Introduction
Talking Heads is an American rock band formed in New York City in 1975. The band consisted of David Byrne (vocals, guitar), Chris Frantz (drums), Tina Weymouth (bass), and Jerry Harrison (keyboards, guitar). Their music was a mix of punk, funk, and art rock, and they became one of the most critically acclaimed and influential bands of the 1980s.
One of their most popular songs is “Take Me To The River”, which was originally written and recorded by Al Green in 1974. Talking Heads covered the song in 1978, and it became a hit for them. In this article, we will be discussing the official music video for “Take Me To The River” by Talking Heads.
The Video
The music video for “Take Me To The River” was directed by David Byrne and Toni Basil. It features the band performing the song in a studio, with various visual effects and overlays used throughout the video. The video was shot in black and white, which gives it a timeless and classic feel.
The band members are shown playing their instruments and singing, with David Byrne’s distinctive vocals taking center stage. The camera angles and editing create a sense of movement and energy, which complements the upbeat and funky rhythm of the song.
The Visuals
The visuals in the video are a mix of live action and animation. There are several shots of water and waves, which tie in with the song’s title and lyrics. The water imagery is used to create a sense of flow and movement, which matches the song’s rhythm and melody.
In addition to the water imagery, there are also several shots of the band members’ faces and hands. These close-up shots emphasize the musicianship and skill of the band, and also create a sense of intimacy and connection with the viewer.
The Impact
The music video for “Take Me To The River” had a significant impact on popular culture and music videos in general. It was one of the first music videos to feature a mix of live action and animation, which became a popular style in the 1980s.
The video’s use of water imagery and close-up shots of the band members also became a popular technique in music videos. The visuals in the video helped to enhance the song’s message and create a memorable and iconic music video.
The Legacy
The legacy of “Take Me To The River” and its music video can be seen in the influence it had on future generations of musicians and music video directors. The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Al Green himself, and has become a classic in its own right.
The music video for “Take Me To The River” continues to be a popular and influential music video, and has been featured on numerous “best of” lists over the years. It remains a testament to the creativity and innovation of Talking Heads and their impact on popular culture.
Conclusion
The official music video for “Take Me To The River” by Talking Heads is a classic example of a music video that enhances the message and impact of a song. The visuals in the video, including the water imagery and close-up shots of the band members, help to create a memorable and iconic music video that continues to influence and inspire musicians and music video directors today.
