Uko by Avril

The 'haunting' images in Uko (= slang for "Where are you?") leave no doubt that we have here video art of the highest quality. Due credit to Director J Blessing, then. It is all in support of the main idea here: Avril as a young lady desperately and with obvious frustration searching for her out-of-sight friends. 

Click to watch the video

They are very much on her agitated mind. She loves them, even: "Where are you, you, you!" And we have more than a hint that there is a particular man in the mix, camouflaged by the plurality. You can discern this in the singular "Uko" in the song's title, and in the body of the lyrics, written both in Swahili and English: "Uko, uko, uko, uko...". Shame on him!

This is a classical, and universal, story-line. It's owned by no one living. It all depends on how you treat it. Avril has been accused of blatantly copying Beyonce (see the comments below the video). I've had no time yet to check this out, but when I do I'll have to weigh it against that universal thread. In the meantime, I take the video at face value.

Avril's vocal performance, at the core of it all, is of the highest order as well. Her acting amply mirrors it. Her voice is distinctly hers -- indubitably Avril's. The background music is truly equal to the task. It is inspired and captivating. The band super-performs. This is a fine, fine show.


Here are the Uko lyrics