Jorja Smith Spotlights Black Lives Matter Protests in New Video for "Rose Rouge"
“This video is a tribute to all the people who have paved the way for black empowerment and freedom.”
After dropping a new cover of St Germain’s “Rose Rouge” as part of Blue Note Records’ upcoming Bluenote Re:imgained album, Jorja Smith has released visuals for the jazz-infused track. Directed by Samona Olanipekun and produced by Aws Al-Jezairy, the video is a compilation of photographs and footage from Black Lives Matter protests. The images show fists raised in solidarity, people taking to the streets to march, a couple joining a protest ahead of their wedding ceremony and other images representing the joy, power and resilience of those who have been actively fighting for justice and equality.
“We have to continue the conversation around injustices that are and have been inflicted upon black people all over the world,” Smith explains. “This video is a tribute to all the people who have paved the way for black empowerment and freedom. We are not going to stay quiet — black lives matter — they always have. Samona, who directed the video, captured the togetherness and power of the movement and I hope when you watch, you feel with us.” “The film was an opportunity to highlight the immense effort being made including the strength and the spirit display,” adds Olanipekun.
All proceeds from sales of this 7-inch single will be donated to Kwanda, a platform designed to help and encourage individuals giving back to, and building within, Black communities. Check out the video for “Roses Rouge” above and head to Blue Note’s store to purchase the record for $15.99 USD.
In related news, DUCKWRTH released a new lyric video for “Find A Way,” which threads together footage and photos of recent Black Lives Matter protests.
