Shame Gang feat. Lute & Cyanca “I Survive” (Video)

Shame Gang and Lute open up on trauma and loss in the Spike Lee-inspired “I Survive” video.

Shame Gang released his new album, ‘Better Late Than Never‘, last week via Manifest Destiny/Roc Nation’s Equity Distribution.

The deeply personal, introspective, and largely anecdotal project follows the story of Shame’s life as a car mechanic striving for greener pastures as a professional Rap star.

With a guest verse from J. Cole’s Grammy-nominated artist Lute and the stirring voice of soul singer Cyanca on the hook, album standout “I Survive” highlights the resilience of the human spirit through life’s setbacks, betrayal, trauma, and profound loss.

The tragic loss of Shame’s older brother and mentor Manny, and the recent passing of Lute’s father anchor the song’s Dan Mercer-directed music video, which debuted today (4.13.2023).

“I think with this video I wanted to be as transparent as possible with the loss of my brother. Me and Lute actually came together for the initial plot of the video because we both dealt with the loss of a loved one recently and wanted to to honor them in a way plus show that there’s light at the end of the tunnel. We can survive anything through our trials and tribulations.” –Shame Gang

“With the ‘I Survive’ video, we wanted to create something visually beautiful to match the tone of the song. We decided to showcase some of our favorite spots in Raleigh, NC, but film each artist at a different time of day to give contrast for the split screen effect. We also were clearly influenced by Spike Lee, utilizing his signature dolly shot.” –Dan Mercer of Seven Foot Giant

‘Better Late Than Never’ follows Shame Gang’s lauded 2021 sophomore effort ‘No Safe Haven‘, and features Skyzoo, Smoke DZA, Dreamville’s Lute, Little Brother’s Rapper Big Pooh, Oswin Benjamin, and more.