While the music is a verbal expression of sound and heart, sometimes the video gives an interpretation of the artiste’s soul. As Marenikae releases the visuals for her relatable single – Deliverance (Na So)- the artiste offers a coalition of personality and performance – and her newly released video is its vehicle of conveyance.
Minimalist, colourful and energetic in the static state common to the classics, Marenikae is gunning for making less mean more.
“I’ve done a lot of big videos in the past with lots of dancers and costumes and choreography, so I wanted something stripped down and simple but still very glam and artsy,” she says about her idea of what the song’s visuals should entail. This is not without reason. Deliverance (Na So) is a relatable narrative. A prayer, in essence, the song borrows from the religious tradition of supplication for supernatural change.
“It’s a commentary on the lack of emotional support systems that we Nigerians have access to. You may need deliverance from your partner, your ex, your parents and they may need deliverance from others as well.”
The video opens with Marenikae singing against a backdrop of colours. She’s passionate, yet introspective, and she rides the song’s rhythm as she slowly morphs into a solo performer. While the background rarely shifts, Marenikae is kinetic as she sings and dance without restraint. The result is nostalgic visual that invokes memories of the classics. This is clearly not misplaced however as Marenikae swears by the classics.
“I love the classics!”, she enthuses. “90’s RnB, neo-soul and pop but I especially love early to mid-2000’s Nigerian RnB and pop music. I owe a lot to Styl Plus, Tiwa Savage, Wande coal and early Mo’hits. They played a big part in shaping my sound and my ear”
Inspired by her story and those of others, she uses the video to convey the joy of moving on and living freely. She is of the opinion that everyone is happier once they get deliverance from the issues that weigh them down.
“We all have experienced fuel scarcity, electricity fluctuations, insecurity etcetera in society but deliverance frames this with the added pressure of a partner who continues to make a difficult life even more difficult by being difficult lol Clearly someone who needs deliverance”. she quips.
Social commentary couched into a tale of tough love and introspection, Marenikae’s Deliverance (Na So) video is not all we have to look forward to from this artiste.
“My EP called ACQUIRED TASTE is coming out later this year” she adds. “We’re gonna be dropping 2 new singles soon.”As I be” and “Moolah” featuring Wande Coal. I will also be dropping a cover of MOVE by Beyoncé and Tems, in a couple of weeks! I would love to know your thoughts!”
