"Happy" video shoot
November 20, 2009
A giant roll of scrolling paper, paint, pastels, markers, feathers, a live single frame continuous shot, amazing food and a final frenzied attack on me. Not bad for a day's work.
Thus was the video shoot for "Happy" that happen yesterday in our apartment in Berlin.
Director Graeme Pearce dreamed up this mad idea and with a quickly assembled group of friends and artists it all came together.
We started off with über delicious food prepared by Kusi. Then with a quick chat and a bit a preparation by Graeme, we were off.
The idea was to play the song and draw, paint or write whatever you feel from the music and the lyrics. Most of the people involved had never heard the song before so it was a fresh experience for them.
Our friends Roula and Julie scrolled the paper while I wrote lyrics and Graeme, Kusi and Gordon Raphael provided their artistic magic. Our friend and Julie's partner Nijin was kind enough to look after the two children.
We did 4 live takes and it was done. Except that Graeme asked me at the last minute would I lie on the floor and let him, Kusi, Roula and Julie cover me with paint and feathers, while I sang along with the song. It was art, he told me.
So, with only one take possible they had their fun and I did too, I must admit. Except for the feather that went down my throat while I was singing a long note.
It was an extremely fun, supportive, easy and laid back experience. I really enjoyed being surrounded by friends and having everyone join in.
A mighty thanks to everyone involved!!! I couldn't have asked for a better experience to kick off the first of a number of videos for my new album.
Beware, crazy chicken man!
