by Jane Lambert

Video Voyaguer: 3 Q’s with The IT City

This holiday season, The It City bring a fresh take on festive nostalgia with their heartwarming music video for “Christmas At Home”.

Known for their blend of modern sounds and timeless appeal, the band re-imagines their original orchestral holiday anthem in an intimate, acoustic trio format.

The result is a cozy stripped-down rendition that perfectly captures the warmth, longing and joy that defines the holiday season.

In this exclusive interview, we take a deeper dive into the inspiration behind the song, the creative vision for the music video, and the magic of bringing their holiday vision to life with the help of the talented Sean Power of Music City Content Kings.

Watch here:

1. Tell us the story of this song, why did you choose to visualize this song specifically in
this way?

“Christmas At Home” is a forlorn little love letter to the holidays. We wanted to evoke the warm feelings of nostalgia that sneak in this time of year.

2. What was the inspiration behind this new video (visuals, storyline, etc.)?

We love the old Christmas specials and all of the unique and interesting performances from them. It was also an exciting musical opportunity to reimagine the original arrangement, replete with full orchestration, as a simplified acoustic trio!

3. What was the process of making the video?

The inimitable Sean Power of Music City Content Kings has a cozy studio here in Nashville. He does incredible work and had the cameras all set up and the stockings hung by the sound baffles with care. It’s always a delight to work with him whenever we can!

About The It City

The It City is a dynamic Nashville-based band known for its eclectic fusion of sounds that blend pop, rock, and soul with the timeless spirit of the city’s musical heritage.

Formed by a group of talented musicians including DJ Phillips (guitar, vocals), Derrek Phillips (drums, percussion, backing vocals), Rich Brinsfield (bass, backing vocals), and Reed Pittman (keyboards, vocals) the band has quickly become a standout act in the vibrant Nashville music scene.

With a string of successful releases and collaborations, The It City has received attention both locally and internationally, sharing the stage with music legends such as Elton John, Lana Del Rey, Sting, and Maren Morris.

The band’s sound is characterized by rich harmonies, infectious melodies, and a deep-rooted commitment to musicianship, evident in their diverse musical influences and creative approach to songwriting.

Their holiday single Christmas At Home is the latest in a series of releases that explore their familiar sounds while staying true to the heart of what makes their music so universally appealing.

Connect with The IT City here:

Website / Facebook / Instagram / Spotify / Apple Music / YouTube Music

10.01.24

by Jane Lambert

VIDEO VOYAGEUR: 3 Q’S WITH BUD E. LUV

Behind the Scenes with Bud E. Luv’s Re-imagining of “Music to Watch Girls By”

For over 35 years, Bud E. Luv has been a captivating presence in San Francisco’s music and nightlife scene.

The charismatic alter ego of singer and showman Bobby Vickers, Bud E. Luv is known for blending humor, nostalgia, and sophistication in his performances. And with a career spanning prestigious venues like The Fillmore, Bimbo’s, and Paradise Lounge, and appearances across the U.S., he has become a fixture of timeless entertainment. His versatility allows him to effortlessly explore various musical genres, from jazz to pop, while maintaining an engaging, larger-than-life persona.

Recently, Bud E. Luv has turned his attention to reimagining the 1960s classic “Music to Watch Girls By.”

Known for its catchy melody and lighthearted vibe, the song has been revisited by various artists over the years but Bud’s new rendition brings a fresh and thoughtful perspective. In collaboration with director Tom Donald of hiTrecords, Bud E. Luv has produced a visually stunning black-and-white music video that reflects the complexities of modern society while paying homage to the song’s timeless appeal.

We got the chance to sit down with Bud E. Luv as he shares the story behind his decision to re-imagine the song, the inspirations behind the video, and the thoughtful message he hopes to convey.

1. Tell us the story of this song, why did you choose to visualize this song specifically in this way?

“Music To Watch Girls By” was written some 60 years ago, and today it’s regarded in some circles as inflammatory. We disagree.

To us, it’s a beautifully-written ode to the joys of humanity, in all its forms. Beauty is always in the eye of the beholder.

2. What was the inspiration behind this new video (visuals, storyline, etc.)?

We chose Mr. Tipple’s, perhaps the classiest nightclub in San Francisco, for its noir lighting and background. It’s the kind of place where Bud E. Luv performs, but also where the young woman might venture for a night out.

As we stage the meeting between the two characters, this iconic location was perfect. In like manner, black and white photography seemed the right choice.

3. What was the process of making the video?

Our message is one of inclusion; we want to suggest that all of humanity, regardless of age or gender, is beautiful.

And as such, the simple act of beholding one another is as natural an act as we can undertake.

Speaking about the music video, Bud E. Luv shares, “Our goal was to send a message of inclusion and shared humanity. It’s not about objectifying – it’s about appreciating people for who they are, in all their forms.”

The combination of Luv’s timeless persona with Tom Donald’s thoughtful direction elevates this project into a reflection on human interaction, perception, and the beauty of fleeting moments.

Through thoughtful storytelling and elegant visuals, this new version invites audiences to appreciate the beauty and complexity of human connection. This project shows an enduring creativity and charm and that Bud E. Luv’s legacy will continue to captivate audiences for many years to come.

Find out more about Bud E. Luv on his Website.

Watch the video to “Music To Watch Girls By” on YouTube.

08.12.24

by Jane Lambert

VIDEO VOYAGEUR: 3 Q’s with STEVEN CHESNE

In a world increasingly divided by borders, languages, and ideologies, there comes a powerful musical statement that seeks to remind us of our shared origins and intertwined destinies.

Steven Chesne, the visionary composer behind the genre-defying album “Descendants (in 79 Languages)“, has released a music video that’s as innovative and thought-provoking as the album itself.

This project brings together voices from around the globe, bringing them together into a landscape of sound and imagery that speaks to our shared humanity and interconnected fate. Unfolding over a period of four years, Chesne led the meticulous translation efforts with native speakers brought on board to ensure both accuracy and cultural authenticity in the final work.

In this interview, Steven Chesne takes us behind the scenes of this extraordinary new music video that has been making waves in the world music scene, sharing the inspiration and challenges that came with visualizing a song as unique as “We Are the Descendants.”

From the futuristic setting to the profound messages embedded within, he explores the artistry and vision that make this video a compelling extension of the album’s themes of unity and cultural fusion.

The accompanying music video takes this message to new heights, blending futuristic visuals with a global chorus of voices to create an immersive experience that resonates on a deep, emotional level:

1. Tell us the story of this song, why did you choose to visualize this song specifically in this way?

The whole time I was working on this song, “We are the Descendants”, I knew it had to be listened to in conjunction with a video.

With all of these languages weaving in and out, you really get a whole different dimension if there’s some visual cues about what language you’re hearing.

This is really how that song is meant to be heard!

2. What was the inspiration behind this video (visuals, storyline, etc.)?

I had been thinking about the fragmenting of civilization. And yet, we are all made of the same material. We have a shared origin, and whether we like it or not, our fate is intertwined.

It led me to find a commonality that spans humanity. What can everybody yell out? “We are the descendants.”

We don’t think of this idea too much, but when we hear it, it sounds familiar. And it lifts us up just a tiny bit. It moves the waves just slightly in that direction.

3. Can you describe the video and the concept behind it?

Most of the action in part one takes place on Earth in the future, after the Earth becomes trashed and uninhabitable. So Fredo Bang is walking inside a very large “earth station” that is very clean and antiseptic, and separate from the barren desert outside.

On the walls of this structure are video monitors with faces of all of the vocalist from all over the world. Each one of them sings their phrase as they weave together, between Fredo Bang’s rapping.

There’s a young boy on the Earth station, who is experimenting with a giant laser that eventually pierces the wall of the structure. This takes us to part two of the video which uses music from the big Finale at the end of the album. There is also some new music scored for the video, to connect the two songs.

The key concept behind the dramatic ending is that all of us are going to have to struggle together if we’re to survive together. Our fate is intertwined.

The music that accompanies the big ending dramatic part, the Finale of the album, involves all of the languages singing simultaneously. This sounds a bit like a gigantic nebula sort of choir. This sound is eventually overtaken by a symphony orchestra. The choir and the orchestra struggle together, and it’s a really unique, fascinating sound. It’s an extremely full, very complex texture.

Keep up to date with Steven Chesne at www.chezworks.com

07.11.24

by Jane Lambert

VIDEO VOYAGEUR: 3 Q’S WITH GEORGE COLLINS

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George Collins is a multi-faceted artist whose music, writing, and creative endeavours reflect a life rich with experience and inspiration.

Hailing from Washington D.C., and now based in Prague, Collins has embarked on a musical journey that transcends traditional boundaries as he blends classic rock influences with contemporary themes.

Collins recently released his latest single, “Saving the Best for Last,” a standout track from the eagerly anticipated EP, “Songs for Grown-ups” set to be released this summer. This song serves as a powerful, upbeat anthem about the beauty and potential of aging inspired by musical legends such as George Harrison, Bruce Springsteen, Van Morrison, and Neil Diamond. Wrapping up the EP’s themes, it reflects on the passage of time and the wisdom gained through life’s experiences.

In this interview, Collins delves into the story behind “Saving the Best for Last.” He believes in the possibility of achieving one’s best work at any age, a sentiment that is passionately conveyed through his music.

We also explore the creative process behind the song’s captivating video, crafted by the talented Marta Vorontsova. Utilizing stock footage, AI images, and animation, the video beautifully illustrates the song’s themes and Collins’ vision. From conceptual discussions to iterative feedback, Collins describes how this collaboration brought his ideas to life in a visually stunning manner.

The official lyric video for “Saving the Best for Last” by George Collins is now available on YouTube here:

1. Tell us the story of this song, why did you choose to visualize this song specifically in this way?

This was the last tune written for my second EP, “Songs for Grown-ups,” and I knew I wanted to end this collection with a positive, upbeat, exuberant anthem about getting better with age.

For this song I was inspired by the work of George Harrison, Bruce Springsteen, Van Morrison and Neil Diamond.

The song summarizes the themes explored in the previous tracks of the EP and reaches the hopeful conclusion that, as I continue getting older and enter a new phase of existence, I can bring all the lessons I’ve learned to bear to create a fulfilling and joyful later stage of life.

I have always believed that, no matter my age, my best days and best work lie ahead of me – and this song attempts to express that belief.

I have also been inspired by iconic artists who did some of their greatest work in their later years such as Bach, Beethoven, Yeats, Eliot, Monet, Matisse and Picasso – masters who can serve as models for us all by fusing youthful energy and passion with the wisdom and perspective of age.

Plus, the track absolutely rocks and is loaded with hooks, including a 1970s-style modulation to emphasize the “surprise” in the lyrics – one doesn’t hear many such modulations these days!

2. What was the inspiration behind this video (visuals, storyline, etc.)?

There were several key images I knew I wanted to focus on in the video to illustrate the themes of the song: confusing maps and road signs (“Figure out the way that I should go”), climbing mountains and overcoming other difficulties (“But I never lost faith in me and all that I could be”), couples working their way through difficulties (“It’s taken us a while to learn to smile”), older men finishing a race and winning trophies (“Here I am, better than ever”), older couples deeply in love and enjoying their Golden Years (“We’re gonna have fun in the days to come”), just to name a few.

3. What was the process of making this video?

I worked with an extremely talented artist named Marta Vorontsova (Instagram: @_imagikali_), who is specialized in creating music videos using stock footage, AI images, and animation techniques. She has produced many videos for me, which are all available on my YouTube channel (@GeorgeCollinsBand), and each one is unique. We had long discussions about the song and my wishes for the video, then she vastly improved on my original ideas with her brilliant, skillful and imaginative visual presentation. It was an iterative process: She would send me a draft, I would send her my comments, then back and forth until we got it just right and we were both happy with the results. “Saving the Best for Last” is an extremely important song for me, and I love how the video captures and beautifully expresses the deeply personal yet universal themes of this exuberant, inspiring song.

Connect with George Collins here:

Website / Facebook / Instagram / Spotify / Soundcloud / Apple Music / YouTube

01.13.24

by Jane Lambert

Video Voyageur: 3Q’s with Connie Lansberg

Connie Lansberg has created a world where jazz meets storytelling, and energy healing finds its voice through music. She’s the creator of Transformational Entertainment™, a genre that’s as intriguing as it sounds.

An accomplished jazz artist, songwriter, and author, Connie’s work is a harmonious blend of wellness and artistry, wrapped up in songs that resonate on multiple levels. And she is one of the most streamed Jazz artists in her home country – Australia.

With a career that spans multiple albums and even a novel, Connie has become a fixture in the Australian jazz scene. Known for her poetic lyrics and elegantly expressive melodies, Connie Lansberg has a knack for capturing the complexities of human emotion in 4-minute musical soliloquies. Today, we delve into the creative process and inspiration behind her latest video, exploring how it adds yet another layer to her already rich tapestry of work.

1. Tell us the story of “Deep End of Love”; why did you choose to visualize it specifically in this way?

“Deep End of Love” with all its gravitas in the music is a little tongue-in-cheek look at the games we play in the name of love and how refreshing it would be to just take the leap without our baggage, our wounds, and our pain. I have a live video of this song, but it seemed too safe. My music is not safe because it isn’t because it is always its own thing and not readily easy to place in a genre. So I searched and found a great lyric video creator and sent him as many images as I could because, at that time, I didn’t know he could draw and I wanted to suggest a certain darkness.

2. What was the inspiration behind this video (visuals, storyline, etc.)?

The song asks the question, do you think it’s possible to give your heart to another fully without fear? So the heroine had to represent the question. I wanted to see her grapple with it and then triumph.

3. What was the process of making this video? (and anything else you want to tell us?)

When I choose another creator to work with I always let them show me what they’ve got first, without too much direction after the initial brief. However, when I realised, most jazz-based songs don’t have lyric videos because of all the improv, and “Deep End of Love” has two improv sections, middle and end of the song, I knew I had to jump in a little more than normal. I pushed this guy to his limit! We crafted the two improv sections and I asked him to draw and then animate this woman and I was thrilled with the results. She has such a strong nobble face, not like the prettiness you see in Western world women. I do have a confession in that I did recut the video to get that impact at the end, but I think I got the very best out of this guy. He’s done a few more for me that are really good too. I love the freedom of lyric videos as well as the fact that for me, the lyrics are so important. Lyrics are my true gift and so many people pay no attention to them. For me, if you don’t listen to my lyrics, you’re missing the point.

Whether she’s penning a novel or crafting a jazz tune, Connie’s belief that we create our own reality shines through. Her songs are not just melodic expressions but also vehicles for energy healing and wellness. As we await her next project, one thing is certain: Connie will continue to challenge, inspire, and transform us, one note and one word at a time.

WATCH “Deep End of Love” here –

Stay current with Connie on her Website and social media channels Facebook and Instagram.

Stream music on Spotify and YouTube.

08.17.23

by Jane Lambert

Video Voyager: Deirdre Murphy’s “Sweet and Strong”

Singer/songwriter Deirdre Murphy is the creator of many original works of music, dance, theatre, circus, and performance art. It’s evident in the music video for her neo-folk song “Sweet and Strong.”

The video is a depiction of a beautiful, light hearted, and sweet celebration of life and friendship. It’s a pure showing of loving life through dance and movement. There has never been a more lively, happy, or delightful music video. It’s freeing to watch these friends interact with each other in such a loving and open way.

We got a chance to speak with Deirdre about the music video and her intentions behind hit:

Tell us the story of this song, why did you choose to visualize this song specifically in this way?

This song has always called for a really physical video, in my mind. My friends and co-performers, Sean and Zsofia, are my training partners and former students. Zsofia asked me one day if her sister could come to class – she said, “She’s only 16 but she is sweet and she is strong.” And I went home and wrote the song. So it has that neat little tie-in, but also the song is about feeling really secure, really good, in your body and your surroundings which I wanted to get across in the video. My relationship with them routinely involves handstand training, acroyoga, many jokes, and bodywork/massage. I love the physicality of the practices themselves – the movement just feels good and practicing together is always great fun. I knew if I could get those elements captured, they would speak for themselves and they would speak visually for the song.

What was the inspiration behind this video (visuals, storyline, etc.)?

Last summer I took up a new hobby with a friend, of rose smelling. We centered our efforts in the rose garden nearest my friend’s house – the one in the video.

A little known fact that is after about 30 or 40 minutes of smelling the roses, you are absolutely drunk on them. Heady. Our extensive research found that not only does it make you drunk, but also that about one in every ten roses smells exquisite (while some barely have any scent at all!). We further noted that about one in every twenty is magical beyond explanation – transcendent. These are the ones that cause a person to stagger. I remember one particular rose that we couldn’t stop smelling for a full 15-20 minutes, knowing that when we left it we would most probably never find it again. As we spent more time there it occurred to me that it’d be the perfect place to shoot a video for this particular song – it’s very much about stopping to smell the roses and appreciating the little moments.

I would fully recommend rose smelling as a hobby, by the way. It’s free, it makes you drunk, and there’s no learning curve – you walk in at the top of your game!

What was the process of making this video?

The process was just as fun as it looks! We were lucky to work with the wonderful Hannah Bloom, who has a real eye for movement and did a beautiful job with the edit. She used a vintage lens – which I think really adds to the feel – sort of old timey, and highly textured what with all the leaves and vines. I was able to work closely with Hannah on the edit and it was really lovely – she was a pleasure to work with. Sean and Zsofia were in fine form and a lot of craic was had, as is always the case with those two.

Connect with Deirdre Murphy via:
Website / Instagram / Facebook / Twitter / YouTube / Spotify / Apple Music