Welcome to TWIB’s Weekly Top 5 Videos. This is a segment where we will be looking at some exceptional visuals from various acts from around the globe. The music video format has been around for decades and through the 90s and 2000s, it has really taken flight from multi-million budget music videos, to mid to low-budget videos with exceptional features. In this section, we will not discriminate but rather highlight some of the creative visuals that pop up on our radar.

SirReal – “Proud Of You”

Emerging rapper/songwriter SirReal opens up this week’s video list with his new song “Proud Of You”. The track is made up of a cinematic soundscape and punchy trap drums that form the foundation for his melodic runs and unapologetic love-laden lyrics. He takes time to pour adulations on a lady who caught his heart and he assures her that he is the one for her. The video captures him in his element as he hangs out with the lead lady and shows the naysayers that the love between them is true.

MO. – “LIFESTYLE”

Dippakunda, Gambia-born rapper MO is representing his home country to the fullest with his new release titled “LIFESTYLE”. The track is a bouncy and somewhat cinematic piece that showcases his off-kilter rapping style and vivid lyrics that talk about having pride in oneself and one’s roots. The visual is vibrant and sees the rapper alongside his friends having fun. It’s simple and quite energetic as well.

Nia Asiel – “Word on the Street”.

“Word On The Street,”  is the newest release from Nia Asiel, an emerging singer/songwriter. Over the dark and moody trap backdrop provided by Caaprie, Nia delivers a sultry and alluring performance ripe with graphic lyrics that dwell on the trappings of being stuck in street life with no one to call for help. The visual is cinematic as well and makes use of excellent storyboarding that follows the life of an individual who gets deep into the ways of the street.

KidParrish – “Right Now”.

KidParrish makes his entry on our list with this soulful tune titled “Right Now” which dives into his life’s journey and the ups and downs of it all. Over the vocal-sample-laden backdrop, KidParrish pours his heart on wax and points out how the detractors and naysayers try to sway him from reaching his true potential. The video is shot by OKAYKEN who uses simple cut scenes and performance shots of the rapper in the studio.

Vin Jay – “Brain Dead”

Vin Jay reveals the minimalist and visually striking new video for “Brain Dead,” the bravado-laced banger off his upcoming EP, Karma. The track is as boisterous as they come and involves plenty of ferocious rhyme schemes and sh*t talking. According to Vin Jay, he wanted to write a track that was equal parts braggadocio and inspirational. “It’s a lyrical record that I hope will inspire people to get up and reach their full potential,” he says. The video is directed by Anickan, a fellow artist as well as an award-winning indie film director. And you can tell there’s some real talent behind the lens—and in front of it—in how such a seemingly straightforward set can come to life in “Brain Dead.” It’s really just Vin Jay and a chair, but there’s so much more to it thanks to Anickan and, of course, the man on the mic.

Bobby Thibs – “DONT WORRY”

Hardworking rapper Bobby Thibs returns with a new single “DONT WORRY” which dives into the growth of an artist who has seen the ups and downs of life. Over a sombre and somewhat melancholic backdrop, he takes us deep into his life. The accompanying visual has a psychedelic element similar to A Scanner Darkly’s rotoscoping style.

Ridge Long – “Heartbroke”

Ridge Long closes out this week’s list with “Heartbroke”, a heartfelt and solemn tune that dwells on the pain from trauma and heartbreak. The production is smooth and punchy and fits Ridge Long’s melodic flow and heartfelt lyrics. The visual is engaging and makes use of subtle and eye-catching visual effects.