Jay-Z recently dropped off a trifecta of 4:44 videos, putting in work to deliver a full on visual component to his most personal album yet. The first is for album highlight "Smile," a track in which Jay reflects on his young mother's plight - growing up as a closeted lesbian. While the lyrics are powerful in and of themselves, seeing a creative interpretation come to life imbues the track with a bittersweet vibe, that might have been otherwise lost on a listener. As has been the case for every 4:44 clip, the cinematography is on point, with beautiful camera work, composition, and lighting.
There's much to unpack here, and it will probably require multiple viewings to break down the full extent of the narrative. If you have Tidal, be sure to check out "Smile," as well as the other two videos for "Legacy" and "Marcy Me."