Tim Mcgrady
Music videos often serve as visual postcards, showcasing the world’s most iconic landmarks and hidden gems. While many assume that the majority of these videos are shot in the U.S., numerous international locations have provided the backdrop for some of the most memorable visuals in music history. Here’s a curated list of 15 major music videos filmed outside the United States that you might not know about.
1. “Love Language” – TOMORROW X TOGETHER (Spain)
K-pop sensation TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT) filmed their vibrant music video for “Love Language” in picturesque locations across Spain. The video features serene shorelines, indoor sets, and curated gardens, capturing the summer spirit and creative energy of the group’s latest musical chapter.
2. “Come Into My World” – Kylie Minogue (France)
Directed by Michel Gondry, Kylie Minogue’s 2002 video for “Come Into My World” was filmed on the streets of Paris. The video showcases the intersection of Rue du Point du Jour and Rue de Solférino in Boulogne-Billancourt, where Kylie appears to be caught in a looping reality. AWOL
3. “Read My Mind” – The Killers (Japan)
The Killers’ 2006 video for “Read My Mind” was shot in Tokyo, Japan. The band dons geisha attire, experiences capsule hotels, and explores the neon-lit streets of Shibuya, immersing themselves in quintessentially Japanese experiences. AWOL
4. “Intergalactic” – Beastie Boys (Japan)
The Beastie Boys’ 1998 video for “Intergalactic” features the trio navigating the futuristic surroundings of Tokyo’s Shinjuku Station. The video captures the city’s vibrant energy and technological advancements. AWOL
5. “Losing You” – Solange (South Africa)
Solange’s 2012 video for “Losing You” was filmed in Cape Town, South Africa. The video showcases the township of Langa, featuring Congolese Sapeurs and vibrant pastel colors, highlighting the rich culture and fashion of the area. AWOL+1TripHobo+1
6. “Perfect Places” – Lorde (Jamaica)
Lorde’s 2017 video for “Perfect Places” was shot in Jamaica. The video features the singer exploring the country’s beaches, rainforests, and waterfalls, embodying the song’s themes of youthful escapism. AWOL
7. “Been to the Moon” – Corinne Bailey Rae (Canary Islands, Spain)
Corinne Bailey Rae’s 2022 video for “Been to the Moon” was filmed in the scenic dune landscape of Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands. The video features the singer dressed as an astronaut, adding a surreal touch to the desert backdrop. Telegraph
8. “Hymn for the Weekend” – Coldplay ft. Beyoncé (India)
Coldplay’s 2016 video for “Hymn for the Weekend,” featuring Beyoncé, was filmed in several cities in India, including Varanasi, Kolkata, and Mumbai. The video portrays colorful scenes during the Holi festival, showcasing the vibrant culture and festivities of India. Telegraph
9. “Paradise” – Coldplay (South Africa, UK)
Coldplay’s 2011 video for “Paradise” was shot in London and South Africa. The video follows a man in an elephant suit traveling across South Africa, beginning in Cape Town and moving through various locations, including Johannesburg. Telegraph
10. “Echoes” – The Klaxons (Egypt)
The Klaxons’ 2007 video for “Echoes” was filmed in Egypt’s White Desert. The location presents an otherworldly setting that complements the song’s apocalyptic and sci-fi feel. Step Feed+1AWOL+1
11. “Flash” – Tinie Tempah (United Arab Emirates)
Tinie Tempah’s 2010 video for “Flash” was shot in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The video features landmarks like Meydan Racecourse, Atlantis The Palm, and Burj Al Arab, showcasing the city’s modern architecture and luxury lifestyle. Step Feed
12. “Bad Girls” – M.I.A. (Morocco)
M.I.A.’s 2012 video for “Bad Girls” was filmed in Ouarzazate, Morocco. The video features scenes of women driving cars in defiance of societal norms, set against the backdrop of Morocco’s desert landscapes. Step Feed+1The Times of India+1
13. “Indiana Jones” – The Piano Guys (Jordan)
The Piano Guys’ 2016 video for “Indiana Jones” was filmed in Petra, Jordan. The video showcases the ancient rock-cut architecture and water conduit system of Petra, highlighting its historical significance. Step FeedHave Fun Travel
14. “Do It Again” – The Chemical Brothers (Morocco)
The Chemical Brothers’ 2010 video for “Do It Again” was filmed in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco. The video centers around a little boy and his older brother, set against the stunning desert landscapes of Morocco. Step Feed
15. “She Wolf” – David Guetta ft. Sia (Iceland)
The music video for She Wolf (Falling to Pieces) by David Guetta featuring Sia was filmed in Iceland’s dramatic landscapes. Directed by Hiro Murai, it features Langjökull glacier, Reykjanes peninsula, Krýsuvík, and Reykjanesviti. The video tells a gripping story of a wolf hunt, unfolding through breathtaking chase scenes across Iceland’s haunting natural beauty.
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