After dropping a succession of EPs (Game Over and Six Paths) in the past few years and topping the charts with Funky Friday in October, anticipation has been building for UK rapper Dave to release his first full-length. Yesterday (21 February), fans were given a date to look forward to, with Dave announcing that his debut album Psychodrama will land on 8 March.
Furthermore, the south London artist gave a taste of what’s to come by dropping the lead single Black and its accompanying video: a powerful exploration of black identity filmed in London, Manchester and Lagos. Directed by long-term collaborator Nathan James Tettey and newcomer Edem Wornoo, the visuals feature an ensemble of black icons like Stormzy, Raheem Sterling, Dina Asher-Smith and more. Watch the video above, and read our list below for a full rundown of all the cameos.
Ozwald Boateng OBE
Celebrated British fashion designer Ozwald Boateng can be seen fitting Dave into an impeccably tailored suit. Boateng is known for his sharp tailoring skills – acquired from his stint at Savile Row – and his directorship at Givenchy Homme from 2003-2007. However beyond the bespoke garments, it’s worth noting that Boateng is a designer whose work is a celebration of his Ghanaian heritage – from the themes of his shows to the details and use of fabrics. His Africanism collection, from April 2018, saw him explore ideas of African luxury, and in an essay for Vogue, he wrote, “Empowered by ancestral stories recreated for a new Africa, a new world. The celebration of Heroes, Kings and Queens, inspiration for the future, the next generation.”
Raheem Sterling
Manchester City and England footballer Raheem Sterling also makes an appearance, revealing his M16 assault rifle leg tattoo in the video. The piece caused an uproar in the tabloids last year, with anti-gun campaigners calling for his removal from the England squad. Sterling was quick to defend the tattoo, however, explaining that it’s a reference to his father who was shot when he was a child; and how the tattoo symbolises his own vow to never touch a gun.
Dr Anne-Marie Imafidon MBE
Dr Anne-Marie Imafidon MBE is a leading British figure in maths and science. After starting her undergraduate degree at Oxford University at the age of 15, she went on to become the University’s youngest master’s graduate. Now she serves as the CEO of Stemettes, an organisation promoting women in STEM.
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