After pairing with DJ Avicii to score the worldwide dance-folk-country hit “Wake Me Up,” Aloe Blacc is stepping out solo in the music video for “The Man.” Viewers must first get past the anachronism that is a smartphone promoting the Beats Music app among a sea of throwback looks, including afros, tied shirts and old-school football jerseys. Throughout the rest of the clip, Aloe moves slowly through a variety of changing scenes. While the song’s lyrics may come across as him bragging, the visuals pay tribute to black history. Blacc — in an outfit that looks like a leftover costume from a Shaft flick — is seen stepping through a dangerous part of town, complete with cops and pushers running for cover. But later, a peaceful protest turned riot serves as the scene before homages to Marvin Gaye and Malcolm X, among others, appear. The variety, along with the soul singer’s intriguing visuals, compliments the tune and adds an extra layer of interpretation to the track. And who doesn’t love the juxtaposition of history and fashion?
