Jay-Z & Beyonce sit on a throne-like chair, in the artistic rap video “ApeS**t”
If you saw Ciara and Russell Wilson’s Halloween costumes this year, then the first thing you probably did was get on YouTube and look up The Carters’ “Apeshit.” At least, that’s what we did upon seeing the iconic look, which was flawlessly pulled off by the musician and her NFL star husband. When looking at the YouTube comments, that was definitely the case for many fans. In fact, nearly every top comment on the video was posted today, each going along the lines of “like if you here because of Ciara and Russ.” However, the song and video are so iconic that you might find yourself regularly watching the video, and for good reason. The Carters’ “Apeshit” is an iconic song, and will be another milestone in the long, illustrious careers of the two music legends.
The Song
Clocking in at over six minutes, “Apeshit” definitely defies the hop hop trope of “short & sweet.” The song takes its time, repeating little lilts and flicks enough times for you to realize how catchy they are in one listen. Within two listens of the track, you’ll be chiming in with every “skirt” and “doo doo doo.” The track also showcases Beyonce’s underutilized rapping skills, which show up many mainstream rappers nowadays. And of course, Jay-Z’s verse is a defining moment in the artist’s career. Even though Beyonce dominates The Carters’ “Apeshit,” her husband isn’t overshadowed whatsoever.
The Video
The video, directed by Ricky Saiz and filmed in the Louve, redefines “rich.” Never have I felt so poor as when I was watching the video. However, the stunning shots and complex costumes never make you feel envious – if anything, they’re inspiring. The camera pans over centuries-old art pieces, most produced by and for white people. However, whose video is this? Who’s in every shot? The ever-black, every-stylish, ever-poetic Carters. This point is emphasized multiple times in the lyrics, which Beyonce delivers with a knowing grin: “I can’t believe we made it.” Yes you can, Beyonce – and we can too.
The Point
While it may have taken Russell and Ciara to revitalize interest in the year-old video, The Carters’ “Apeshit” was bound to return to the mainstream. It was just a matter of time. There’s too much style and effortless poetry in every line and second of the visual masterpiece to be ignored. It’s proof that Jay-Z and Beyonce work just as well together as they do apart … Plus, a slap in the face to all the haters that says no matter what, they made it.
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