With Billiki music video, Lee Brown beams searchlight on child abuse in Africa

Renowned Jazz, Blues and Folk music artiste, Justina Lee Brown, has released a poignant new music video for her latest single, Billiki.

The video, which premiered on July 27, 2024, brings to life the haunting narrative of the song, capturing the essence of Brown’s powerful message on child insecurity and abuse in Nigeria and across Africa.

Billiki is a stirring ballad that intertwines personal pain with a broader social commentary. The video visually amplifies the song’s emotional depth, featuring evocative scenes that reflect the tragic story of the eponymous character; a young girl who goes missing while fetching water for her family. Through striking imagery and Brown’s soul-stirring performance, the video lays bare the harsh realities faced by many children in underprivileged communities.

The visual narrative aligns with the song’s exploration of serious issues such as child abuse, sexual harassment and violence. Scenes in the video poignantly depict the vulnerability of young girls, drawing a parallel to real-life tragedies like the deaths of Tina and Uwa, whose stories have shocked the nation.

Brown’s deep personal connection to the song is evident throughout the video.

Born in the impoverished slum of Ajegunle City, Lagos, and raised by a teenage mother, Brown’s own experiences of hardship and abuse inform the raw emotion in ‘Billiki’. The video’s stark portrayal of these experiences offers a powerful reflection on her journey from those harrowing beginnings to her current success.

Speaking about the video, Brown said: “The community should be a sanctuary, but for many, including myself, it was a place of fear and suffering. ‘Billiki’ is not just a song; it’s a narrative born from my reality and the struggles of countless others. This video aims to give a voice to those who have been silenced and to shine a light on the urgent need for change.”

The video’s cinematic quality and evocative imagery enhance the song’s haunting melodies and introspective lyrics. With its combination of striking visuals and emotional storytelling, it invites viewers to confront uncomfortable truths and reflect on the need for greater protection and support for vulnerable children.

Billiki is more than a music video; it is a call to action and a beacon of hope. The remix EP of Billiki started streaming on digital platforms from June 19, 2024, continuing Brown’s mission to raise awareness and inspire change.