The bold symbolism of shooting music videos in a casket has been embraced by several Kenyan musicians to evoke themes of life, death, and resilience.
Here’s a look at some artists who have used this striking imagery:
Nikita Kering
Fast rising recording and performing artist Nikita Kering has shared the creative process that led her to decide to film herself inside a coffin for the music video of her 2022 hit song, ‘On Yah,’
The 22-year-old singer-songwriter revealed she’d gotten quizzed countless times about the coffin as people harboured their own interpretations, and she seemed quite exasperated with it all.
On why she decided to film herself inside the coffin she candidly noted, “it is a journey of you know… me explaining the killing of the old… no let me not say killing. It is more of letting go of the past and embracing this bold future.
Khaligraph Jones
Known for pushing creative boundaries, Khaligraph featured himself in a casket in his video for “G Like That,” depicting rebirth and the struggles faced in the music industry.
Octopizzo
In the video for his song “Oliel,” Octopizzo uses a casket scene to represent challenges he’s overcome on his journey, symbolizing the “death” of hardships.
Bahati
Gospel singer Bahati used a casket scene in “Barua” to portray a deep introspective moment, adding intensity to the song’s theme of prayer and self-reflection.
Smart lady
Popular Kalenjin musician who goes by stage name Smart lady has become the talk of town after featuring an expensive coffin in her new song that left everyone’s neck turned and tongues wagging.
With an aim to educate other couples, she puts herself in a coffin, act death; to portray how crazy love can lead to death in relationships and marriages.
These artists leverage casket scenes to illustrate impactful messages, resonating with audiences and establishing themselves as influential storytellers in Kenya’s music landscape.
