R&B star Jhene Aiko has teamed up with hip hop legend Nas for her latest music video “10k Hours,” which was featured on her latest studio album release Chilombo. This music video is shot in black-and-white and shows Aiko singing while donned in an extravagant dress and Nas rapping in a suit.
“10k Hours,” highlights Aiko’s earnest lyricism and lovelorn themes, putting a special emphasis on her powerful voice across a melancholy piano melody and steady hip hop infused beat. Nas gives a mellow rap delivery, utilizing his signature flow, imagery and wordplay that discusses his love for a romantic partner.
Aiko was nominated for several Grammys this year thanks to Chilombo, which garnered nods for Album of The Year, Best Progressive R&B Album and Best R&B Performance thanks to the song “Lightning & Thunder” featuring John Legend. In addition to Legend and Nas, the studio album had a stacked guest lineup featuring the likes of Big Sean, Ab-Soul, H.E.R., Future and Miguel. The album detailed Aiko’s past relationships and their aftermaths and was supported by a number of singles including “Summer 2020,” “One Way St.” and “B.S.”
“I make music for healing purposes, for myself,” Aiko explained in an interview with Essence. “It’s like journaling or when people paint. It’s sort of an escape. It’s turning pain or frustration into something; into art. Sharing it is also therapeutic because when people express to you that they are relating to it, you’re like, ‘Oh, I’m not alone in what I’m going through.’”