Toronto-based dancehall artist Mark Clennon has just shared his new track “Kingston”—as well as its boldly-shot music video—out via Bonsound.
Just in time for Pride Month, the song explores what it’s like to be gay in Jamaica, erring on the side of hope for all communities facing marginalization in the country. The music video for the track is the first of its kind shot in Jamaica—showcasing an onscreen romance between two men.
“‘Kingston’ means so much to me, as it’s the first song I’ve written that directly addresses a same sex partner, as opposed to the more general terms I have used in the past,” Clennon shares. “It represents so much more than myself, it’s also a reflection of not only Jamaica’s intolerant views of the LGBTQ+ community but also of the hopes and aspirations of those within it.”
“Given the unique nature of the video, much care had to be taken to ensure that we were able to shoot all of the scenes without ruffling any feathers. All in all we are beyond proud of what we have been able to accomplish.”
“Kingston” follows Clennon’s 2021 EP, Foreign. Watch the video for the track above, and stream it below:
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