Those who are knowledgeable understand why and know that Montreal is gaining a reputation as the best place to make a contemporary music video. If you are a producer looking for a place to shoot your latest video; or you’re simply in the industry and need to find a top spot for your clients, then look no further because Montreal has hit the big time. This article looks at this trend in more detail, providing some history and discussing those who have already use this location, and why.
Which top international acts have shot their music videos in Montreal?
The city has pedigree—some of the biggest stars in the music industry have produced their work with this wonderful city forming the backdrop for their music. Those mentioned below are just sneak peek at the history of Montreal as a music video and overall production hot spot. And whether it’s through online games being played at JackpotCity casino, or local YouTube clips and other international entertainment, you’re likely to have listened to (or watched) music made in Montreal.
Bryan Adams: Yes, he’s local, but the fact that he has such an international following and shot to fame with some great music videos shot in Montreal set the original tone for the industry in the city.
Adele: In 2015 Adele shot “Hello” which, as is her way, became a No. 1 hit. Unsurprisingly, she has now done the same with her new single, “Easy On Me.” She used the Eastern Townships of Quebec, but the grapevine is clear as to the fact that she did, however, bring the crew from Montreal — led by local actor/director Xavier Dolan, who also produced Adele’s previous smash hits.
Drake: Another local who has made it big, Drake has shown commitment to the local music industry by using his reputation to solidify his support for Montreal and the music video business. He could have filmed his music videos anywhere and yet has chosen to come back home to shoot videos that have then gone on to world acclaim.
Rihanna: Rihanna has also produced a music video in the city and in this instance, it was more the skillset of the producers and crew that she insisted on rather than the backdrop or cityscapes, as the video itself was simply shot indoors—in club scenes.
These are just some of the top acts that have chosen Montreal as the venue for their music videos.
Why Montreal?
The city has some of the most talented crews in the world. Furthermore, there are favorable exchange rates associated with such costly work. These are great drawcards for international artists to use the backdrop, scenery, and hustle and bustle of Montreal to make magical music videos.
It is accepted that Montreal, and in fact Canada as a whole, is beginning to offer an alternative to the big-budget Hollywood—or glaringly American—movie, film, and music video industry. This article has attempted to show that this is not a flash in the pan and has been ongoing for a considerable time. It is, however, beginning to make more than just waves, and those in the industry now expect there to be some serious accolades for the Montreal music video industry and we anxiously wait to see who wins what at the next Grammy Awards.
