Have you been craving some more Emeli Sandé in your life? Us too! That’s why we’re excited to be premiering her new video for “I’ll Get There (The Other Side)”.
Written by eleven-time Oscar nominee Diane Warren, the song stands for hope in hard times and radical optimism — a message we can all get behind. Thanks to understated accompanying visuals, directed by Rankin, Emeli’s powerful words can fully resonate, with the camerawork accentuating her emotive delivery.
“I’ll Get There (The Other Side)” is taken from the soundtrack of new film EMPEROR; a powerful historical drama retelling the true story of Shields Green, a former slave who led the raid at Harpers Ferry, a key battle of the abolitionist movement. Placed in the context of pre-Civil War America, the song’s meaning is amplified and pays respect to the Black pain, resilience and power that can be traced through generations.
Speaking about the track, Emeli says; “I was so inspired by the true legend of Sheilds ‘Emperor’ Green that the film is based on. The film is a reminder of African royalty, dignity and perseverance which shone through even during the darkest, most oppressive periods of our history.
“It is a reminder to me that no matter what situation you may be placed in physically, freedom of the mind and innate self-respect, although difficult, is ultimately within our control,” she adds. “Only through knowledge of our true history can this be made secure. I hope that in singing this song, I can play a small part in paying homage to my ancestors’ unbreakable spirit of determination for freedom”
EMPEROR’s soundtrack is released today (7 August).
Want to watch the video for “I’ll Get There (The Other Side)” before everybody else? Check it out below.
