The Story Behind the Iconic "Bitter Sweet Symphony" Music Video
A Tale of Unintended Brilliance and Legal Battles
Introduction
The Verve's "Bitter Sweet Symphony" music video is an iconic moment in British music history. The video, which features lead singer Richard Ashcroft being beaten up on the street by some thugs, is as memorable as the song itself.
The Original Idea
The original concept for the music video was much more straightforward. Ashcroft was supposed to simply walk down the street, singing the lyrics. However, on the day of the shoot, Ashcroft decided to go off-script and start knocking over random people on the street.
The Director's Decision
The director, Walter Stern, loved Ashcroft's impromptu performance so much that he decided to leave it in. The result is a video that is both unsettling and unforgettable.
The Legal Battles
Unfortunately, the video also led to a series of legal battles. The Rolling Stones sued the Verve, claiming that the song infringed on their copyright. The Verve eventually settled out of court, giving the Rolling Stones songwriting credits and royalties.
The Legacy
Despite the legal battles, "Bitter Sweet Symphony" remains one of the most iconic music videos of all time. The video's unique style and Ashcroft's intense performance have made it a lasting piece of British pop culture.
Comments