The Artist Explains: Kij - 'Ok'
London-based rap artist Kij speaks to us about his single and music video, ‘Ok’ which promotes mental wellness and self confidence.
Where was the video for ‘Ok’ filmed?
Peabody Estate, Blackfriairs Road; where Kij grew up for 15 years before moving to Kennington.
How does the video connect with the song?
The song ‘Ok’ speaks on self-doubts and overcoming them. The theme is that we’re not where we want to be but we’re ok. It’s not perfect but it’s ok. This is depicted in the visuals as the character has to go through a few setbacks with his costume and bounce back with a new one.
Do you have any behind the scenes stories you can share with us?
We had been sharing a lot of spaces on the premises; with a cleaner who was on duty to tidy the estate. At times we entered spaces that he had just cleaned; at other times it was areas he was about to clean. In the end he had had enough of us recording on his turf and sneakily locked us in the waste disposal area where we had been shooting our final takes. We had to climb over the fences with all camera and lighting equipment, cheeky guy.
Could you tell us about the ideas/themes/imagery used?
As aforementioned the theme of the video is bouncing back and overcoming internal and external challenges. The camera looping around Kij felt right with the vibe of the song, helping to lock viewers in a trance of interest. A couple animations were used to give the video a light comedic element.
Is there a message the video is trying to convey?
“We’re alright, we’re okay, we’re alright, said it’ll be okay”. Whatever comes our way, however inadequate and far from our goals we feel we are in this very moment; we are and will always be ok. A song and visual promoting mental wellness and self confidence
Interview by Karla Harris