FREEDOM

GRAMMY-nominated global artist Matt B has released his new single “Freedom” featuring Motswana mo Erongo, the latest from his Afrobeats album ALKEBULAN (pronounced al-kee-boulan),
out August 18th via Vitae Records. Drawing inspiration from the tale of a caged bird experiencing newfound freedom, the vibrant track encapsulates Matt’s transformative journey as he connects with Africa's deep-rooted culture over an abundance of rhythmic percussion and woodwinds amplified by harmonic chants. Filmed on the shores of Africa, the music video — directed by Matt’s multi-talented wife, manager, and producer Angela V. Benson — features captivating views of the Motherland as well as African dancers and a ceremonial campfire scene, further acknowledging the acceptance Matt experienced when he first stepped foot in Africa.

On the concept behind the track, Matt shares, “Earlier this year, I came down sick with COVID and I was quarantined in my room, writing and tweaking a bunch of different songs for the album. It was hard being locked away because I’m used to being on the go and a free spirit, but every morning when I looked out my window I would see a little bird sitting on my balcony. Every time it would fly away, I would long for that same freedom. As I thought deeper about that, it made me realize how a lot of us here in America are like caged birds. We long to know our roots and where we come from and are in constant search of finding their way ‘home.’ That feeling inspired me to write ‘FREEDOM,’ which depicts me as a bird traveling across the ocean in hopes of reconnecting with my ancestral roots. It’s a song of longing, connection, and celebration. My hope is that it will inspire others, especially African Americans, to dive deeper into their ancestry and eventually return home to the Motherland."