Travis Scott collaborates with Tyla and Vybz Kartel in the electrifying 'PBT' video, a track that blends Afrobeats, dancehall, and hip hop, marking a new sound frontier.
Travis Scott, one of hip hop’s most enigmatic performers, has done it again. This time, he teams up with rising South African artist Tyla and legendary dancehall artist Vybz Kartel for a pulsating visual experience in their latest music video, “PBT.” Released on December 17, this Nabil-directed video isn’t just a visual feast; it’s a fusion of the global sounds that are enthralling the current music scene.
The collaboration in “PBT” is a testament to the globalized nature of the music industry today. While Travis Scott is known for his trap-influenced style, this new track marks his adventurous foray into a unique blend of Afrobeats and dancehall, further showcasing his versatility. At the same time, Vybz Kartel, incarcerated but ever-present in the dancehall scene, breathes his rhythmic charisma into the track, while Tyla adds a fresh, melodic twist.
The video unfolds in a moody, nighttime ambiance, a signature of Scott’s recent works. We witness Scott in a typical high-rise setting, exuding his usual laid-back charm. The video progresses to a buzzing, after-hours party scene where Tyla’s smooth vocals take center stage. Her line “You’ve been outside, so why you on me? / Afterparty ’cause we ain’t concrete / Reminiscing, you thinkin’ ’bout me,” echoes through the dimly lit space, setting a mood of introspection and allure.
The sonic diversity on display in “PBT” reflects the evolution of Scott’s JACKBOYS project, continuing the thematic continuity of its previous releases like “BEEP BEEP” and “DUMBO.” Both tracks feature the dark, atmospheric quality that Scott’s visuals are known for, further cementing his reputation for creating immersive experiences that transcend typical music videos.
While this is the first time Scott and Kartel have appeared together, fans had caught a glimpse of Scott and Tyla’s musical chemistry in the remix of her hit “Water.” This previous collaboration laid a strong foundation for what could be described as a natural and compelling partnership.
JACKBOYS 2 has been a rich pool of collaborations, featuring not only Scott’s compatriots from Cactus Jack Records like Don Toliver and Sheck Wes but also mainstream giants like Future and YoungBoy Never Broke Again. Such eclectic features have ensured that the project appeals across varied musical tastes.
In the larger picture, the success and creativity of JACKBOYS 2 and its contributors symbolize the fluid dynamics of today’s hip hop scene, where genre lines blur and global collaborations thrive. With artists like Scott taking the helm, the infusion of Afrobeats and dancehall into mainstream hip hop isn’t merely a trend but rather a testament to the genre’s adaptability and universal appeal.
Tyla, who has been steadily gaining momentum in 2023, continues to establish herself as a formidable artist. Her release of WWP with tracks like “IS IT” and “BLISS” further amplified her presence. Recently, her social media presence proved just as effervescent as she deftly handled the buzz around her, showing her ability to remain in the conversation both online and through her music.
