the differences between reality and state of mind. That stuff goes hard and is so trippy! Shot on six different cameras and over a good few days and nights, I’ve loved working with everyone involved on this from start to finish and am very grateful for how it’s all turned out.”
Creative director, Mikey Robbins, also added: “It’s an honour to sit beside artists and filmmakers who push boundaries. This film does that and more. As it unfolds, Raye becomes completely engrossed by her vices. Ultimately, she runs frantically away from reality. That’s a heavy conversation; Raye is brave for opening it up.
“Our goal for this film was to leave viewers confused and concerned by the end. I hope, if anything, we accomplished that. Otis is one of the best and hardest working directors out there. Joe Douglas has a wicked eye and a poise on set that is incomparable. Phoebe May’s attention to detail is inspiring, each frame of this film was cut with precision! I am grateful for the ENTIRE production team. Love!”
Watch the thrilling visuals for “Escapism” below.
Education: Computer Network Engineering, Computer Desktop Administration
Fave Song: Destiny's Child 'Dangerously in love'
Fave Colour: Grey.
With £1m what would you do: I would do my part to provide opportunities to the less fortunate. Then do my best to change the world in my own way through sports and talent building.
