Pharrell first dropped the “Freedom” video on Apple Music a few weeks ago, but today it debuted on YouTube for the teeming masses. And teeming masses is what we get here. Lots of stampeding stallions. And undulating flocks of birds. And sweeping panoramic views of mountains. But as gorgeous as he visuals are (and, truly, they are National Geographic quality), it’s not just about pretty images. Pharrell sings (and shouts, oh just you wait) about places where freedom is stifled – sweatshops, work camps, a LegoTiananmen Square… Yes, this is a MESSAGE video, and it’s a BIG MESSAGE, make no mistake about it – we’re talking U2 big. And yet, despite Pharrell’s emphatic shrieking, I’m not really sure he knows what he’s trying to tell us. Just a lot of sound and fury, signifying nothing, if you ask me.
USA Today agrees:
It’s “Freedom,” a very catchy song I think is supposed to be about social resistance but I’m not sure is about anything at all. Here are some of the lyrics:
“Hold on to me / Don’t let me go / Who cares what they see? / Who cares what they know?” the song begins, perplexingly. From there he personifies Freedom as all of us, or something, then asks: “Mind use your power / Spirit use your wings.” To do what exactly? Not sure. He just starts singing “Freedom!”
Then we get the kicker:
When a baby first breathes
When night sees sunrise
When the whale hunts in the sea
When man recognizes
Freedom!
Freedom!
Freedom!What does it mean? Not sure. Something about people being inherently free. All people, I guess. But the “worldly” video doesn’t specify anything. We’re all free, apparently! Good! Recognize that, people! Awareness!
Watch it below.
And just because:
The post Yes, You Need to See Pharrell’s Mesmerizing New Video “Freedom” – And Decide For Yourself What It Means appeared first on World of Wonder.