- Culture
- 28 Apr 21
While the video was directed by Gerard Walsh, the concept itself was formed by Chris Kabs.
Hot Press are delighted to premiere the moving video for 'More Than A Number', from Dublin-based singer-songwriter and producer Chris Kabs.
The single itself features a playful dance hall beat, colourful instrumentation jazz elements, alongside Chris’ warm vocal tone. Though the music is uplifting, the lyrics deliver a powerful message - inspired by the issue of police brutality.
"I had the visual vision for this song way before starting writing and producing this song," Chris tells Hot Press.
The video sees Chris Kabs alongside a group of people in a field of crops, attempting to escape the police and gun violence. Juxtaposed with a beautiful setting, Kabs' words state that the organisation built to protect the police has since become its most feared entity.
“It seems to be never-ending within the black community, with people being killed at the hands of police, and in Africa seeing black police men killing black people," the artist says of 'More Than A Number.
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"The aim of the song is to shed light on the matter and hopefully our voices and actions can make an impact.”
The song explores the convention we’ve all grown far too accustomed to: hearing endless statistics about police brutality. Through this song, Chris encourages listeners to think of the individual people and stories behind these statistics. He hopes this song can help further the movement to end both police brutality and racial injustice, which affects those living in Ireland.
Drawing influence from the likes of Labrinth, Wyclef Jean and Drake, Chris' work showcases his unique blend of pop, R&B, hip-hop and Afrobeat – a dynamic style is attributes to his time spent living in France and the Ivory Coast. The multi-talented artist speaks English, Swedish, French and Lingala, and has written written music in three of those languages.
As an influential producer, Kabs has had major success helping local and international artists. JyellowL’s single 'Ozone' was featured on FIFA 20 soundtrack, and ‘Oh Lawd’ for the acclaimed BBC/Hulu series Normal People. As an artist, Chris has released several successful singles and collaborations, and performed across the country at festivals and headline shows.
Last June, the talent also penned a tribute track for the Black Lives Matter movement titled 'No Justice, No Peace' - inspire by the popular protest chant. 'More Than A Number' follows the artist's 2021 single 'Your Ex'.
Watch the powerful visuals for 'More Than A Number' below: