This past October, Chicago artist and poet Jamila Woods released her third studio album, Water Made Us, a rich and captivating collection of 17 songs with features from Saba and duendita. Ahead of embarking on her tour for the LP later this week, Woods has unveiled an official music video for the album cut “Still.”
Directed by Hollis Wong-Wear, the visual draws on the singer’s poetic approach to her work, where songs and videos alike are often layered with meaning. Shots see Woods walking down the street, playing the guitar and being embraced by the glittery silhouette of a figure.
“”Still” is a song about the space before “getting over,” the period of time where you feel the presence of a past love even when they’re long gone,” Woods says. “Sometimes ignoring or resisting the memories doesn’t help, you have to let them in, offer them a glass of water and maybe even dance with them in order for them to finally let you go.”
For this effort, Woods enlisted the dancer Owen Scarlett to play the character of “Abscence,” representing this loved one. Jas Lin choreographed the dances performed by Scarlett and Woods herself.
Water Made Us was executive produced by McClenny and Woods with production also contributed by Wynne Bennet, Alissia Benveniste and Peter CottonTale. The album’s tour kicks off on Wednesday, February 1, in Seattle, Washington.
Watch Jamila Woods’ “Still” music video above and stream Water Made Us everywhere now.