If you wear contacts, you may want to take them out before watching PJ Morton’s new video for “First Began” from his 2017 solo debut Gumbo. The super-romantic visual aims to pull at your heartstrings and turn on the waterworks over by the end of its four-minute runtime.
Opening with scenes of well-established actors, including Power star Omari Hardwick, Sterling K. Brown, and Tamera Mowry, discussing their relationships with their respective spouses, the video shifts to a nostalgic-seeming series of shots of two kids — presumably PJ and his own wife in their younger years — sharing snacks and playing on a playground. The little boy plays piano for his companion just to get her to smile, and it’s all very sweet and cozy.
Then, at the end of the video, it’s revealed that the kids are actually PJ’s own children, re-enacting their parents’ early meetings — and cue the eye faucets.
In all seriousness, “First Began” is a prime example of why PJ Morton is nominated for six Grammy Awards (three for Gumbo, and three for his work with Maroon 5 on Overexposed). The Stevie-Wonder-esque vocals and production make it instant wedding reception fodder, with a relatable-yet-aspirational view of lifelong love.
PJ recently stopped by the Uproxx offices in Los Angeles for a live performance and interview; you can check it out here.
