Nina Simone 'I Put A Spell On You' by Gabriella Kingsley
Rob Ulitski - 27th Feb 2023
Gabriella Kingsley pays homage to Nina Simone in the artistic visual for I Put A Spell On You, to mark what would be the legendary musician's 90th birthday.
A cast of three dancers bring the concept to life, which aims to celebrate and empower black women, elevating Nina Simone’s legacy of championing black talent and beauty. The dancers also allude to Simone's compelling presence while performing in front of vibrant LED screen, which create five distinct visual worlds that showcase different aspects of Nina's legacy.
Poised, atmospheric and captivating, the video is a testament to Simone and her legacy, reimagined for modern audiences. From the cinematography by Jomar O'Meally and colour work by Jonny Tully to styling by Misi Africa, and adds a contemporary edge.
“Working on (this) iconic track was a dream come true for me," says Kingsley. "Concept-wise I knew straight away I wanted to capture strong, beautiful, black women and that’s what sparked the idea of recreating her iconic looks, because who represented that better than Nina herself.
“Asmara was cast for her powerful contemporary dance, which is just mesmerising to watch and she really knows how to tell a story through her movement. Sophia is known for her popular Afro dance moves which is a trend right now in the dance world and I felt it was important to appeal to the younger audience.
"And last, but not least, Priscilla, who has not danced for years, but her body structure and posture is just phenomenal. She is tall and slim and can create these beautiful shapes and poses.
"The crew and cast were meticulously chosen and they really executed my vision perfectly. Overall the process working with her estate, Verve and Untold Studios was a truly nourishing and liberating experience and I hope the world enjoys it as much as I did honouring the queen and legend that is Nina Simone.”
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Rob Ulitski - 27th Feb 2023
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Credits
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Production/Creative
- Director
- Gabriella Kingsley
- Producer
- Freddie Barrass
- Production Company
- US
- 1st AD
- Kofi Jr
Camera
- Director of Photography
- Jomar O’Meally
Lighting/Grip
- Gaffer
- London Lighting
Wardrobe
- Stylist
- Misi Africa
- Hair
- Yeama Saphare
- Make-up
- Monique Monroe
Choreography
- Movement Director
- Elanor Grace Hann
Casting
- Lead Dancer
- Priscilla Aanyabu
- Lead Dancer
- Sophia Akinyemi
- Lead Dancer
- Asmara Cammock
Editorial
- Editor
- Sara Faulkner
Grading
- Colourist
- Jonny Tully
- Colour grade company
- C
Commission
- Commissioner
- Liz Hart
- Label
- Verve Records
Rob Ulitski - 27th Feb 2023