September 8th, 2017, Princess Nokia (Destiny) dropped visuals for her song “Flava” a new song on the deluxe version of her 1992 mixtape. The first three minutes of the video which was co-directed by Destiny herself, and Milah Libin, depicts Destiny and her three friends doing one another's hair, dancing, laughing, and smoking blunts all in the small setting of an apartment. Narrating her personal experience, she introduces her ideas on a more serious platform in conjunction with one of her more playful songs on the album. She described this three-minute introduction to "Flava" in an Instagram post as a desire to “depict a portrayal of urban sisterhood with a narration that foreshadows the intersectionality of self-esteem, self-love, and cultural appropriation of urban beauty in mainstream media.”
In the current state of the world, we need nothing but upliftment, positivity, and support and this video rises to the occasion. “That is because we are made different from each other, but all girls are meant to shine. All girls are meant to be something special in this world, even if they’re told they’re not supposed to be…They might paint a pretty picture of your likeness but you are just as deserving. In fact, you deserve even more” preaches Princess Nokia. As the three-minute narration of empowerment comes to a close we see the four vibrant women change from pajamas to colorful pastel suits, clad in pearls, hats, and satin gloves.
This short film coupled with the deluxe 1992 mixtape, supports the fiery nature of the album. Using her powerful voice and musical platform, Princess Nokia calls for high self-esteem and self-love while condemning the cultural appropriation of urban beauty. This truly powerful video is something you do not want to miss.
Hailey Stewart is a 23-year-old freelance writer. When not writing or dancing the night away at shows, she spends her time modeling on the side and substitute teaching high school English. She loves flowing through yoga, surfing, and sharing the beauty of human nature //human experience through writing. Contact: haileylynnstewart@gmail.com ; @hippie.hailz
