Placing Yani Mo’s “Anointed” among 2018’s best local tracks was a no-brainer. Far more than just a compelling song with dope production, the track was a rarefied slice of spiritual poetry that saw the Lithonia rapper addressing her existential conundrums with grace and thoughtful insight. Hip-hop is often beautiful, but less often is it regarded as vulnerable and rapturous. With “Anointed,” Yani Mo hits the trifecta; more remarkably, she does so with style and poise.
Directed and edited by Jasmine Bradley and Ryann Jet, the accompanying video was released late last month and features Yani Mo delivering her transcendent bars amidst the tranquility of nature. The forest pathways and tree-lined backdrop provide an ideal accompaniment to her serene flow, and when those visuals become juxtaposed against scenes of a queer couple intimately sharing a glass of wine, the lyrics seem to take on even greater poignancy. It’s an all-around wonderful effort, and a powerful reminder of Yani Mo’s creative prowess.
Watch/listen above.
More Info
Web: yanimomusic.com
Bandcamp: yanimo.bandcamp.com
Facebook: @itsyanimo
Instagram: @yanimo_
SoundCloud: @yanimo
Twitter: @yani_mo