In this new entry in our ‘Diamonds In The Rough’ category, we want to introduce you to upcoming artist Kestine and his brand new single titled “U.N.I.T.Y”.
Black Irish rapper Kestine is boldly challenging the status quo this Black History Month with an empowering new music video for latest hit release, “U.N.I.T.Y|. Influenced by the recent Black Lives Matter crusade, Kestine takes an honest approach to racial injustice movements as he spits bars and lays down rhymes about the hypocrisy of those who claim to stand behind the banner of justice and equality.
The powerful and symbolic music video features a poised and eloquent Kestine personifying his words, surrounded by religious imagery – a nod to his upbringing in a spiritual household. The talented musician draws on his lived experiences, both as a musician and a black man, to create a soulful and passionate track featuring an ensemble of ethereal keys and saxophone driven by a J Dilla-inspired drum backbeat.
Kestine preaches his prose with a hard-hitting message reflecting on the sacrifices the black community has made, and how it has been let down by the same people that seek greatness.
“Seeing black Irish people establishing themselves and setting a precedence of excellence is astonishing,” he said. “However, there are too many of our brothers stabbing each other up and claiming ‘gang life’. It’s sad to see some of us are blind and forget the sacrifices our parents made for us to have an opportunity.”
“U.N.I.T.Y” is an ode to Queen Latifhas’ hit namesake track intertwined with Kestine’s interpretation of recent BLM events and his experiences as a black Irishman. The music video was released following the success of Kestine’s EP – Reflection – and was directed by Dublin’s Brian McDonnell.
Listen and watch below: