Nottingham, UK-based neo-soul duo MELONYX shares the visuals for their Joe Buhdha-produced track titled "Melanin Queens," taken from their recently released Black Elixir EP. The duo first popped on our radar earlier this year with the lead single "Energy" which introduced us to their smooth blend of hip-hop, neo soul, and a lovers' brand of rock.
"Melanin Queens" continues their collaborative effort with Joe Buhdha who laces the ladies with a sublime and warm soundscape to express the strength and value of the black woman. From the tandem vocal performances where both singers seamlessly weave their distinct vocals with soothing melodic runs and expert timing to the unapologetic swagger, "Melanin Queens" surely embodies the black girl magic mantra to the fullest.
The visuals by Ernest Simons reinforce the empowering message by showcasing the beauty of black women from all walks of life, shapes, and forms as they live their truth without societal restraints. I like how the director focuses more on capturing the ladies in their natural state than anything else but the bright costumes and performance shots don't go unnoticed and serves to augment the clip. In a nutshell, the whole affair aims to amplify the voices of their melanated sisters.
MELONYX has performed at Gilles Peterson’s We Out Here Festival, toured with Acoustickle, and supported events organized by soul legend Terri Walker. Harking back to their community roots, they have also given workshops aimed at getting young people involved with music and events, organized free online yoga for African and Caribbean women during the lockdown, and present a regular Soul Selection show on 97.5 Kemet FM radio.
"Melanin Queens" is taken from the “Black Elixir EP.” Get it on all DSPs here.
