Ever have one of the late and crazy nights only to wake up amongst your friends on a rooftop under the surveillance of security drones? That’s just the case for Janelle Monáe and company in her new music video for “Screwed”, which was shared on Monday and features a cameo from the track’s guest vocalist, Zoë Kravitz. The song initially appeared on Monáe’s 2018 Grammy-nominated studio album, Dirty Computer, with Kravitz using those musical skills of hers to help her friend on backing vocals.
The video opens up with Monáe and her friends waking from what looked to be a long night of fun, only to realize that an aerial security drone is hovering above them like a robotic creep. They quickly scatter and venture their way through a mix of different settings, including an underground rave and a makeshift art installation. The video also makes sure to include video footage of current social issues, including protests, the Statue of Liberty, a young woman wearing a Hijab, and drought-stricken landscapes.
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Actress Tessa Thompson also makes a cameo in the video, although her’s isn’t necessarily as loose and fun as the overall theme. Her character is actually kidnapped by the mysterious security force towards the end of the video. Her fictional safety and whereabouts remain a mystery.
Janelle Monáe – “Screwed” (feat. Zoë Kravitz) – Official Video
[Video: Janelle Monáe]
The music video is actually part of Monáe’s larger film project themed around the album, titled, Dirty Computer – An Emotion Picture. The 46-minute project is also on YouTube and can be watched in full here.
Monáe made headlines last week when her name was included in Coachella‘s 2019 lineup announcement along with Tame Impala, Childish Gambino, and Ariana Grande. Monáe is also rumored to appear on the 2019 Bonnaroo lineup when it’s announced later this week.