The London born R&B/Soul artist and the prodigy of DJ mustard, Ella Mai, strips herself bare as she sings about the importance of loving oneself and appreciating the raw features of one’s loved ones in her debut single ‘Naked’.
Within this socially charged single, the message is for people to not get so caught up with what exemplifies ideal beauty standards. She encourages her audience to shed their pretenses and connect with people on a larger scale, as she states, “Are you ready to fight just to see what’s lost behind my flaws? Can you love me naked?” Plus, this song does not only speak to the values of natural-rawness in physical appearances but, the importance of human connection and the importance of learning to empathize with those around us. This is especially important in 2018 after the many tragedies we have encountered.
Courtesy: YouTube
It seems as though the British songstress brought this message to life in her vision for her latest single. And, oh boy, can I say that this visual complements the single fairly well due to the fact that she sheds lights on social movements that are prevalent today such as #MeToo, #BlackLivesMatter, #DefendDACA, #PrayForPuertoRico, #TimesUp and #JusticeForGrenfall.
Also, the music video showcases a montage of different people with a wide range of ethnic backgrounds and body shapes. The people showcased are in their barest state on camera to enhance the message of the song. The visual plays on the idea that there are many factors, especially in popular media, that makes us feel as if we have to change the way we are in order to fit within societal ideals.
Ella Mai shares a story in her music that many people can relate to. Whether it is the slow demise of a relationship or the celebration of oneself, she makes music for everyone to enjoy and to relate to. Music lovers appreciate music that can really speak to them and reassure them that they are not alone in their journeys. In order to achieve ultimate happiness, it begins from within. Hence, the emerging R&B singer-songwriter jam-packs a ton of messages regarding body positivity, social change and romantic openness.
The single ‘Naked’ is nothing short of powerful and amazing! It sheds multiple lights on conversations we tend to ignore sometimes in our lives. It opens a platform for others to overcome the fear of sharing their vulnerabilities’ or just standing up for what they believe, no matter the cause.
Nowadays, some music is created to merely entertain their fans and takes for granted the effect music can have on the lives of those who are tuning in. Ella Mai’s latest single and the music video are unapologetically real and especially relatable to young college women.
As young college women, we are pressured into fitting within certain standards that are, in reality, unachievable. It is important to love thyself as you are and be the best you can be. And, those that cannot appreciate you in your rawest form should not be allowed to have a piece of your precious time.
I say all of that to say this: