Musician, singer and saxophonist Kenneth Whalum unveils a captivating new video for his inspiring single titled “Away,” featuring Def Jam’s finest, Big K.R.I.T.

The compelling, black and white visual, shot entirely in Whalum’s hometown of Memphis, Tennesee, creatively encapsulates the lyrical inspiration of hope heard on the track. Both known for their social consciousness and love for real music, Whalum and K.R.I.T. are back with a perfect pairing following their collaboration on K.R.I.T.’s masterpiece of an album titled “Cadillactica” on the song “Stand By.”

“When I first heard this song from Kenneth, I thought it was amazing. It sounded like something I hadn’t been apart of yet. It’s all live instrumentation and it has so much soul and passion in it. It made it easier to write my verse and I felt I could express myself in a way I’ve always wanted to,” notes Big K.R.I.T. “It’s always dope to work with the homie. It’s a blessing to be apart of this. I’m proud of what Ken is putting out right now. He’s making music that artists in the future can sample instead of what we sample now.”

Whalum says, “I always want to make music that I would want to hear and being from Memphis has played a huge part. They’ve always supported me since the beginning and I was happy to bring an artist like K.R.I.T. to shoot the video there. He’s one of my favorite artists and he possesses a sense of awareness and sensitivity. We both have a mutual respect for each other’s approach to music and what we stand for,” the inspirational artist says. “I just want people to listen. We all have similar struggles emotionally – good or bad – and this song is a quick reminder that it’s all good…everything is going to be ok,” Whalum assures.

“Away” is the first official single from Whalum’s highly anticipated upcoming album titled “Through Hell and High Water,” slated for an August release. The multi-faceted artist is currently on a nationwide tour with D’Angelo and his Vanguard band, while Big K.R.I.T. is keeping busy in the studio recording his top secret new project, and working behind the scenes.

Check out the visuals below, and share your thoughts!

The post New Video: Kenneth Whalum Feat. BIG K.R.I.T. – “Away” appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

Beyond the vocals, the track is driven by a patient piano, anxious drums and a critical change in tone toward the end of the song. Whalum is a composer, tenor saxophonist and arranger and all of these skills shine on the song. His upcoming album, Through Hell & Highwater, should be an interesting listen. In the meantime, listen to “Away” below.

The post New Music: Kenneth Whalum feat. Big K.R.I.T. – “Away” appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.