Welcome to TWIB’s Weekly Top 10 Videos. This segment looks at exceptional visuals from various acts around the globe. The music video format has been around for decades, from the 90s and 2000s, and has shifted from multi-million-dollar-budget music videos to mid- to low-budget videos with exceptional production values. In this section, we will not discriminate but highlight some creative visuals that pop up on our radar.

Again, we promise to bring you the best from high to low budget, to animated to DIY and first and foremost, the most creative visuals we can source.

Read on the previous editions HERE.

Mata x Polo G – “PANGEA”

Polish hip-hop star Mata connects with Chi-town’s Polo G for “PANGEA,” a hard-hitting jam that connects Europe and North America. Over a cinematic trap backdrop featuring cinematic synths, heavy bass-driven downtempo drums and moody textures, the duo share their thoughts on success and the never-ending struggles that help shape and prepare them for the future. The accompanying visual employs performance shots of Mata and Polo G in different spots in the city.

“PANGEA” is the lead single for Mata’s upcoming project #MATA2040.

Josh Porter – “End of My Rope”

Texas-based multi-genre act Josh Porter pours his all on wax in the new release “End of My Rope.” The track is a heartfelt country/hip-hop-infused track that finds Porter pouring his frustrations on wax. From being overlooked, manipulated and discarded, he reflects on the times when he was down but not out. For the visuals, we get performance shots of Porter in a dimly lit environment where he can gather his thoughts, far from the craziness of the world.

Udin – “Let My People Go”

UK-based Nigerian rapper Udin drops the official video for “Let My People Go,”  an insightful piece that explores the complex history of Africa. Over a soulful backdorp provided by veteran Nigerian music producer ExO Magege, Udin takes the audience on a thought-provoking and enlightening journey with vivid storytelling.  The music video was edited and directed by George Benz ‪, who blends performance shots of Udin with legendary images that cut across the social and political history of the motherland.

“Let My People Go” is taken from Udin’s latest project, Project Sankofa.

Dax – “God, Can You Hear Me?”.

To call Dax prolific is an understatement, as he continues to push his multi-genre faith-themed tracks to the forefront. His latest release, “God, Can You Hear Me?” is a thoughtful track that talks about addiction, mental health and being lost without any lifeline. The production by Backnine Z is a mix of modern contemporary pop sounds with rap elements, and Dax effortlessly blends vivid rapping with smooth melodic runs. The accompanying visual directed by Patrick Tohill is in the same vein as his previous releases, which have been cinematic and immersive. The extensive use of storyboarding with running motifs and performance shots helps bring the song to life.

Click here to listen here.

Guvna B – “Rest My Head”

UK rapper/songwriter Guvna B brings this week’s video playlist to a close with “Rest My Head,” a touching piece about self-love, growth and the tough path of working through his struggles on his own. The soundscape is triumphant in a way, as the slow build-up and layered melodic chorus add an angelic feel to the heartfelt song. The visual style is straightforward and finds the MOBO award winner seated in his hotel room, reflecting on his life and all the things he has been through.

The song is the lead single of his forthcoming album This Bed I Made, set for release on April 24. The 11-track project features collaborations with Frankie Stew & Harvey Gunn, Bawo, AratheJay and Claudia Isaki. Producers on the album include Joel Baker and Maths Time Joy.