D.Matthews’ new single ‘Sunrise’ is a love letter to one of the world’s most beautiful countries
Subscribe
X

Get the latest from Beat

D.Matthews’ new single ‘Sunrise’ is a love letter to one of the world’s most beautiful countries

The Auckland-based Nigerian singer-songwriter embraces the beauty of New Zealand.

New Zealand (Aotearoa) is a magical place. With untamed wilderness, rich culture, mist-cloaked fjords, rolling green hills, golden beaches and some of the friendliest locals you’ll ever meet, it’s a place of natural beauty.

In an ode to paradise, Auckland-based Nigerian singer-songwriter, D.Matthews has revealed his new single, ‘Sunrise’, which seeks to embrace the country’s serenity and stunning landscapes.

A perfect representation of his idiosyncratic style and abundant charisma, ‘Sunrise’ features loads of feel-good energy, underpinned by infectiously slick raps, a lively blend of Afrobeats/Afropop, stylistic jazzy rhythms, and body-moving melodies, making for a truly uplifting listen.

Taking cues from the likes of Afrobeat singer Burna Boy, fellow Nigerian singer-songwriter WizKid, and alternative neo-soul songstresses Kehlani and Tinashe, the single carries you along with its four-to-the-floor beat, vibrant horns and African percussion.

Very quickly you’re completely drawn in by the beat of Africa and D.Matthews’ stimulating lyrics for the duration of the entirely infectious three-minute track.

“Aotearoa was classified as the second safest country globally during the time of COVID-19. The first to see sunrise, the structure of the hills and valleys cannot be compared with any other country,” D.Matthews explains.

“This track was purposely made to embrace Aotearoa’s peacefulness and prominent landscape.”

Alongside the single, D.Matthews’ has also revealed the accompanying music video, which matches the buoyant and appreciative feel of the track.

Visually, the clip is reminiscent of a light-hearted home video, seesawing between vivid colours, and black and white with a vignette.

Showcasing D.Matthews to the backdrop of Aotearoa, the visual narrative of the film clip represents the underlying theme of the track which explores the beauty of the country and its culture.

“In the clip, you will also see the implementation of the ‘tekoteko’ which represents the phenomenal culture of Aotearoa,” he adds. “Moreover, wiring the beat from the roots of Africa and still taking the lyrics to how the streets of Africa is addressed. Nigeria to be precise.”

Alongside the landscape, the clip also depicts flashes of the commotion happening in America and Nigeria, further making comment on the peaceful nature of the island country.

“Amidst it all, the commotions that was present/active during the COVID-19 crisis was not palatable in all spheres, but still, New Zealand stays steadfast in everything. Keeping at its highest toes as the second safest country worldwide during the time.”

Having only kicked off his musical career in recent years, ‘Sunrise’ follows recent releases ‘One Love’ and his five-track EP Renewal, all showcasing D.Matthews’ undeniable talent to transport listeners audibly through his unique brand of energic calm Afrobeat/Afropop.

Inspiring, upbeat and body-moving music for the heart and soul, and you just can’t help but love it.

Check out the film clip for ‘Sunrise’ below.

Keep up with D.Matthews on Instagram and Facebook.

Never miss a story. Sign up to Beat’s newsletter and you’ll be served fresh music, arts, food and culture stories three times a week.