Ghetts - IC3 ft. Skepta video

‘IC3’ is the new collaboration between UK artists Ghetts and Skepta. The single tackles themes of racism and growing up as black men in the UK, with some extremely poignant lyrics. I would recommend everyone to go and listen to the song but if you get the chance, to watch the music video as well. The music video has this roadside feel, taking place outside a very understated cornershop. The animation, done by Ruff Mercy, adds this eerie, disjointed feeling, almost as if the frames are being drawn as the video plays. Although it is full of eye-catching imagery, there is one section in particular that I found to be the most impactful.

The section in question is the title sequence where the name ‘IC3’ is shown, as it is an example of almost flawless visual metaphor. For those that don’t know, ‘IC3’ is the term used by police in the UK to identify black males. Instantly, this puts forward the theme of police racism in the UK. However, the make-up of the text is what really makes it special. The ‘I’ is made by Ghett’s figure, telling us this song is without a doubt based on personal experience. The ‘C’ is made from a fingerprint, obviously referencing police databasing. The ‘3’ is made from a handcuff, no explanation needed there. In a simple 3 characters, the theme of the entire song is captured beautifully.

Watch the video for yourself at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cxgpwRSKspA