The importance of UK block music videos

UK rap has been around since the sound system era, a time which was pioneered by the Windrush generation. Black-British music was born in communities familiar with dancehall, electronic music and afro-funk. 

In the past 40 years, the exponential growth of UK rap has been astronomical, especially considering the size and population of Britain. There have been multiple products of UK rap, including, grime, drill, street, wave and many others.

Although UK rap has changed over time, it has managed to remain consistent in the way it is expressed. The very essence of UK rap is working class, it is youth-led music and acts as a mode of self-representation. Every so often the music videos that accompany UK rap result in debates about its creativity. While there are valid critiques about UK rap music videos, the significance they pose in the music world should not be overlooked. The music videos produced by UK rappers will always be important, particularly the music videos shot on estates. This piece will explore block videos and their importance. 

UK rappers have always struggled with navigating the music industry, an industry that has never accommodated rap music. The attitude towards hip-hop and those who participate in the genre has led to a DIY approach from rappers and the creative teams they work with.  UK rappers utilise resources and backdrops that are close to them. There is a consistency in the drone shots of the city skyline, chicken shops, petrol stations and famous estates that resonate with the UK population. These are homegrown images that can feel repetitive and boring, but there is beauty in familiarity.  Creatively, block videos seem limited but there is a signature style block videos have. This quintessential, British rap music video style cannot be emulated by anyone else in the world.

Music videos shot on blocks aka estates have been essential in UK rap since its emergence.

This particular kind of music video is incredibly accessible. The fact that these music videos are not conceptually far-fetched makes them all the more enjoyable. Anyone can do it. They are authentic and mirror the realities of the rappers in these music videos. Since there is no interference from the elite or those who have a higher status in society, these videos allow rappers to practise their autonomy and self-expression, these music videos are conversational. 

Each block video is a way for a rapper to exercise their right to be heard in their homes. These are genuine videos that provide a close analysis of London and metropolitan cities across the UK. The cultural value of block videos is outstanding and the uncompromising nature of rap music videos are building a legacy from 410 ‘Think Again’ to OFB ‘Ambush’.