Sufjan Stevens Tags "Renegade" Choreographer for Gentle "Video Game" Visual

With The Ascension set to drop next month, Sufjan Stevens shared a music video for his latest single “Video Game.”

Starring Jalaiah Harmon, best known as the choreographer of the hit TikTok “Renegade” trend, the accompanying visual is a dreamy and relaxing cut that sees Harmon at her most comfortable. “This was my first time being asked to create choreo for a whole song,” the dancer said in a statement. “So I was a little nervous in the beginning, but once I really broke the song into parts and listened to the lyrics over and over, I just put moves together that connected to the words and felt natural for me to do. I think I’m still really trying to get used to this kind of success, so I can’t really define it just yet. I just know that when you work hard and you treat others with kindness and fairness, good things come back to you.”

For Stevens, “Video Game” reminds everyone not to base their worth on someone else’s approval. “It’s unfortunate that we live in a society where the value of people is quantified by likes, followers, listeners and views. So many people are seeking attention for the wrong reasons. I think we should all be doing our best work without looking for accolades or seeking reward,” he explained. ”Just be yourself. Keep it real. Keep it moving. Do all things with absolute purity, love and joy. And always do your best.

He continued, “Jalaiah epitomizes all of this and I’m truly inspired by her. So I thought, “what if we could get Jalaiah to star in a ‘dance video’ about not wanting to star in a ‘dance video?’” I’m so honored she agreed. She clearly owns it, and her work here is beautiful, poignant and true.”

Watch Sufjan Stevens’ “Video Game” visual above.

Elsewhere in music, watch Drake and Lil Durk’s “Laugh Now Cry Later” visual here.