KENZO, a French brand established in 1970 by Japanese designer, Kenzo Takada and now led by Creative Directors Humberto Leon and Carol Lim have launched his SS17 campaign staring Tracee Ellis Ross, Jesse Williams and Brooklyn-based cellist Kelsey Lu. Three Black entertainers that are known for being political activists in our community.

Director Khalil Joseph, who is notably recognized for his work in Beyonce’s Lemonade, collaborated with Leon and Lim to launch Music is My Mistress. Although Joesph has previously worked with the brand before.

Like many designers, the KENZO brand follows suit by using political messages to drive his campaign. The visual features original music from Lu and politically conscious rap group Shabazz Palaces, who both make appearances.

The film then goes on to illustrate Williams navigating through Los Angeles for months looking for a woman (Tracee Ellis Ross) described as “Black Royalty”. All the stars in the film are unsurprisingly wearing beautiful designs from the KENZO SS17 collection.

 

Throughout the film, there are quotes from notable musicians, Djibril Diop Mambety and Miles Davis about the importance of Black contributions to the entrainment industry.

 

Music is My Mistress sends a message to respect and embrace Black and minority ancestry which is extremely timely due to the current state of our political climate.

 

Check Out The Full Powerful Visual Below:

In this shapeshifting new film, Music is much more than mere sound and rhythm. This story casts music herself as the central character of an unfolding drama across cultures, space, and time.

jesse williams
kenzo
lemonade
spring summer 17
ss17
Tracee Ellis Ross