Toronto representative k-os has been a mainstay of the Canadian rap scene, first breaking out in the early aughts. His debut project arrived back in 2002, and he's been quietly building a dedicated fan base ever since thanks to his distinctive approach. Just recently, k-os returned with his catchy new single "No Bucks," and today Complex is premiering the video for the track, which sees k-os exploring nature before taking to the city he calls home.
Directed by Dan Lemoyne—who has worked with the Weeknd, among other artists—the video for "No Bucks" challenges the idea of identities in rap. "There's this common idea that to be a rapper you have to be from the city, and that to be perceived as 'hard' you need to create some kind of street identity," k-os told Complex. "However, it may take a harder nerve and resolve to spend a few nights in nature under the stars alone."
As such, the video fully dives into the theme of taking the road less traveled. "This music video investigates the idea that to get to know your city streets better you might have to leave them behind," he added. "I never really focused too much on what everyone in my city was doing. Not because I didn't enjoy their work, but because a lot of us Canadians are trained to imitate American sensibilities. I was never good at that."
Blending disparate sounds into a cohesive performance, k-os brings that creativity and exploration of ideas to life. "The concept of trying to be an original artist that doesn't chase cash is obviously not something I invented. I just spend a lot of time in nature, and as far as the eye can see... money doesn't grow on trees."
Check out the video for "No Bucks" up top.
