Neo-soul man Cody Chesnutt invokes the African diaspora all up and through the new visuals for his single "I've Been Life" off his 2012 album Landing on a Hundred. Drafting the Brooklyn Jumbiesto reflect some Afro-Caribbean traditions in the streets of Bed-Stuy, Chesnutt shouts out several countries of the mother-continent at the beginning of the video and creates a celebratory feel as he vocalizes over the vintage soul track. The footage premiered today on Rolling Stone —here's a bit Chesnutt shared about the song, video, and what he sets out to do as an artist:
There's a fresh, creative energy and rising consciousness on the African continent and throughout the diaspora. "I've Been Life" is one of the many ways in which I hope to make a healthy contribution to this promising movement.
To catch Chesnutt in living color, check out his upcoming US tour dates below and until then, let the video hold you over:
