Kris Allen “Live Like We’re Dying” Music Video Premier!

Hate the song… like Kris and the video

Nice close up above. The video was nice. Sounds good, Kris looks good, I like that they show him playing guitar and piano.

Absolutely love it. I love how you see the lights, and halfway through the video you see it’s time ticking away. Love that Kris plays both the guitar and the piano. ( That piano is amazing by the way.)

Kris put so much emotion into his performance.LOVE. LOVE. LOVE.

The sunrise was pretty!

The concept is very reminiscent of the “4 minutes to save the world” clip, it makes me smile that they switch him between the mic stand, guitar and piano.
Hopefully the clip will help sell the music

Great video!! Very pleased. I like the set and Kris looks good singing. The appearance of the piano kinda surprised me, but it works since it’s part of his skill set. I liked that it ends with a sunrise, too. Good job, Marco and Kris!!

Love the video. Kris really did a great job!!!

Liked the video very much. Kris looks great, too. Nice to see him playing the piano and the guitar

Hm… it’s well shot and Kris looks great… but kinda, lonely? It’s basically JUST him singing the song, playing guitar and piano, and walking around with a sparkler. So… that’s related to living like we’re dying how…? And it just felt a little concept-less– no attempt to insert any imagery that related to the lyrics at all. I still like the song a lot though, so that’s good, right?

WHAT WAS THAT?????? Kris needs an apocalypse video, too? Flaming torch homage?

Isn’t LLWD supposed to be inspiring? Shouldn’t the emphasis be on the Living not the dying? Scenes about what to be doing, not the abyss you may meet.

Kris is adorable, sexy, sly, charming. Use it, Jive, use it.

And the singing at the microphone stand? Can’t get good close-ups that way.

The giant digital clock reminded me of Hollywood Squares. Heehee. Kris looks great, head-boppin’ and all.

Kris looks adorable. I liked the video in the beginning but the rapid change of scenes became too distracting.

Actually I like LLWD more and more, and of course LOVE Kris.
He looks good as always. Sometimes the video looks a little off just because the song is so fast and has so many layers ( have to see it again).

Somebody tell me what the end means. Two cars ??, sunrise ??

Kris looks great… what a cute little guy he is . I kept wondering if the blow-y white stuff that was hanging from the… building?… was going to blow onto his head. Isn’t that an odd thing to think about? Love the song, though, and cool to have him playing guitar/piano.

LOVE IT!

Why is Kris so angry at the mike stand at the end?

I like it! I love that it really puts Kris in front and gives him plenty of face time. Video will get lots of play!

I found it interesting that the promo after the video mentioned “Written All Over Your Face” and “The Truth”. Possible second singles? Written All Over Your Face has a very good chance at being the second single, IMO.

Are those handcuffs they show hanging in the truck? Symbolic of being tied down to time? Or a shout out to Adam’s FYE? (Just kidding!!!)

Love the song, love the video. The only critique I would give it is that it would have given it alot more oomph if he had a band playing in there instead of him going from piano to guitar.

Long time lurker here…… LOVE IT!!!!! Yay for Kris! =)

Can’t edit– so I get the imagery is time ticking away, but, but I still feel like they could’ve done more with the concept to tie it to the lyrics. Just IMO. But like I said, still like the song, and the video looks great.

I kept wondering if the blow-y white stuff that was hanging from the’ ¦ building?’ ¦

What is that scraggly stuff supposed to be? Weird.

I did like the digital numbers though. Pretty cool.

He is so beautiful. I just wish they could have put a little more effort into this. Cook’s was the same way. 19 isn’t going to fork out the big bucks till they see how popular he’ll become.

Really well done! Loved the look of it, the lighting, Kris jamming on the guitar/piano, the road flare (I don’t know why, I thought it looked really cool) and *damn* does the camera looooove Kris. He looked fantastic. Wow!

Love it! New itunes consumer … are there 2 types of media to purchase? If I wanted to buy the music video version, is that part of the pre-order or is it different? Is it singles, album and then music video options?

It’s basically JUST him singing the song, playing guitar and piano, and walking around with a sparkler. So’ ¦ that’s related to living like we’re dying how’ ¦? And it just felt a little concept-less’“ no attempt to insert any imagery that related to the lyrics at all.

Thank you! I was struggling to put into words what you just said. Other than the giant clock, sort of concept-less.

Nevertheless, I still love the song. Kris looks great in the video and I do really like the images of him playing the guitar. And the giant digital clock was cool too.

nice and very simple, no extras just him in the whole video.

I wouldn’t agree that it’s conceptless since he’s standing inside a giant clock ticking down.

Vid looks good! Very smart to just have Kris in the whole thing – he is very heavily featured with no extras. For branding, this makes sense to help build face and name recognition among new fans. The desert/clock theme works really well for the song. Not much else going on, but, due to the heavy Kris focus, I think that makes sense.

Are those handcuffs they show hanging in the truck? Symbolic of being tied down to time? Or a shout out to Adam’s FYE? (Just kidding!!!)

heeee.

Beyond effin’ thrilled. It’s brilliant and gorgeous and sexy. I love the concept, very, very cool. Kris looks hot — rock star. He moves great, it shows he’s a true musician. It’s artsy and moody. I can’t say enough about it. I love the song as well. This video is so cool. Serious business here. This is going to give him serious music cred. I’m never OTT, but this is just spot-on perfect.

walking around with a sparkler. So’ ¦ that’s related to living like we’re dying how’ ¦?

Walking around in the dark with a flame could be seen as trying to find your way in the world is like trying to find your way in the dark.

I do not like this video AT ALL. Of course Kris looks hot (no pun intended.). But I have no clue what is going on, aside from Kris wandering around this structure with sheets blowing around. (And yes, I see the clock). Not working for me.

lol halfie

This is not an upbeat video, which I thought it was supposed to be to go along with the song. For me, it’s the apocalypse. At least Adam looks fierce during TfM. For me for you for me, Kris looks forlorn. Oh, well.

I liked the first part of the video when he was driving up and his name was in lights. But, then, I kept waiting for something “lively” to happen to go with the bright side of LLWD. Instead, it got lonely and desolate. Liked the sunrise at the end.

Love it! Esp. the scenes at the piano and the sunrise. Kris looks gorgeous in many scenes and his passion during his singing shines through.

TBH I was grateful they weren’t heavy-handed with the lyrics. Showing a plane, blah, blah, blah. That would just seem trite as far as I was concerned and cheesy. This is just plain cool and gorgeous.

Kris is cute here

Okay, can I just add that the close up of him paused from the video feed is enough to make any woman drool?!!!!

TBH I was grateful they weren’t heavy-handed with the lyrics. Showing a plane, blah, blah, blah. That would just seem trite as far as I was concerned and cheesy. This is just plain cool and gorgeous.

I agree – glad they didn’t try to put in images for all the lyrics – that would have looked very cheesy. What they did is a lot more “artistic” – though I probably could have used just a tad more storyline (just a tad).

Isn’t LLWD supposed to be inspiring? Shouldn’t the emphasis be on the Living not the dying? Scenes about what to be doing, not the abyss you may meet.

Yes to this. Why not pictures of people on a picnic, running through meadows, laughing, at the beach…

Love Kris and really liked the video. I am so glad that they showed him on the piano. But I wish that they would have focused more on his looks. Maybe too fast paced to focus on BB Kris face. Hope next video is a slow song so we can focus on sexy face.

Kris Allen is a talented, adorable man. And spectacular performer.

But that video was, literally, a disaster.

Conceptually, strategically, artistically a complete, unmitigated, WTF?

They actually had a meeting where they said, I know, let’s put a song about seizing the wonderful opportunities of life in a bombed out, flaming building, and everyone said, yes??

YMMV, but nothing made sense about that. It felt like an SNL skit.
- Hey vampires are hot now, let’s have ghostly shroudy things blowing
- But the song’s about optimism and living fully.
- Yeah, but have you seen the Twilight numbers? Let’s make sure it’s all dark and it ends at dawn.

Are those handcuffs they show hanging in the truck?

My instant thought, too, sunny2.

This is not an upbeat video, which I thought it was supposed to be to go along with the song. For me, it’s the apocalypse.

I felt the same way. Kris looked good but I was expecting something different I guess-like maybe showing scenes of living and having fun-out by the lake, waterskiing, joking around with the gang, etc. Just something more upbeat and fun.

Pretty boring…

Why is Kris so angry at the mike stand at the end?

Hmm, it didn’t melt?

First take: Much of the imagery is interesting, but I agree it’s too apocalyptic for the song’s message. Acetylene torch? WTF?

Mic was obtrusive the whole time. I glanced away during the car shot at the beginning and for a split second thought he was singing with the mic in the car!! They should have lost the mic altogether, it is pulling focus from him.

Kris is cute and his energy when playing is infectious.

And yes, @buderschnookie, the sunrise is pretty. (LOL)

They should have put him on that piano platform in the middle of a park, or beach or somewhere where people are having good times with their family and friends. Lots of shots of people laughing and celebrating.

Anyone know when this will be available on iTunes?

Okay, can I just add that the close up of him paused from the video feed is enough to make any woman drool?!!!!

Not any… he looks like a little brother to me.

The clip is beautiful to watch, very nice aesthetics, but i didnt understand the concept, if there was one other than show that he is cute, plays piano and guitar. And likes flairs.

I liked it and I’m not even the biggest Kris stan! I thought for his first video, the lip synching was good and that’s the hard part. I liked the big clock, that was cool.

So generic.

Looks kind of funny the way Kris “rocking” with the music.

Well I liked the video… lol

I feel like the pick up truck was stuck in there to appeal to the country music fans.

I don’t know about this one. I like the song well enough, but that video felt far from exhortative. It was more like some kind of post-apocalyptic, depressing nightmare he was trapped in.

And I hate that he never comes in contact with another single human being. Maybe that was part of the “concept,” but it felt strangely detached, and like they were too cheap to spring for a few actors for him to at least flashback/forward to.

I like the video visually if I block out what the song is about because the lyrics combined with the video itself make zero sense. I like the lighting though and Kris looks good.

Cook’s was the same way. 19 isn’t going to fork out the big bucks till they see how popular he’ll become.

The Light On video had an A-list director which makes the stupidity of the video even worst I suppose. I guess even the best directors can deliver stupid concepts LOL

“I liked it and I’m not even the biggest Kris stan! I thought for his first video, the lip synching was good and that’s the hard part. I liked the big clock, that was cool.”

I like the big clock too.

My take….Kris looks fantastic and the video is great and the song is good…individually all good things ..the problem is as a concept the video has nothing to do with the the song. Love that they show that Kris plays guitar and piano but don’t think this song in the context of a video was the place to show it. I think it also would have been better if his band was with him.
I love Kris though and do think the video will help promote the song

I like that they show him playing guitar and piano.

Yes, but, correct me if I’m wrong, Kris doesn’t actually play guitar and piano on LLWD, does he? A bit deceptive, no?

There’s been such a long time lapse — a month and a half — between the single dropping and this video. It just feels like old news at this point. I want a new song!

Forgot to mention that I LOVE the very first scene and all his clothings too!

that’s a cool video. I like the little story behind it. The cinematography is very well done. I like best the scenes where he plays guitar. The piano idea is a little weird for this song but it adds some fantasy to it.
Kris is gorgeous as always and i like he was all dressed in black, that suits him a lot.
Knowing it was shot at night, I was kind of expecting something like that.
This said, I agree with some on the board who were expecting something more along the them of the song.
But nevertheless i find it cool

Ever since we found out the director was going to be Marco Puig I knew the concept was going to be a little out there. But it’s very cool looking, and Kris looks great! Liked piano a lot.

Love the beginning in the car when Kris Allen came up. You don’t know how amazing that was for me.

I was worried that they would kind of just throw something out there, but it actually looks like they shelled out some money for this. I need screenshots…or at least I need to be able to get this video on my ipod now!

I personally LOVE it. The imagery, the concept of time (FYI, that’s a wristwatch hanging off the rear-view mirror), Kris’ gorgeous face. My one teensy little quibble is that I wish we’d gotten one last face shot at the end as he looks at the sunrise…that orange light at dawn makes ANYBODY look good. We got a tease in the middle when he leans on the car and looks out at what I presume is west…I expected sunrise/face shot! That being said, for me (for you), sunrise=hope, so not too apocalyptic to me.

And for those looking for more explicit imagery or a “storyline,” not all videos need that. To quote Adam, “it ain’t that deep, people.” That was the thing I DIDN’T like about David Cook’s “Light On” video was that silly plotline. Less teen drama, more pretty, please!

WOW much better than I expected! Definitely one of the better music videos for idol debuts. Still lovin this song, can’t wait for the full album!!

Love it. It’s all about Kris – him playing piano and guitar. Great job, Marco Puig.

I liked how it was sort of moody and atmospheric in contrast to the upbeat nature of the song. It works for me. The song really isn’t long enough to have a video with a storyline. Besides, who needs a storyline when you have a mug like that?

I think there is a lot of symbolism here and we are supposed to find it!

Yes, but, correct me if I’m wrong, Kris doesn’t actually play guitar and piano on LLWD, does he? A bit deceptive, no?

LOL – just a bit, but what else was he to do *shrugs*

I like the big clock too.

What!!!….oh clock….Never mind…..

According to Kris, this was the concept:
“The idea behind it is that I plug in the clock and I’m pulling the big cord through the junkyard and through all these other things and then I plug in the clock and it starts counting down to zero and there’s performance stuff in there.”

Kinda more disneyesque? HA HA! I think the whole thing is brilliant and I was worried it was going to be too light, too Disney.

“The video is really cool … It looks great. The idea behind it is that I plug in the clock and I’m pulling the big cord through the junkyard and through all these other things and then I plug in the clock and it starts counting down to zero…” –Kris Allen

I think it looks great as well, conceptually really cool. The sunrise is perfect. The younger music buyers will definitely get it. I love the Muse video as well, but the Teddy Bears freak me out a little.

Visually this video is brilliant. I’m so happy it turned out this COOL. A+++++

OK, so THIS is the type of country song Danny should have recorded! What’s that you say? It’s not country? Umm… oh.

It was all right – it was visually interesting enough – showed the instruments not played on the actual recording, but OK. I kept waiting for the giant clock he promised, though – is that what the Hollywood Squares were supposed to be? Not getting that, but had there been no mention of a clock, I would have better appreciated what WAS there. I wish I knew what junk yard that was so I can go there and shoot some photos of the old cars and stuff, but… oh, so back to Kris. Yeah, he looked good, song was fine, video, fine. Should do it’s job just… fine.

The best part of the video was the end. No really, it was. It actually had something to do with the song, had some emotional connotations and it was very pretty.

The big clock, with the blowing white drapes/plastic(?) was cliche and cheesy. I mean I got that it was a clock and there was a reason why there were the lights changing, but the squares where Kris is inexpliacably singing into a microphone or in front of also inexplicably playing a piano, were just lames.

Boring video of guy singing, and Kris looked mostly awkward when inexpliacably singing in the giant Hollywood Squares clock with the billowing plastic drapes of music video cliche.

But the good news for me was that Kris did look cute throughout the video and he came alive when rocking out at about 2:45 in the video with his guitar. Though that stopped when back on the inexpliable microphone and then throwing it down! to do the good, last, shot of him at the sunrise.

Did I mention Kris looked cute in this? Because he did.

.

Kris looked good but I was expecting something different I guess-like maybe showing scenes of living and having fun-out by the lake, waterskiing, joking around with the gang, etc. Just something more upbeat and fun.

Okay, first of all, he said more than once that it was being filmed all night long, in the desert, and the set was “a junkyard.” With a clock theme. So if you were expecting water skis and the gang, I guess you didn’t get the memo.

Live Like We’re Dying is not about having fun by the way, it’s about making sure that we appreciate people and things in our life before it’s too late. It’s a fairly serious theme, and the idea of waterskiing, well, just…I don’t think so. No offense.

And…a video doesn’t have to be literally a depiction of the theme of a song, like paint by the numbers. Videos are creative and this is both creative and sophisticated. It showcases the song and Kris beautifully.
Just my opinion.

Overall the video is a little light, but Kris does a good job with what they gave him. And there are some pretty cool scenes…love him at the piano. Loved the big clock ticking. David Cook’s storyline didn’t even go with Light On last year, but it was still cool seeing David singing with his band. Wish they had shown Kris’s band. All in all, me likey. Going back to watch again….

it’s too apocalyptic for the song’s message. Acetylene torch? WTF?

Mic was obtrusive the whole time. I glanced away during the car shot at the beginning and for a split second thought he was singing with the mic in the car!! They should have lost the mic altogether, it is pulling focus from him.

Absolutely, SusanM

I like the video visually if I block out what the song is about because the lyrics combined with the video itself make zero sense.

But removing the song to have it make sense is not a good marketing strategy for a music video. Which is supposed to be advertising. Expand the core concept, increase the impact. Make people feel the same thrilling love of life Kris feels. Here he’s Raiders of the Lost Ark torching into a modern bombed out building tomb.

As dhunken said:

the problem is as a concept the video has nothing to do with the the song.

According to Kris, this was the concept:
‘The idea behind it is that I plug in the clock and I’m pulling the big cord through the junkyard and through all these other things and then I plug in the clock and it starts counting down to zero and there’s performance stuff in there.’ 

What?

I like it. I think the digital clock effect with the lights is neat.

It’s a good introduction focusing on the artist. It kind of reminds me of that early Daughtry video in the ruined house, though. LOL.

It would be hard to have a story for that without it being a total cheese-fest. I’m glad they didn’t go literal.

I don’t think Kris could win with this. He went for the artsy feel (ie apocalyptic look). If he would of went the inspiring route people would of called it cheesy. Personally I thought it struck a nice balance, with the clock ticking down and the inspriation at the end, stopping to watch the sunrise.

The flowing sheets remined of the Total Eclipes of the Heart video.

Well, I like abstract…but I didn’t get it.

He does look awfully cute in it – I can appreciate that even if he isn’t my type – but beyond that, I don’t see the conceptual significance of anything but the digital clock. Some of the frames are beautifully lit and the sky is a striking hue of deep blue. While a literal interpretation isn’t very creative, I would have liked a concept that ties into the song a little more.

That was one, HUGE piano. It looked out of place in this video.

cookbunny Yeah id agree with you. I like the whole time concept for it.
and like adam says, it aint that deep.

I mean look at the vid for Boston by augustana.. theres an underlying concept with it, but its basically them on a beach in the surf with the waves.. I dont think they always need a story line and such.

The flowing sheets remined of the Total Eclipes of the Heart video.

It reminded me of the literal video of that, so yeah, that’s always amuses me now.

I find it depressing, and I do not think LLWD is.

I think that shots of people picnicking or doing lots of “fun” stuff would have been far too cheesy. I like this much better.

What I love about LLWD is the message of living every moment. It’s full of good vibes and that’s why this video is a real disappointment to me. I just hate the gloominess. I would have loved to see a sun soaked, upbeat video showing Kris embodying the meaning of the song.

But I love the song and Kris looks beautiful, as always, so there is that!

What ross said @ 10:49 – perfect!

I totally agree, girlygirl, but I wanted him to be more…you know…upbeat or something? I mean, he just looked lost and forlorn. And the sheets were distracting as was the warehouse. Where was hope? Now, if he had just sung it, with the clock behind him; THAT would have worked for me.

That was one, HUGE piano. It looked out of place in this video.

I think it looked out of place b/c it was a “new” looking grand piano in a junk yard. An old banged up standing piano would have fit better-kinda like he just happened upon it and started playing it.

Kris Allen is a talented, adorable man. And spectacular performer.

But that video was, literally, a disaster.

Conceptually, strategically, artistically a complete, unmitigated, WTF?

ITA — I think Jive is blowing it with Kris. And what is with having Kris play the accoustic guitar and piano in the video when those instruments aren’t being played in the song.

Sounds like Kris likes this MV and was involved in the creative concept so perhaps the Kris Allen I though I knew from Idol is not the real Kris Allen. But I sured like the Kris Allen of Heartless and ANS a whole lot more that the Kris Allen in this video.

But he does look really good in this video.

I personally LOVE it. The imagery, the concept of time (FYI, that’s a wristwatch hanging off the rear-view mirror), Kris’ gorgeous face. My one teensy little quibble is that I wish we’d gotten one last face shot at the end as he looks at the sunrise’ ¦that orange light at dawn makes ANYBODY look good. We got a tease in the middle when he leans on the car and looks out at what I presume is west’ ¦I expected sunrise/face shot! That being said, for me (for you), sunrise=hope, so not too apocalyptic to me.

And for those looking for more explicit imagery or a ‘storyline,’  not all videos need that. To quote Adam, ‘it ain’t that deep, people.’  That was the thing I DIDN’T like about David Cook’s ‘Light On’  video was that silly plotline. Less teen drama, more pretty, please!

I agree with you Cookbunnie that a last shot with his face bathing in the sunrise light would have been a win.
Love your whole comment

LOVE LOVE LOVE IT!!!! Too much hotness! And it doesn’t look cheap at all. Bravo. I can watch this video over and over.

Having watched a fair number of videos over the past few years and complained fairly often about how they didn’t seem to me to express the song and then had people tell me that they’re not *supposed* to, I now conclude that the point of a video currently is to show a romantic image of the artist that viewers can fantasize about. The video isn’t expected to have much or anything to do with the song, necessarily. It’s that image they’re after, because then you’ll be drawn toward the singer and, hopefully, his/her “product.” If that’s actually the deal, then I’d say — Mission accomplished. Kris is awfully pretty in awfully romantic lighting here.

It’s so KRIS, that’s what I like about it for him. It’s stylish and sweet and fun. And he looks great.

I like it. I think the digital clock effect with the lights is neat.

I couldn’t even tell it was a digital clock until almost the end of the video.

Q3.. must be a jive thing… lol they had archie playing piano and guitar in crush.. lol

Yes, but, correct me if I’m wrong, Kris doesn’t actually play guitar and piano on LLWD, does he? A bit deceptive, no?

This just seem nitpicky to me. We saw Kris play guitar on LLWD in the handful of live performances he has done–we know that he didn’t have time to play for the album. If he couldn’t play either of these instuments then that would be deceptive.

Live Like We’re Dying is not about having fun by the way, it’s about making sure that we appreciate people and things in our life before it’s too late. It’s a fairly serious theme, and the idea of waterskiing, well, just’ ¦I don’t think so. No offense.

And’ ¦a video doesn’t have to be literally a depiction of the theme of a song, like paint by the numbers. Videos are creative and this is both creative and sophisticated. It showcases the song and Kris beautifully.
Just my opinion.

Though I agree with you basic premise…the problem with this video in relation to the song is in the video Kris is by himself, disconnected, and in some aspect self absorbed. (not that Kris is just the feel of the video) While the song is about not being any of those things. That is why I feel it would have been better to maybe start out this way but then have his band join him, him smiling, and leaving the impressive of being happy with what you have and rejoice in life. This video in no way make me feel that way. Kris look absolutely amazing and again what he does he does well. (of course) but for me there is a disconnect with the message of the song and the message of the video. Love KRIS though

I’m surprised so many people find the video depressing. The world imploded in the Time for Miracles vid. Not exactly uplifting. :-/

Yes, but, correct me if I’m wrong, Kris doesn’t actually play guitar and piano on LLWD, does he? A bit deceptive, no?

LOL ‘“ just a bit, but what else was he to do *shrugs*

You know, when I first saw the piano in the mv, I had a hint of a thought along those lines, but couldn’t quite put my finger on what exactly seemed out of place. Lol – that is hilarious.

I have to confess, I wasn’t crazy about this. Tiny Kris was overwhelmed by all the bigness. He even looked small playing on the piano, which should have been a highlight.

Watching that giant countdown clock just made me think “oh, another 2 minutes, till he’s done… another minute till he’s done… another… ” and then I muted the sound.

Good God that was lame. Some past Idols have had bad videos but that is right up. Kris is right, we are dying but thankfully not as fast as this turkey of a song.

Live Like We’re Dying is not about having fun by the way, it’s about making sure that we appreciate people and things in our life before it’s too late.

I agree with this interpretation of the song — but I don’t get that message from the MV — I just get a message that time is passing — Kris alone in the desert, giant clock ticking, but there is not even an allusion to him thinking about anyone else.

JMHO — they could have done something really interesting with this song’s MV — and communicated the song message that Ross wrote — but it’s just not there.

“I’m surprised so many people find the video depressing. The world imploded in the Time for Miracles vid. Not exactly uplifting. :-/”

lol

I’m surprised so many people find the video depressing. The world imploded in the Time for Miracles vid. Not exactly uplifting. :-/

I think the main problem is the mood as it matches the song itself. TFM is about the world going kablooey, and then hope springing forth – so the mv (imo) seems to fit that a little better. LLWD seems to have a much more carpe diem theme going on throughout that the darker mv doesn’t quite capture as well. Though tbh this didn’t particularly bother me upon viewing it the first time.

Just had to watch Cook’s LO video, what is up with the teenagers?

Long time lurker from the UK chiming in to show my appreciation. LOVE the video! Didn’t notice him with a cord at first but after reading the interview and watching again the concept became clearer. I guess Kris is doing all the things he wants to do while the clock is ticking

“The idea behind it is that I plug in the clock and I’m pulling the big cord through the junkyard and through all these other things and then I plug in the clock and it starts counting down to zero and there’s performance stuff in there. I’m playing the guitar and playing the piano and singing, too. In the end when it hits zero, it’s kind of like the song, it’s like we only have so much time so we gotta do what we want to do.”

http://www.popeater.com/2009/11/06/kris-allen-live-like-were-dying/

And what is with having Kris play the accoustic guitar and piano in the video when those instruments aren’t being played in the song.

No, they are played in the song, just not by Kris.

Since when do music videos need to be literal, or have anything to do with the lyrics of the song, or even make sense? It’s art, not the evening news.

I like the look and the atmosphere of the video, love the digital clock counting down the time. I think the video will benefit from being on a larger screen when VH1 plays it on the countdown. I hope they premier it tomorrow.

BTW- Kris does play guitar when he performs the song live.

It seemed like a fairly inexpensive set- some 2×4′s, some flourescent lights… truck in a piano and there you go.
They even made Kris himself drive the truck.
And not even a new one.

I dont think they always need a story line and such.

Maybe not. But I thought Archie’s video for Crush was very well done. It had a nice little storyline and really evoked the feeling of an innocent summer crush. I can still picture the scene of everyone laughing with the yellow stickies on their foreheads. It just made the whole video more memorable. (Although the girls looked a little older than Archie, lol, but what can you do? He’s just a young looking guy.)

I love the shots of Kris on the piano, and I love this song more and more.

The good news keeps coming, Kris will be named one of People Magazine’s sexiest men alive: http://www.people.com/people/package/video/0,,20315920_20316395,00.html

I am absolutely loving this video….very, very conceptually cool! Yay, Kris Allen!

“Since when do music videos need to be literal, or have anything to do with the lyrics of the song, or even make sense? It’s art, not the evening news.

I like the look and the atmosphere of the video, love the digital clock counting down the time. I think the video will benefit from being on a larger screen when VH1 plays it on the countdown.”

exactly lol

Im not even really a fan of the song but I do like the video.

Real quick comments on this new thread which I want to read in it’s entirety. I love it!!!! I love how they switch between him singing, guitar and piano! The only comment I briefly saw mentioned that he doesn’t play piano and guitar in the song, lol, it’s call taking artistic liberty (other vids do this as well). In reality Kris can do both, so why not? LOVE IT!!!!

He looks great!

Kudos to Starr for calling the sunrise at the end! Awesome touch!!!

David Cook’s storyline didn’t even go with Light On last year, but it was still cool seeing David singing with his band. Wish they had shown Kris’s band. All in all, me likey. Going back to watch again’ ¦.

LMAO, so true. LO’s video was a HUGE WTF for fans. What about this dorky bus boy and this blonde girl with the mean boyfriend has ANYTHING to do with the lyrics in LO?

But I dunno, I wasn’t looking for a literal/cheesy interpretation of the lyrics, but maybe something slightly more obvious than the big digital clock that you didn’t even see until the end. And like I said, Kris looked kinda lonely. A few cuts of the performance pieces might’ve looked better with a band? Yes, a banged up grand piano would’ve looked way cooler in that setting. And I could’ve done with fewer shots of the mike stand singing. Why not some shots of just singing as he’s walking without the stand? But now I’m just nitpicking. Overall it looks good. Hope it does well on VH1 Top 20, etc. and helps out the song. I really do like LLWD.

when the mv starts, my first reaction was “horror movie? … well, that would be interesting and maybe something creative.” but then I laughed out when Kris running with torch and standing on those Victoria-Secret-show boxes.

The piano is too dominant. Not only Kris didn’t play much when recording the song, but also there ain’t much piano going on in the song when Kris is humping it.

The pushing over the mic and facing the rising sun at the end is so cliche and funny.

Nevertheless, Kris is cute here. All the above are just annoying distractions for me to focus on his cute puppy face.

I couldn’t even tell it was a digital clock until almost the end of the video.

Really? I saw it right away. But then I’m used to seeing digital clocks counting up seconds in a year, seconds since Jan 1, 1970 and various other big versions of seconds.

It also kind of reminds me of that JT video with all the flourescent bulbs.

This is my last comment on this subject. The demographic they’re going after will like this video. Life is dark and angsty and so are they. lol

This video does not at all give me second hand embarrassment. In fact, it’s so the opposite. I won’t be hiding this video or this CD away from friends and family. It’s that good.

American Idol has been taking baby steps toward earning musical cred and not just being seen as a big machine. With Kelly, Carrie, Daughtry and Cook and now Kris (to name a few), that credibility is skyrocketing. I love Puig’s vision. I love this video. My 16 year old son will love it.

Oh, and as far as the whole guitar and piano thing, we KNOW for a fact that Kris CAN play those instruments. Nothing misleading there and a bit of a nit-pick as far as I’m concerned.

Nothing’s gonna bring me down about this video. Hallelujah! It could have gone so very wrong if the song had been done all hearts and rainbows and sunlight. To all that’s Holy thank you!!

“It seemed like a fairly inexpensive set- some 2×4′s, some flourescent lights’ ¦ truck in a piano and there you go.
They even made Kris himself drive the truck.
And not even a new one.”

one word… Jive

don’t question the motives of fellow posters

I saw this on the Idol Forums.net and this could be the actual concept
There might not be a story on the surface, but it actually has one. Starting scene of Kris driving signifies him from a normal life to his what he does best. Kris is shown here as 3 roles. A singer, a guitarist and a pianist. And while he performs the song, the clock is ticking away, which signifies that he is living his dream. The ending shot of the break of dawn is powerful, which signifies a brand new day = a brand new journey for Kris.

I’m confused as to why the video is considered depressing. I thought the concept was pretty cool and quite different from the typical video plot cliches.

It seemed like a fairly inexpensive set- some 2×4′s, some flourescent lights’ ¦ truck in a piano and there you go.
They even made Kris himself drive the truck.
And not even a new one.

It looked like a gutted container that they divided into cubicles. Made me think of cattle cars. There’s Kris Allen in a dreary cubicle and the clock outside the cattle car is counting down the seconds till we’re dying or something.

I mean, I’m all for abstract arty interpretations and like a lot of stuff that makes no sense whatsoever, but this was just depressing. I guess I don’t like giant cattle cars and countdown clocks.

Really like the video. Glad there was emphasis on Kris at the piano and guitar. He looks so natural with an instrument.

Kris’s gorgeousness and an interesting concept was all that was needed.

Huh. I actually thought that was one of the best Idol videos ever. They didn’t spend a ton of $ (as usual) but the look is beautiful. And it’s a masterpiece compared to the videos for Tattoo, Light On and even TfM.
And I haven’t even mentioned Blake’s masterpiece. At least, it doesn’t make you cringe watching it.

I might be in the minority ( I didnt read all of the comments)

but, I really liked this video. I’m happy that its not a “Nickleback video” where it all looks the same with people in their everyday lives. I’m glad Kris had input in the video. I’m very proud of him. Even though Adam was my favorite, I’m really rooting for Kris. I hope his album does exceptoinally well.

I’m surprised so many people find the video depressing. The world imploded in the Time for Miracles vid. Not exactly uplifting. :-/

Time for miracles is a video for a disaster film In the film the world is exploding so the video makes sense with the movie.

Huh. I actually thought that was one of the best Idol videos ever. They didn’t spend a ton of $ (as usual) but the look is beautiful. And it’s a masterpiece compared to the videos for Tatoo, Light On and even TfM.
And I haven’t even mentioned Blake’s masterpiece. At least, it doesn’t make you cringe watching it.

I agree.

I feel like if Kris did the video like it was focused on other peoples lives, he would still get flack. No matter what he does not everyone is going to like it. Example – David Cook’s Light on plot was based around a teen romance, and many people did not like that.

I like the artistic approach to the song. I think if he had a plot, personally i think people would be confused between that video and a Nickelback video…. or any other video for that matter.

Ha, A+ Jive! I LOVE this – this is exaaactly what I was hoping for. It’s cool and slick, and looks like they put some money into this. They’ve moved Kris beyond “cutesy” Kris and portrayed him as cool, gorgeous and sexy.

Love that they showed him on guitar and piano – that will appeal to non-Idol fans who love the musician-type, and also will remind casual Idol fans who don’t follow the show beyond May about Kris – the one who played guitar and piano on the show.

I absolutely love the shots of him at the grand – gorgeous.

I’m so thrilled, this makes my day! Four for you, Jive!

I didn’t like sweet Kris’s song but, I love watching him in this video. He is so appealing, and it’s good vibes come through on videos. I like watching him preform too, he’s just simply a joy to watch.Makes me like the song, and I downloaded from itunes already.

wow. Just Wow. Very cool. For me, this is someone who has been living without thinking about the time ticking down on him, he’s in the dark, on the edges of life (maybe even more literally, to play with the torn material, the “tattered edges” of life). Maybe we could go a bit more literal and say that his life is falling apart around him, the junk yard, the clunker truck he’s driving. Him plugging that big honkin’ clock in is the point where he does realize that he needs to, well, live like he’s dying. The sun coming out at the end is fairly obviously symbolic of this new realization he has, which he has just verbalized in the song; he takes his new outlook on life, and he walks off into the new day (his new life) to start doing what he’s been singing about.
A couple of the symbols are a tiny bit heavy-handed (the clock for one, but it’s totally a cool, huge, LED clock, which was unexpected, so I’ll give them that one), but apparently a few people STILL didn’t get it, so maybe not so heavy-handed.
Many thanks to Marco Puig for — 1.) not including actual scenes of people “looking down the barrel of a gun,” falling from the sky, etc. and for 2.) not including scenes of people dancing through the flowers, having a picnic, etc. (oh my god, thank you) 3.) Making us look a bit deeper into the song 4.) Allowing Kris to just be so darn pretty in the desert.
I kind of wanted the band in there somewhere, but that too would have of messed with their concept. This guy, everyone actually, needs to come to this particular realization on their own, don’t you think?
Him playing the instruments — Really people? Do you think that he can’t play this song on these instruments? Do you think he won’t? Do you think that there has never been an artist who played his guitar on a music video and then later in concert but didn’t actually play it on the recording? Sheesh.
I like this dark, moody, flare-lit video very much. It’s artsy and hasn’t a hint of cheese. Yay. and once again WOW
Sorry this is so long. Excited

Since when do music videos need to be literal, or have anything to do with the lyrics of the song, or even make sense? It’s art, not the evening news.

THIS. I loved this video. I thought it conveyed the essence of the song (which I like), and I thought it showcased Kris. And it was visually beautiful. For me, for you.

“like this dark, moody, flare-lit video very much. It’s artsy and hasn’t a” hint “of cheese>

Yes, visually it’s very beautiful This guy should do all the Idol videos in my opinion. Not that videos really mean much more anymore but still it’s nice to see a well done one>

jambajim: @KrisAllen Neat video!! Love that when it starts u look like you’re playing on the abandoned Hollywood Squares set and then BAM! HUGE CLOCK!

In looking at other works by the director, Marco Puig, this music video falls right in line with his other work. His videos seem to have simple concepts with a lot of top notch visual imagery and tend to focus on the performers. Take a look at The Kooks or Sugababes videos for a comparison. I really don’t think it takes a million dollar video budget to sell an artist. It seems to me that this video concept was primarily designed to highlight Kris. What more could we ask for?

I don ´t think the video fits the vibe of the song, found the vid too dark but Kris looks cute though but he looks much younger than he already is, reminded me of David Archuleta is some parts.

this is someone who has been living without thinking about the time ticking down on him, he’s in the dark, on the edges of life (maybe even more literally, to play with the torn material, the ‘tattered edges’  of life). Maybe we could go a bit more literal and say that his life is falling apart around him, the junk yard, the clunker truck he’s driving. Him plugging that big honkin’ clock in is the point where he does realize that he needs to, well, live like he’s dying.

Very well said!!

As Kris playing instruments — when he performs LLWD live he DOES play the guitar. And we know he plays the piano on other songs. So it’s not like they are misrepresenting Kris as a musician.

So far the reaction I’ve seen to the MV on twitter and other websites has been pretty positive.

I like the song a lot better now watching it with the video. I’ve only heard the song all the way through a couple of times. But the video reminds me how much I enjoyed Kris last season. So, I guess the video did it’s “job” with me. I’m sold.

I’ll get his CD when it comes out. I don’t think I will preorder though. I haven’t been paying attention. There are probably some perks for preordering though, right?

Many thanks to Marco Puig for ‘” 1.) not including actual scenes of people ‘looking down the barrel of a gun,’  falling from the sky, etc. and for 2.) not including scenes of people dancing through the flowers, having a picnic, etc. (oh my god, thank you) 3.) Making us look a bit deeper into the song 4.) Allowing Kris to just be so darn pretty in the desert.

What about water skiing?

The more I watch it, the more I love it… Great introduction for Kris… Way to go, Marco Puig!

Or…what Triskel4 said!

Very cool. I like the clock in the back. I also liked that Kris’s musical talents of playing both guitar and piano were showcased.

Not to be OT but when is the Live steaming of Kris’s Album going to start or has it? Thank you.

Eileen99
11/06/2009 at 11:20 am
Ha, A+ Jive! I LOVE this ‘“ this is exaaactly what I was hoping for. It’s cool and slick, and looks like they put some money into this. They’ve moved Kris beyond ‘cutesy’  Kris and portrayed him as cool, gorgeous and sexy.

Love that they showed him on guitar and piano ‘“ that will appeal to non-Idol fans who love the musician-type, and also will remind casual Idol fans who don’t follow the show beyond May about Kris ‘“ the one who played guitar and piano on the show.

I absolutely love the shots of him at the grand ‘“ gorgeous.

I’m so thrilled, this makes my day! Four for you, Jive!

I really like it as well. The visuals are stunning and I love the tones – beautiful!
I’m glad they didn’t do some cheesy theme related video – this suits the song and Kris much better.
I did not think Kris looked small or tiny in the vid at all – he did however look hunky, manly and so very handsome
Two Thumbs Up!

CRB: Kris is right, we are dying but thankfully not as fast as this turkey of a song.

Yeah, that must be why its sales increased last week!

CathyMK: Since when do music videos need to be literal, or have anything to do with the lyrics of the song, or even make sense? It’s art, not the evening news.

Exactly. Almost every music video ever made is fakey — the singer is lip-synching, the band is “sound-synching”, etc. etc. etc. And many have nothing to do with the song. Non-issue.

I just realized that the fact that Live Like We’re Dying and Time For Miracles are somewhat “apocalyptic” is having a major effect on the world. Of course “Friday I’ll Be Over U”, I’ll be decimated by the apocalypse, I even had to shorthand the “You” to plot my escape. I mean, Danny Gokey and Michael Sarver didn’t have time to finish their song titles. “It’s Only” what? “You Are” what? How unfortunate. Idol messages are so weird these days.

Okay, that was kinda off topic, but I liked the video, though it was a little light. For some reason I liked how it was only Kris and nobody else apparently. The song itself, even though it’s upbeat, does kinda have the message that “We’re gonna die someday, so make every second count with the people you’re with.” Or just simply “Don’t take anything for granted.” I think I got it. The timer is supposed to indicate how our lives aren’t very long (well, at least compared to the Earth’s life >_>) and from remembering that you could remember that people have so many regrets they take to their graves. I think that really complements the song, which is supposed to tell us that we should really appreciate life like a person who is dying does just before they pass on. I think the message is stronger in the second verse and the bridge. Good stuff, IMO.

Was the “sparkler thing” at the beginning the plug of the clock? Then I get it, it just symbolizes that Kris is the one telling us his message .

Also Kris has a sexy face that even straight men like me can appreciate.

Also this video is the horrible reminder that when I’m at my sister’s house with my cousin and this video shows up on On-Demand my cousin will make me watch Adam’s video and not let me watch this one. Ugh. Life.

I thought this is a cool video, especially the giant clock ticking away, Kris playing on the grand piano and guitar (good way of showing his talents to new fans) and him singing in that junkyard. Not exactly the concept that I’ve in mind. I was thinking of scenes of families and friends coming together to cherish their last moments on earth as the world comes to an end…LOL a bit cheesy but appeals to the emotions.

‘It seemed like a fairly inexpensive set- some 2×4′s, some flourescent lights’ ¦ truck in a piano and there you go.
They even made Kris himself drive the truck.
And not even a new one.’ 

MTV’s Jim Cantiello doesn’t agree with you:

jambajim Kris Allen’s music video has arrived! Pretty cool and stylized for a performance-based clip. Very $$$-looking!! http://tinyurl.com/yzsn9gl
about 1 hour ago from web

And, that’s from someone who’s seen a lot of videos. Given the time of day that they shot it, and the resume of the director and the videographer, I’m pretty sure that Jive paid a lot of money for this video.

I don’t think it’s cheap, and while it’s not as artsy as some of the directors other videos, maybe he could have done more to get the theme across. The point is that Kris is doing all of the things that he wants, he’s playing and making music. In a way, the video corresponds with Kris’ decision to try out for and stick with American Idol, he was taking what he thought was his last chance to break into the industry.

jambajim: @KrisAllen Neat video!! Love that when it starts u look like you’re playing on the abandoned Hollywood Squares set and then BAM! HUGE CLOCK!

LOL…that Jim, he is so funny.

Jim said that Kris reminds him of an old friend, like he has known him since they were kids. Like childhood friends even though they just met this year.

That is really a good compliment.

The good news is, this is the second time I have listened to this song and I do now think I like it. Has a Maroon 5 feel to it.
The bad is, I’m not sure I get the ragged and gloomy ruins as backdrop. Reminds me too much of 2012 Lite, and it seems too brooding and dark for a song that seems so uplifting and bright.
Do like him at the piano, how he can’t stay seated as he plays.

Triskel4, ross – ITA wt you guys. Love the video!

Correct me if I’m wrong, but was Kris’s band even established when the video was shot– I don’t think it was? I think the video is perfect– it isn’t a cheese-fest and highlights how freaking adorable/sexy he is and that he’s a musician– not some karaoke singer. It should do the job to attract non-AI fans IMO.

I LOVE the concept for this music video.

I think the video represents a point of epiphany when a person realizes that he needs to live the life to the fullest. The countdown begins and slowly everything becomes clearer, illuminated, hence the countdown towards the dawn, the representation of a new beginning. OR maybe I’m just reading too much into this video, maybe they just thought it would be cool to have that huge fluorescent lamp clock set and the awesome chiaroscuro lighting techniques. Either way, visually this video is awesome.

Ok. I did read the comments here before I watched, but I came into it trying to have an open mind. This is my first time to hear the song and watch the video.

I am a huge David Archuleta fan and liked Kris on AI this year but wasn’t that impressed with him talent wise and have not followed him at all.

I think the song is great. It is catchy and the message, to me, is very uplifting. It is about living like it is your last day here– not forgetting to do those things that you would do on your last day like saying you love someone.

I thought the visuals were great, although even though people talked about a digital clock, it didn’t occur to me until at least half way through that that thing in the back was the clock (duh). I thought it was some kind of burning building. Funny. I am a little sick so maybe my mind isn’t quite here.

Overall– very good. Kris IS a cutie and his vocals were good. I definitely see some major growth in him since AI.

Outside AI, not many people will get excited about this MV. A lot of indie bands have much cooler video than this.

Didn’t work for me. I found the imagery annoying. The video didn’t flow. It had these all these aspects like the plastic pieces floating around and the torch and the little shots of the clock that had jerky, disconnected visual dominance. The only time I was paying attention to was the time until this thing was finally over.

One more thing, considering the fact that artists are lip-synching during these videos, isn’t it just a little bit silly to act like Kris playing the piano and guitar in the video is a big deal? That’s about as silly as trying to act like the world was coming to an end because LLWD was recorded by another group.

I liked it very much. It’s a very cool video. A lot of it doesn’t make sense, true. But visually it is very eye-catching and engaging. That’s the main purpose here I think, to keep our eyes peeled to the screen. I agree with the peeps about the microphone and mic stand though. Seems too out of place. It’s like he needs it as a crutch. They have it there just so his hands have something to work with. But I think it would have been more effective if he just sang without it and did just a little bit of acting, like Adam did in his video. Also, the big old grand piano makes him look so small. They should have used a baby grand instead. Heh.

I also like him in earth tone and brown colors. Slezak once said that he was mesmerized by Kris’s skin when he was on AI, and they sure made his skin look nice for the video.

Great job make-up, hair, lighting and wardrobe people.

I’m happy that the video didn’t go the literal route, save for the digital clock/time analogy, of course. It’s fine as it is, at least for me. Plus, the vid focused on the singer, which is a good thing, of course, and the building blocks of time, w/c is the theme.

And, in case people forgot his name, for the AI casual viewers and non-AI fans, there it was, on the vid, too. I think the subliminal message is, time’s running out, must buy Kris Allen’s music, or I’ve still got time to buy his music, or the time to buy his music is now. Though for some people, it could be the other way around. For me, it’s the positive one.

Slezak tweets:

@EWMichaelSlezak Brain. Just. Shifted. Inside. Skull. Gotta type like I’m dying! RT @Sarashina_Nikki I have one word for you: HENLEY. http://bit.ly/7AL2y

I love the video. I think it fits the song really well. I don’t get the hate with the Guitar playing and piano playing at all. Some people act like Kris doesn’t play them really. And we all know that’s not true. I don’t think it’s cheesez at all. Can’t wait to be able to buy the video. Today am so happy that I am a Kris fan. And Kris if you ever come here and post I gotta say. Am so proud of you and your music video.

DLee
11/06/2009 at 10:50 am
According to Kris, this was the concept:
‘The idea behind it is that I plug in the clock and I’m pulling the big cord through the junkyard and through all these other things and then I plug in the clock and it starts counting down to zero and there’s performance stuff in there.’ 

What?

In that case the video is faithful to the concept.

great video..good job team Kris.

I don’t get the hate with the Guitar playing and piano playing at all.

I am still waiting to see video of Kris playing Viola.

auntieaimee
11/06/2009 at 11:02 am
I’m surprised so many people find the video depressing. The world imploded in the Time for Miracles vid. Not exactly uplifting. :-/

Of course, but one is about the end of the world as we know is and one is about living fully, so the comparison doesn’t work for me.

Also, the big old grand piano makes him look so small. They should have used a baby grand instead. Heh.

Kris is short

He was short yesterday, he will be short tomorrow. He will never grow any bigger.
Just saying.

It works for me

As long as I get to see that gorgeous Kris..lol

“Kris is short…so is Blake, and Archie. ..and I still love them. That didn’t hurt Archie’s career. And apparently Adam found Kris quite attractive. .There many artists who are short. Prince is shorter than most women, but he is hot.

Not to be OT but when is the Live steaming of Kris’s Album going to start or has it? Thank you.

This is on Monday.

Triskel4, i think you have one of the best comment on this video so far. Totally agree with you.
It’s introducing Kris as a new artist, so i think the important things are there:
* his passion for music
* he plays guitar and piano
* he’s a cutie or is hot as hell — depends on taste..lol
* a strong element representative of the song — the display of the huge digital clock and him playing inside it …. is just cool in my opinion
* the message of the song is nicely and subtlely expressed as said by Triskel4

I LOVE the concept for this music video.

I think the video represents a point of epiphany when a person realizes that he needs to live the life to the fullest. The countdown begins and slowly everything becomes clearer, illuminated, hence the countdown towards the dawn, the representation of a new beginning. OR maybe I’m just reading too much into this video, maybe they just thought it would be cool to have that huge fluorescent lamp clock set and the awesome chiaroscuro lighting techniques. Either way, visually this video is awesome.

You got it, this is why I don’t understand when people say that there isn’t a story, there is a story, and it’s not that abstract. One of the first signs that this is a story is the fact that the video becomes less dark as it nears it’s end, all the way up to the sun rising.

The video brings the song to life and highlights Kris. I liked it. Good job.

Okay, can I just add that the close up of him paused from the video feed is enough to make any woman drool?!!!!

Not this woman. He’s looks too “little boyish”. If walking down the street, I wouldn’t give him a second glance.

I had to rewatch the video a second time after reading his description of it. I didn’t realize the background was a digital clock. I guess I’m dense.

I did like the scenes of him playing the piano, that was cool.

I was wondering why they didn’t lift up the top of the piano, then Kris stand up and he was barely taller than the piano! LOL. He should have kept his butt on the bench the whole time!

The sun raising at the end is a start of another day in your life, like a renewal, and you are ready to face another day, but you have to remember to LIVE LIKE WE’RE DYING.

We now know what he is looking at on the album cover. He’s looking at the add on “Are you a Adam Lambert Fan?.

Not this woman. He’s looks too ‘little boyish’ .

Kris is at that age where he can appeal to teens also. Teens also make up a big market. I saw Kris on a cover a teen magazine…lol

One more thing, considering the fact that artists are lip-synching during these videos, isn’t it just a little bit silly to act like Kris playing the piano and guitar in the video is a big deal?

LOL I wasn’t making a “big deal” about it! Just a tiny little deal. But no, there isn’t really a parallel with lip-synching to your own voice. IMHO.

CRB: Kris is right, we are dying but thankfully not as fast as this turkey of a song.

Yeah, that must be why its sales increased last week!

You mean, that’s why it has increased in sales two weeks in a row, and why it is in the top 30 on the HAC chart, and about to break into the top 40 on the top 40 chart.

Its not cheesy / obvious, which is amazing and what I was hoping for with the video.

LLWD the song is about living life to its fullest. Its about living your dreams now so that on your deathbed you do not have any regrets.

The video starts with Kris pulling up to a junkyard in a pickup truck. Here, he is playing the Kris Allen that existed before American Idol. Normal guy that has a normal job. His dream is to be a musician. He gets to live out his dream by putting on a performance. Only for this one night though as at dawn he has to go back to his normal life. The clock serves two purposes.

A) the first full image of the clock shows 15 minutes which means that for the Kris in the video, these 15 minutes of fame are his and he should live in the moment and enjoy every second of it. Could also be a poke at any doubters who claim that this is just Kris’ 15 minutes of fame.

B) counts down the seconds he has to live his dream. Even the milliseconds are shown on this clock to express that every moment matters.

I promise you, there is a story here. Just because it is not as obvious as a cancer patient skydiving does not mean that it does not exist.

One more thing, considering the fact that artists are lip-synching during these videos, isn’t it just a little bit silly to act like Kris playing the piano and guitar in the video is a big deal?

Regarind lip-synching, this mv does a better job than TFM imo.

I don’t mind the playing piano thing. It would be better if the scene is synced with some actual piano sound in the song tho.

I’m not really a big Kris fan and would be the first to snark on it but for an Idol video, it’s damn good. As in if I never saw Kris on Idol and saw this on Vh1, I’d like it. Good song, cute singer, especially good for HAC.

And looking like Archie or being a little guy won’t hurt at all with teen girls. I mean Break Anotha and TfM videos were both laugh out loud ridiculous. This is actually decent.

Slezak’s review is up at EW.com:
http://music-mix.ew.com/2009/11/06/kris-allen-live-like-were-dying-video/

This line’s my favorite, lol:

I can certainly see this one making headway at VH1, at least when the station isn’t playing Rock of Spreading Bed Bugs and Simultaneously Destroying the Sanctity of Love’ ¦and Humanity marathons.

Thank you so much OverBoard for your post. I agree a hundred percent with you. I believe there’s a story behind it too. And Kris does always say in interviews when asked that he would have given up and go back to college if he didn’t make it on to AI. I think this video is so Kris Allen.

Well the lip synching is horrible (but what to expect when the song’s so fast), but overall I liked the video because Kris is so pretty.

I like Kris, but for you for me, the song is repetitive and boring. The video looks low-budget and disjointed. It needs something cohesive to pull it altogether. Kris is very talented, but I don’t think he’s show-cased well in this vid. Or by the song. IMO, they shouldn’t rush these guys so much. Rather take a little longer and put out something really good. This has a “thrown-together” vibe.

Kris is short

He was short yesterday, he will be short tomorrow. He will never grow any bigger.
Just saying.

Ross, I think I might have to hug you.

I think they should have filmed this at a recycling plant and used solar energy to power the clock. More environmentally responsible …

I couldn’t even tell it was a digital clock until almost the end of the video.

Really? I saw it right away. But then I’m used to seeing digital clocks counting up seconds in a year, seconds since Jan 1, 1970 and various other big versions of seconds.

Yeah, I think Jamba Jim put it best, it was Hollywood Squares and then if was a clock. The clock thing really isn’t that apparent, not that he’s just randomly in some wooden square with the inexplicable microphone singing in front of billowing plastic, with lights around him that change somewhat.

It took him being at the inexplicable grand piano that I got a look at the whole wooden Hollywood Squares and realized it was a clock ticking down. Guess I’m too used to my computer clocks now and not digital ones

I just don’t get why this video isn’t more literal.

I would have put him in from of an enormous plastic alarm clock like the one I actually wake up to, with a built-to scale table lamp and a box of Kleenex.

Or, ok, what if the bedside clock is lifesize and Kris is two inches high to match, although that would leave a lot of unused space in the frame.

Also, he’s playing a piano in the desert, which will lead to a costly need to retune it. And I’m pretty sure the fire marshal’s won’t be happy about the safety of those giant flaming numbers.

And I’m still waiting for David Cook to return my messages about his failure to pass through security during his reckless Come Back to Me vid. What sort of messages does that send to terrorists?

Probably why they blew up the world that time and Adam couldn’t get a cab but still felt optimistic about finding a date. Nice priorities, Adam. A time for love, or a time for sending the wrong message to those who threaten our way of life?

American Idol music videos: why do they hate America?

I like this video The setting looks really cool…the only thing I didnt like was when he was playing the piano he got a little excited and it looked a bit frenetic (reminded me of the lead singer from Cold Play a bit LOL).
Im still not feeling the song too much though…but at least the video is nice…good for him I wish him the best.

I think they should have filmed this at a recycling plant and used solar energy to power the clock. More environmentally responsible ‘ ¦

When I heard they were making the mv in a desert, my thought went to Burning Man festival. That would be so cool and fit the song theme.

1. The truck was not fuel efficient…he should have driven up in a Prius. He is going to leave a giant carbon footprint driving that old clunker.

2. There are no giant clocks in the dessert.

3. He should have played an upright piano

4. Why wasn’t he playing a red guitar, like his song?.

100% happy with this cool video! Cheers, Kris!

FWIW I appreciate videos as art, not as storytelling. If I want the story, I’ll listen to the song. From the video, I am moved by visual appeal, interesting sets & lighting, unusual concept. The video doesn’t need to correlate with the song IMO. In fact, it’s a bit annoying when it does, as that assumes I need to be hand-held through the meaning of the song.

I was actually liking the video more BEFORE I browsed this thread and read everyone spoonfeeding us the the meaning of the video. LOLz.

Cool video for a cool song! I wouldn’t mind to have this on my TV anytime.

It’s funny, when they talked about time and dessert, the first thing that came to my mind was Kris surrounded by sand clocks. I’m glad to see it wasn’t the case, the director did a great job

FifthHouseSun
11/06/2009 at 10:37 am

Kris Allen is a talented, adorable man. And spectacular performer.

But that video was, literally, a disaster.

Conceptually, strategically, artistically a complete, unmitigated, WTF?

I just have to comment here. FHS, I generally agree with your posts, but I have to disagree here. IMO, this video is far from a disaster, in fact I would call it pure win! Very artistic and it uses Kris’s best assets, his passion and his musicality. In spite of the huge clock which is very obvious, I’m curious to go back and watch for any conceptually subtle meanings. I also think the sunrise (besides being beautiful) fits the concept well. The sunrise to me represents living. I am curious about the handcuffs. This is simply and subtle and very well done!

maturin, I just cried my eyes out reading a completely unrelated blog about a boy and his grandpa at a football game (hey, I multitask) and you just made me fall out of my chair laughing! I truly have been on an emotional rollercoaster in the last three minutes!

They did blow an opportunity to show bodies falling from the sky as Kris ducked on the ground below. But for that I say, Thank God.

American Idol music videos: why do they hate America?

maturin, I love you. LOL!

It’s just a video. Kris looks good and he sings his song. There’s a big clock. The end.

I think it does its job.

99.9% of the actors in Hollywood are wee little men. Kris will not be hampered by his stature.

I am not a Kris fan (don’t dislike him, just am neutral towards him), but I thought the video was nice..there is no need to do a literal visual interpretation of the song…the video looks visually appealing, does not look cheap…a lot of people apparently think he is cute, so it definitely shows off his cuteness, sends the message that he plays the guitar and piano…overall, a pretty good first video

They did blow an opportunity to show bodies falling from the sky as Kris ducked on the ground below.

Then the song would have been called “Live like we’re DIVING“.

I enjoyed the video and can’t wait to see it played.

The video is supposed to make you think. It goes from dark to light, Kris realizing that he has to make the most of every second. Which represents the sunrise, and him walking away from the junkyard.

I agree that the video should be art, and the song does the storytelling.

Just popping in from real life, I haven’t read thru the comments so I don’t know what people are saying, but I love it! I think it is beautiful! Gotta go back to RL for awhile but I can’t wait to come back and watch it again and read the opinions.

Brought from other thread:

Advertisement after video: I notice they’re saying the album also includes Written All Over My Face, and The Truth. The print ads I’ve seen also say this. I don’t know if this indicates what they want the next singles to be, or if it’s just what they knew would be on the album when they were doing the ads (and they had to have two titles to use).

Crap. They’re pushing the songs he didn’t have a hand in writing. Just like they did with Cook. Damn it damn it damn it!

The video is supposed to make you think. It goes from dark to light, Kris realizing that he has to make the most of every second. Which represents the sunrise, and him walking away from the junkyard.

I agree that the video should be art, and the song does the storytelling.

That is pretty good. I can see that.

I did recognize that in the ending when the sun was raising he was going to start a new day (life).

edit: please don’t comment on the comments

I’m one of the obviously dense people who would have liked to see a more upbeat video. (The digital clock was far too obtuse for me, I guess.) The song makes me feel good and the video doesn’t. It looks good and I don’t think it was cheaply made but I have a disconnect between the life affirming song and the visual that is being presented. A mileage thing. It really isn’t anything more than that. I love Kris and I love LLWD, I play it all the time.

Or, ok, what if the bedside clock is lifesize and Kris is two inches high to match

You mean he isn’t really two inches high?

Thank you, director, for realizing that Kris’ hotness comes through best when he is performing. And for the wind machine. And thank you Jive for spending some money on this and not cheaping out (omg, break anotha flashbacks, sob). And thank you Kris for being so awesomely inside the song when you sing, it really really shows. I was gonna pretend to like the video even if it sucked and I’m so happy I don’t have to! It’s GREAT! Love the clock thing, and Kris w/the flare, and the sunrise…love it.

American Idol music videos: why do they hate America?

@maturin – You get my vote for post of the day. Delicious!

Artistically it’s really great. Marco Puig rocks!!

I’m going to post here what I posted on Popeater. I don’t want to be influenced by anyone else. Then I’ll go read the comments. Here we go:

What a great concept. I like the dreamlike quality and what I see as a metaphor in the junkyard setting: A place where the things of our past dreams have been abandoned. Kris starts the clock ticking on the past to end with a new day as the time runs out.

The shot of him at the highly polished piano at dawn is exquisite as is his leaving and staring into the dawn at the end.

Loved it! Was that Casey Kasem announcing the release of Kris Allen’s album at the end?

jpfan
11/06/2009 at 12:22 pm

They did blow an opportunity to show bodies falling from the sky as Kris ducked on the ground below. But for that I say, Thank God.

Bwah!

I like the video. I’m so glad they decided not to go with a completely literal interpretation of the song. Also, I don’t know what the budget was for this, but as others have already said, big bucks don’t always equal a great product, and vice versa. My biggest quibble is the scenes with Kris and the microphone–it would have been better without the mike.

First I just want to say I have nothing but respect for anyone that can go out and do what he does. I am sure American Idol wasn’t a walk in the park but he won so kudos to him! However, when I hear him singing on this song it just sounds like the singer from Maroon 5. The way the chorus is sung kinda annoys me. When I watch the video, Kris just doesn’t seem natural to me. I thought the video was kinda boring and didn’t really tell the story of the song. Again, I can respect that some might love him, but I’m just not feeling this one.

wooo hooo! nice start to my 26th birthday….thank you Jive for putting this out today…

i loved it! i’m not going bananas over it because for me, it felt like i have watched this before. its soo kris-ish. the video really focuses on kris’s essence, and i love the fact that theres no big story out there. i loved the transition from the mic to the guitar to finally the piano. loved it!

this video is made of win cos its kinda artistic and very abstract, and i love abstract.

thank god it’s not literal. i think carrie’s “jesus take the wheel” video did enough of that to last us through several more idols.

this one does its job. it highlights kris. calling it an unmitigated disaster is beyond over-dramatic.

now who’s waiting for that videophone MV? lol.

Yeah, I think so, too.

Ross He was short yesterday, he will be short tomorrow. He will never grow any bigger.

It’s funny cause it’s true!

Awww, I love this video. I just find all of music video reality funny.

May this and whatever craziness they cook up for FYE and Alison’s song ascend to Vh1, the better to give joy and carpal tunnel syndrome for many moons.

and am i the only one here who wasn’t bothered by the whole story behind the vid cos i was busy admiring kris?

Ok… well I think its a good video considering the amount of time & money that was given the project. I didn’t ‘get’ the big digital clock until the last few seconds, which was kind of a bummer for me.

LLWD the song is about living life to its fullest. Its about living your dreams now so that on your deathbed you do not have any regrets.

The video starts with Kris pulling up to a junkyard in a pickup truck. Here, he is playing the Kris Allen that existed before American Idol. Normal guy that has a normal job. His dream is to be a musician. He gets to live out his dream by putting on a performance. Only for this one night though as at dawn he has to go back to his normal life. The clock serves two purposes.

A) the first full image of the clock shows 15 minutes which means that for the Kris in the video, these 15 minutes of fame are his and he should live in the moment and enjoy every second of it. Could also be a poke at any doubters who claim that this is just Kris’ 15 minutes of fame.

B) counts down the seconds he has to live his dream. Even the milliseconds are shown on this clock to express that every moment matters.

I promise you, there is a story here. Just because it is not as obvious as a cancer patient skydiving does not mean that it does not exist.”

Overboard, well said!!! Love your thoughts!

I haven’t read all the comments, only the last page or two, but I gotta say I LOVE THIS VIDEO!

Videos are so rarely literal in translation. Like someone said earlier, they are concept driven, not a literal storytelling of the song. At least not in the pop music genre. I mean really, possession and exorcism as a theme for the Kings of Leon song, Sex on Fire? And their Notion has things blowing up and fiery ash falling from the sky. WTH?

This is a good showcase for Kris. He looks great, the song sounds great, he looks great at his instruments, and the concept is cool. The only comment I agree with is that it would have been better if he was singing without a microphone.

Yes to this. Why not pictures of people on a picnic, running through meadows, laughing, at the beach’ ¦

That sounds really cheesy and awful.

Anyway, I really loved the video. I liked that it had a general theme of “time”, without being too literal and acting out every lyric or having a sunshiny, Mayberry atmosphere. Bravo, Kris. Really cool stuff.

hypnoticwhisper
11/06/2009 at 12:26 pm

The video is supposed to make you think.

I think Kris is cute, lol. The video is nice enough to look at, but darn I wish I liked this song even the least little bit. Just so not my style, I guess.

I like it!

I am not offended ozarka, not a bit. If it appears that I am, I am not, I am just referring to others who posted that Kris is short, and I pointed out that it was not an issue with Blake or Archie and it really shouldn’t effect their music.

But Kris is portrayed as a heartthrob, whereas I don’t think Blake or Archie were.

But, no, it shouldn’t effect their music.

so i went back and watched the video again and focussed more on what it represented and not just on kris! and have to agree with the person who said this:

I agree that the video should be art, and the song does the storytelling.

the video is totally artistic and doing something literal would have ruined the kris-essence….and would have ruined the song in the process.

and i have to add, having an abstract video makes it open to all kinds of interpretations….its surreal and pensieve almost and i love that

Slezak called the video “luxe”, and my — or almost my — first thought was how expensive it looked. I mean, you take a crew out to a remote setting for 24 hours, you build a big set, you bring a grand piano (!), you build a platform for it, you have wind machines and lighting…I’ve seen a lot of videos set in an apartment. Or on a soundstage. If this was cheap I’d be very surprised.

My thoughts on this video when I first watched it were simply that it was visually stunning and beautifully designed. I have watched it a few times now and I still think that. The huge clock illuminating the night is such a great image. It’s like modern art. There’s also something masculine about the imagery. The starkness of the desert setting, the truck, the lack of pretty colors, whatever. I thought the grand piano in the desert, wow. Just loved that.

This video is boring and won’t do anything to sell the song. Kris looks good and that’s really the only positive comment I can come up with

Well, I’m certainly seeing a lot of backslapping and lol’n and rol’n around here, which I thought was frowned upon at mj’s, but whatever’ ¦
[snip]
Like I said, whatever. But I distinctly recall a reminder something along the lines of a ‘pile on by the kewl kids’  is not cool.

I’m sorry, glamatheart. My comment to Ross wasn’t meant to do that. Just had a rough couple of days and Ross made me laugh. I just wanted to acknowledge that.

Peace.

Oh, and I wanted to add that a digital clock is perfect for representing 86,400 seconds in a day. But anyhow a digital clock is just so right, somehow, in this setting. Just works. I also liked how when he stood in the clock it became a stage, and the ragged things hanging down became curtains. I really like Marco Puig, he’s an awesome director.

Hey Ex-lurker, no worries!

Watching that giant countdown clock just made me think ‘oh, another 2 minutes, till he’s done’ ¦ another minute till he’s done’ ¦ another’ ¦ ‘  and then I muted the sound.

Tee hee.

Sorry to bust in here again, but doesn’t the clock say 01:5922, at the beginning? Not 15 minutes. Less than 2 minutes. It’s ticking down to zero. The clock almost ticks down in real time for the remainer of the video. The last time we see it, it’s near zero. I think that’s the idea of it, actually.

I really like it as well. The visuals are stunning and I love the tones ‘“ beautiful!
I’m glad they didn’t do some cheesy theme related video ‘“ this suits the song and Kris much better.
I did not think Kris looked small or tiny in the vid at all ‘“ he did however look hunky, manly and so very handsome
Two Thumbs Up!

I agree with this earlier post.
.
He’s hot, love the transition from midnight to sunrise, and love that he was shown playing his guitar and the piano.

May I just point out one of the possible reasons for the microphone clutching? Maximum exposure for a certain piece of jewelry, folks!

And BTW I have never understood the attitude that marriage isn’t sexy or ruins his marketability. Commitment is sexy, baby!

I don’t mind it. The song grew on me a bit.. I never listen to it… but if it was summer and I was going to the beach then I would def listen to it in the car.

The video was whatever. Kris is kind of whatever. Not spectacular, but not… woefully bad. Him bopping up and down was cute though!

You know what, this is a really good video. Since I am not an extreme fan of Kris’, I feel that I can be pretty objective . . . and I think its really nice. He looks great of course, but the first time I watched it I didn’t get that he was inside the clock . . . it wasn’t so literal and I liked that. Just kind of drew me in and made me want to watch it again. I think that obtuseness makes it more modern. If I want to watch a hamfisted literal video I can watch “Down Under” by Men At Work. “Hey video intern – we need a big muscled man and a jar of vegemite – STAT! IT’s in the lyrics!”

And I liked the guitar and piano. Who cares if they aren’t sinked up? THey almost never are in a video but it lets the casual viewer in on all of Kris’ talents. I Dug it.

Well another good thing about this video, it has a good look overall.

I don’t see why Kris’s height matter in this video. I think he looks cute, and the lighting really helps with that. So win win.

Kris is nice to look at, but that is about it. I was never fully sold on the song but with me a good video can change my mind. This one didn’t do it for me. It just wasn’t inspiring. I like the part when he is driving in the beginning, from there they should have showed why you should live like your dying, Where is the personal story behind this song? The microphone stand was too distracting and he bobs and hops around too much.

so what are we debating about here?

digital clock vs analog clocks
desert vs happy beach
mic stand vs no mic stand
living vs dying???

I just watched it again and I think I love it even more than the first time, after listening to the “concept” discussion here. Watching it with some of the perspectives others have and noticing some things others have noticed made it even more enjoyable!

Honestly, this video is just so full of win. Great single, great video, two for two, Kris. Great album for a trifecta? I think so!

Sorry to bust in here again, but doesn’t the clock say 01:5922, at the beginning? Not 15 minutes. Less than 2 minutes. It’s ticking down to zero. The clock almost ticks down in real time for the remainer of the video. The last time we see it, it’s near zero. I think that’s the idea of it, actually.

ya i noticed this too and i thought it was obvious! it counts down to zero and thats what the song is about anyway

I like the song, the video is very good but a few times I thought I was looking at David Archuleta! Similiar haircuts and stature!

Cute video. It’s likeable, just like Kris. I don’t think videos are the be all and end all anymore, especially with the demise of MTV’s commitment to them, but this should get him some hits on YouTube and MySpace.

I do agree that stellar videos can help a song. Like if you don’t like the song, but the video is funny or interesting.. I mean.. you keep watching.. and the more you’re exposed to something, the more you like it. for example, the Killers’ Christmas song called “Don’t Shoot Me Santa” was a bit weird at first.. but the video is lots of fun.. now I love DSMS!

Imagine Kris in his wings outfit (from Elle) holding a torch and walking out from a curtained box… Quite a Victoria Secret presence, isn’t it? He may need a higher heel through.

In a more serious note, the MV makes me like the song better.

so what are we debating about here?

digital clock vs analog clocks
desert vs happy beach
mic stand vs no mic stand
living vs dying???

Interesting video v. boring video?

I’m not sure why but it reminds me a lot of Kelly Clarkson’s video for Low

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6OdX2k9vDpk

frogcooke
11/06/2009 at 11:01 am
Q3.. must be a jive thing’ ¦ lol they had archie playing piano and guitar in crush.. lol

You’re right — I forgot about that! LOL

But I really think that Jive is right to show Kris playing a guitar and the piano — just wished they would have let him play on the single. It is an intregral part of who Kris is as an artist — so I understand why they did it. It’s just the playing doesn’t match the music so it is a bit odd IMO.

I am indifferent to Kris – liked some of what he did on Idol, but he wasn’t my favorite. This video is just fine to me – it would fit right in with all the other videos on VH1. Most videos these days are abstract, some are really “out there”, and those are usually the ones people remember. People who see this on TV and don’t know who Kris is are not going to care about how tall he is or why he is in the desert, lol.

Reminder:

Looks like I’m going to be pruning this thread a bit:

REMEMBER:

Stick to the subject. The subject is Kris’s video, NOT your fellow posters.
Please, no finger-wagging.

There’s a wonderful scene from the show Mad Men, where a group of guys are in the office looking at a Rothko painting and trying to discern it’s meaning. One of them says, “Maybe you are just supposed to experience it.” I guess the same could be said for this video.

In a more serious note, the MV makes me like the song better.

If that’s true then I consider it a success. You are not the only one in this thread to say something to this effect.

“But Kris is portrayed as a heartthrob, whereas I don’t think Blake or Archie were”

if Kris is being portrayed as a heartthrob, why does the picture on his album cover and the beginning of this video show his wedding ring

You know, watching this video and how he’s dressed…the solid colors, the jacket, etc., made he think of the photo shoots and the Miami show, and it hit me…

Has ANYONE seen him in PLAID since the tour ended? I don’t think I have!

ETA so I don’t post again…since when does a heartthrob HAVE to be single? What, you get married and then the priest beats you with the ugly stick?

It’s extremely hard to match up shots of a clock counting down in real time, just saying. I’ll bet that was exhausting to film, and to edit.

Has ANYONE seen him in PLAID since the tour ended? I don’t think I have!

Yeah, he wore the green and orange plaid shirt when he performed on the Collonade roof. And I’ll bet Katy has seen him in plaid a couple of times. Hey, Adam wore a plaid jacket the other night. Plaid is the new black.

Married heartthrobs: It never seemed to hurt Frank Sinatra’s appeal

“‘But Kris is portrayed as a heartthrob, whereas I don’t think Blake or Archie were’ 

if Kris is being portrayed as a heartthrob, why does the picture on his album cover and the beginning of this video show his wedding ring”

I recall Blake being portrayed as the heartthrob of Season 6. I also recall Archie being portrayed as a heartthrob on Season 7 – maybe for the younger girls (remember the stool interview with Ryan where the group of screaming girls were allowed to come on stage and surround him?) – and maybe not the only one (Jason, Cookie) but still a heartthrob.

Kris was portrayed as a heartthrob too – wedding ring and all.

In terms of the video, I love it. I find it interesting to watch, and love watching Kris on the guitar, piano and with just the mic.

In a more serious note, the MV makes me like the song better.

If that’s true then I consider it a success. You are not the only one in this thread to say something to this effect.

That’s is true. The visual effect successfully distracts me from Kris’ voice and the song. I know that doesn’t say much more about me than about the song….

cookbunny: “Has ANYONE seen him in PLAID since the tour ended? I don’t think I have!”

Good point! Although he did wear plaid crossing the abby road in London. That’s the only time I can remember.

Not sure if this has been posted yet – but here is Slezak’s review. I find him hysterical, as usual.

http://music-mix.ew.com/2009/11/06/kris-allen-live-like-were-dying-video/

lol…BeckyMD. Fair enough

Cookbunny: “ETA so I don’t post again’ ¦since when does a heartthrob HAVE to be single? What, you get married and then the priest beats you with the ugly stick?”

LMAO!!!

if Kris is being portrayed as a heartthrob, why does the picture on his album cover and the beginning of this video show his wedding ring

Married or not, you can still be a heartthrob. My statement was in response to a post that said Blake and Archies height wasn’t an issue and Kris’ shouldn’t be either.

For everybody who’s been mad at iTunes for days, it looks like they have finally updated the feeds, and Adam’s FYE is properly classified and displaying in the top songs list. Here are the current placements for the AI8 crew on iTunes overall:

FYE: #48
LLWD: #101
FIBOU: #118
TfM: #151
Want: #748

I’ve seen this posted by LadyMadonna on the headlines thread. Would love to see LLWD break the top 100 again soon.

Cookbunny: ‘ETA so I don’t post again’ ¦since when does a heartthrob HAVE to be single? What, you get married and then the priest beats you with the ugly stick?’ 

I haven’t heard that saying in a while. Thanks for the laugh.

ETA so I don’t post again’ ¦since when does a heartthrob HAVE to be single? What, you get married and then the priest beats you with the ugly stick?

Heh. That creates a funny mental image.

There have been lots of actors that have been married and heartthrobs. Many have made the cover of People’s Sexiest Men issue (e.g. Hugh Jackman, Brad Pitt, Mel Gibson (before he went psycho), Tom Cruise (before he went psycho)…hmmm…maybe men shouldn’t want to be on the cover).

I’m a theater critic and I’ve just reviewed three shows in a week, including writing a review this morning, so it’s really hard for me at the moment to turn off my internal critic. I apologize in advance for critiquery words…

The art direction and production values are stellar in this video, with excellent use of striking visual images and the interplay of dark and light. The junkyard backdrop, with pale strips of tattered fabric and a gigantic digital clock, is stark and atmospheric, making the message — that life can be grim and barren and you need to make your own light and find your own passion — crystal clear, especially when he walks into the sunrise at the end. Allen totally owns the song with his emotional, committed performance.

Having seen a lot of sets in my day, I would say this one was expensive and labor-intensive. Giant, lighted clocks and scaffolding don’t just build themselves in the middle of the desert.

I am really kind of shocked how much I liked this video. Cook’s “Light On” was so silly, and Blake totally got screwed. I thought Archie’s fit his sweet little song just fine, but it wasn’t any great shakes. LLWD has a darker message and this video ties it up in a bow. Good job, Mario Puig and PTB. I think you “got” Kris and what the song means to him, and the result is one awesome video.

good video. good song.

Reminder:

Ok, I just edited a PILE of posts. So, I will reiterate:

1. Respect your fellow poster’s opinions. No mocking or snarking on fellow posters (although you MAY snark on the idols)
2. NO Fingerwagging or modding other posters.
3. NO complaining about the thread, the tone of the thread or your fellow posters posts.
4. Please stick to the subject: It’s Kris and his video.

Kris did a great job! Video is unique! Love it!

The art direction and production values are stellar in this video, with excellent use of striking visual images and the interplay of dark and light. The junkyard backdrop, with pale strips of tattered fabric and a gigantic digital clock, is stark and atmospheric, making the message ‘” that life can be grim and barren and you need to make your own light and find your own passion ‘” crystal clear, especially when he walks into the sunrise at the end. Allen totally owns the song with his emotional, committed performance.

Having seen a lot of sets in my day, I would say this one was expensive and labor-intensive. Giant, lighted clocks and scaffolding don’t just build themselves in the middle of the desert.

Loved your review smartcookie!!! I’m just elated to be a Kris fan right now. This is my first time to be over-invested with an Idol. It’s all worth it with Kris. So far,so good Jive. Kudos!!!

The more times I watch it, the more I appreciate it. I love the moodiness of it – it’s a serious message, and the video conveys that. So glad it’s not cheesy & full of rainbows and meadows.

Not surprised LLWD is up to 101. Kris is now selling to new audiences – hooray! Looks like Jive has timed the LLWD roll-out and promo to peak as the album drops – perfect.

Someone asked if the mention of two songs from the cd means they’ll be the follow-up singles, and I would say… It depends. I think “Life on the Moon” was on the sticker on the front of Cook’s cd, and that hasn’t been a single, even though it’s my favorite song. So, anyway, not necessarily.

Re: the two songs mentioned – I’m not so sure I would buy that they’re the next singles. I think Kris would have performed them in Miami if that were the case (he did perform Written All Over My Face) – instead, he highlighted Can’t Stay Away & Before We Come Undone, which seem to be consensus great picks for the next singles.

happygolucky
11/06/2009 at 2:09 pm
The art direction and production values are stellar in this video, with excellent use of striking visual images and the interplay of dark and light. The junkyard backdrop, with pale strips of tattered fabric and a gigantic digital clock, is stark and atmospheric, making the message ‘” that life can be grim and barren and you need to make your own light and find your own passion ‘” crystal clear, especially when he walks into the sunrise at the end. Allen totally owns the song with his emotional, committed performance.

Having seen a lot of sets in my day, I would say this one was expensive and labor-intensive. Giant, lighted clocks and scaffolding don’t just build themselves in the middle of the desert.

Yes, you say it so well. I’m not very articulate, but I totally agree with you!

***While I did not go back and read the posts after 10:30 today, word on the street is that someone’s critique of the video is that Kris is short!!!***

That is too funny. Um…Bono is 5′ 7 1/2, Bob Marley, Paul Simon, and quite a few others are shorter than that!

I think he looks like he’s on the set of 2012

The concept of the video is awesome, and I would expect nothing less from Marco Puig. The video looks very polished, but the setting is very cool and unique. It’s like a set after some kind of zombie invasion and Kris is the only man left standing, and he plus in the digital clock (bomb? LOL) and wowowowow I love this video! Could’ve done with more close-ups of Kris while he was singing – he’s a pretty guy, I mean, ‘cmon. and I wasn’t really digging him on the piano – the song is more guitar-driven so to play the piano seems a bit “huh?”

It definitely reminded me of Snow Patrol’s “Run”

AWESOME VIDEO.

OK. I watched the video earlier and was not impressed. Too much disconnect with the song. After reading pages of comments, I went back and watched it again without the music playing to see if I could “get” the abstract meaning of the setting, etc.

Nope.

I got it. And I love it.

Maybe I’ve seen too many art house films- but I very much like the artistic elements in the video and I think it showcases Kris very well. He is emotive, cute, and sings this song well. I think I must be in minority of the minority. I did not ever think that this was an upbeat song. To me the symbolism is strikingly blunt about not appreciating what you have in your life and how quickly it can disappear.

Some lyrics that stand out to me:

‘Should be so careful who we left out of our lives, and when we long for absolution, there will be no on on the line’  ‘Why do we think we’re right when we’re dead wrong? You never know a good thing ’til it’s gone.’ 

My take on any story here, if there is one, is that a full day has gone by and he did not appreciate what he had in his life, thus the lonely, desolate scene in the desert. Dawn comes the day has been wasted and he hits the microphone in disgust. But maybe there is hope because he faces the dawn of a new day.

I see the Daughtry kinda treatment in this video.
Edgy yet poppy.

I love it!!!

Adding another thought to my post. I am not an expert in music but I thought the key that the main lyrics (not the chorus) was sung was more down-tempo (is that a real term?) which gave it more of a remorseful feeling.

edit: Keep your remarks focused on the subject…and off your fellow posters

I’ve seen more out there videos I’ve never gotten to this day. There are so many stories you can infer from watching this video and that’s why I think it’s pretty cool.

For instance, The set looks like an abandoned flagship station of some sort – think, Waterworld but in the middle of the desert LOL the tattered nature of the set and the industrial feel gives off a sense like it’s an apocalyptic world and Kris is the last man standing – he’s going off into the desert to say, plug in the bomb to destroy the invading zombie army (LOL humor me here). He’s the last man standing, kinda I Am Legend-ish, and he’s realizing for the first time that he wasn’t “living like he was dying”. The ending is beautiful – the sunrise and Kris’s back to the camera – very epic.

I don’t know about you but I like the killer simplicity of this video. Kris is the type of person that draws everyone that watches him.

See if this was The Script singing or someone else, I would have thought they’d go for dying people living their lives to the fullest, but no, this is Kris! The “other version” would be extremely cheesy and tacky and too literal (read: TfM)

beehiway
11/06/2009 at 2:37 pm

Maybe I’ve seen too many art house films- but I very much like the artistic elements in the video and I think it showcases Kris very well. He is emotive, cute, and sings this song well. I think I must be in minority of the minority. I did not ever think that this was an upbeat song. To me the symbolism is strikingly blunt about not appreciating what you have in your life and how quickly it can disappear.

Some lyrics that stand out to me:

‘Should be so careful who we left out of our lives, and when we long for absolution, there will be no on on the line’  ‘Why do we think we’re right when we’re dead wrong? You never know a good thing ’til it’s gone.’ 

My take on any story here, if there is one, is that a full day has gone by and he did not appreciate what he had in his life, thus the lonely, desolate scene in the desert. Dawn comes the day has been wasted and he hits the microphone in disgust. But maybe there is hope because he faces the dawn of a new day.

I love that take, sounds pretty good.

Love the colors (esp. the first scene and the dark blue sky in the background in some shots), the lightings, the mood, pretty much the whole setup! Very artistic!!! This vid surely makes LLWD sounds even better to my ears. Thank you Kris and everyone involved in this production!

Oh, also to the person who said that the piano part in the video does not sync with the music – it does. watch the video again (I have, zillions of times already LOL) you can hear the piano. I agree that they probably should have stayed with Kris on the guitar, because the song is much more guitar-driven, than piano, but it shows off his versatility, nothing wrong with that. Also, the shot of the piano in front of the digital clock was really cool.

Loved the intro, loved the ending, everything in between was just a whole lot of pretty Kris in a cool-concept video

Ohhh and one more thing… The hallogen digital clock and the piano in front of him… Where have I seen that before? Oh yeah! The Fray!!

Seeing I love both The Fray and Kris I FAKKEN LOVED IT!

Great design and those little clothe sheets that drape and fly… Coolness.

Great video overall.

. . . the message ‘” that life can be grim and barren and you need to make your own light and find your own passion . . .

Yes! Thanks, smartcookie!

This is not a cheerful song, and it shouldn’t have a cheerful video. The visuals are stark and beautiful, but not so obtrusive that they distract from the lyrics.

This song isn’t about enjoying life. It’s about focusing on what is really important in life, while dealing with disappointments. There’s a cold, steely resolve in it. That comes through in Kris’s performance in the video, and in the harshness of the setting.

aww!! i watched the video and i really enjoyed it!! it’s simple but its very Kris. I was never that big of a fan of the song or Kris for that matter but this video makes me enjoy the song so much more! and it makes me like Kris a lot more too loll

To be honest, I was actually expecting something happier, but when you think about it, this was a perfect spin to a video that could have turned out as cheesy. Imagine, there could have been images of crying mothers and daughters hugging themselves because they “gotta live like we’re dying”, or scenes of people saving other people – ugh just the thought of what this video COULD have been interpreted into makes me cringe.

I like that Kris had a vision of what he wanted to do and he wouldn’t settle for something random and cheap. The end of the world-feel of the video isn’t too over the top and Kris is singing with conviction and it doesn’t look cheesy. I do wish there were more parts of him playing the guitar vs the piano, but that’s only because I think the song is more guitar-driven than piano-based, although there is piano in some parts.

Overall, my favorite Idol video so far. It’s simple, but not too simple. It’s got a good concept, nice performance video, it looks stylized but with no CGI or over the top editing. The lighting is amazing. A++++ Jive and Kris and Marco Puig!

Don’t think this vid did Kris justice. Shouldn’t have been so many wide shots that emphasized his height. And erratic editing with guitar, piano, and that darn mic popping up every now and then. Should have kept it simpler without the end-of-the-world background, concentrating more on his handsome face and empathy with the viewer.

loooooooovvvveeee itttttt

I think I must be in minority of the minority. I did not ever think that this was an upbeat song. To me the symbolism is strikingly blunt about not appreciating what you have in your life and how quickly it can disappear.

Some lyrics that stand out to me:

‘Should be so careful who we left out of our lives, and when we long for absolution, there will be no on on the line’  ‘Why do we think we’re right when we’re dead wrong? You never know a good thing ’til it’s gone.’ 

“And we’re all staring down the barrel of a gun” is another one

As for the piano, it’s actually my favorite part of the whole thing. I have no reason for it, it jus looks right, to me. And there’s no reason to suppose Kris might not some day play piano on this song, if he happens to be in a concert setting.

I agree star

Imagine, there could have been images of crying mothers and daughters hugging themselves because they ‘gotta live like we’re dying’ , or scenes of people saving other people ‘“ ugh just the thought of what this video COULD have been interpreted into makes me cringe.

Remember John Mayer’s Say what you need to say and how they used it for a Hallmark cards commercial? NOW I HAAAATE That song. They made the song tooo literal..

I like how Jive did it this way… I no longer believe Jive is sabotaging Kris. El Oh El

Update: I had to watch the video like 5 times to really watch it and not stare at Kris the whole time. LOL

I was gonna pretend to like the video even if it sucked and I’m so happy I don’t have to! It’s GREAT! Love the clock thing, and Kris w/the flare, and the sunrise’ ¦love it.

LOL! I know, right? I love that I didn’t have to search for something that was “nice” on the video and then put a good spin on it. I haven’t had to do that with Kris at all.

Ross He was short yesterday, he will be short tomorrow. He will never grow any bigger.

Only Hotter!

wooo hooo! nice start to my 26th birthday’ ¦.thank you Jive for putting this out today’ ¦

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SARAHP!!!!!!

Hmmm….definitely not anything I expected when I visualized Kris’ video. It’s actually better than I thought it would be. I really like the concept of Kris actually working against a clock…giving the lyrics even more meaning. It’s also interesting that there are no actors in the video and that it’s just him, his instruments and his mic…

ross
11/06/2009 at 2:55 pm

I think I must be in minority of the minority. I did not ever think that this was an upbeat song. To me the symbolism is strikingly blunt about not appreciating what you have in your life and how quickly it can disappear.

Some lyrics that stand out to me:

‘Should be so careful who we left out of our lives, and when we long for absolution, there will be no on on the line’  ‘Why do we think we’re right when we’re dead wrong? You never know a good thing ’til it’s gone.’ 

‘And we’re all staring down the barrel of a gun’  is another one

Right and there’s a bit more of that with planes falling etc. I just tried to include the more subtle symbolism in my post.

Yeah, honestly before the video was shot I was convinced Jive would try to screw Kris somehow by giving him a cheesy video, but this is exceeded my expectations. It doesn’t look like it was shot by an amateur, Kris looks amazingly sexy (hello, Henley, we’ve missed you!) and the song takes on a whole new perspective.

the more i see it the more i like it
I like when he activates the clock and every time the lyrics is about time there are cool shoot of this big LED clock

I was gonna pretend to like the video even if it sucked

Well, I’m not going to pretend to like it. It did suck. God. Kris’ strainy singing gives me enough of a headache without having to watch him look like he’s giving himself a hernia trying to hit the high notes. Plus, I still can’t understand 99% of what he’s singing, even with visuals. Enunciate, boy. ENUNCIATE.

And since we’re talking about Kris, what in the holy HELL was that picture in Elle Mag with the wings? Did the art director hate him? That picture rivals Michelon Man for most ridiculous Idol picture ever.

edit: somebody is ignoring my mod posts. not a good idea.

Excuse moi but isn’t nearly everybody praising and liking Kris for the way he enunciates? I mean Kris isn’t a power belter but his voice is recognizable because of the way he CLEARLY says his words

Excuse moi but isn’t nearly everybody praising and liking Kris for the way he enunciates? I mean Kris isn’t a power belter but his voice is recognizable because of the way he CLEARLY says his words

EXACTLY!!

oupss seems i have missed Kris with the wings on Elle. where is my little angel?

“And since we’re talking about Kris, what in the holy HELL was that picture in Elle Mag with the wings? Did the art director hate him? That picture rivals Michelon Man for most ridiculous Idol picture ever.”

I want to see my little angel too. I must have missed that pic. Where is it???

Two words (Kara style): WONDER FULL!

I don’t keep up with the rock video world, but this is a smashing piece of work — creative, mythic, surprising, vivid. The camera adores Kris, as we all know, and here it really captures his musical passion.

And the lighting, the set, the camera work — SUPERB.

I love the song too, more and more. It really grooves, and it really means something.

BRAVO

I just tried to include the more subtle symbolism in my post.

Yeah, well, you said the symbolism was “strikingly blunt” also, so I immediately thought of the line about staring down the barrel of a gun.
It’s not a very original line, it’s just incredibly blunt, to me, at that point in the song.

Taking that one step further, it would be wrong, not to say ridiculous, to have any kind of lighthearted feel to a video of this song. “We’re all staring down the barrel of a gun” says it all to me. You have to be true to the song.

The video is not, to my way of thinking, depressing, in any way. It’s just not lighthearted. It’s serious, befitting the lyrics of the song. I like that it’s serious. I’m sure Kris will make lighthearted videos when he sings lighthearted songs in those videos.

It’s also sexy, because not only is he sexy in his moves and his looks, but because of his convictions. That’s a different kind of sexy that’s very cool, imho.

It’s a “thinking man’s/woman’s heart-throb” kind of thing.

you should be able to see a pic of the wings here.

ooh, Ross, love it when you talk sexy.

For me the word is SENSUOUS, and it really is…….

Jeez, can no one recognize a fake photo when they see one? That’s so obviously fake it’s not even funny. I laugh at anyone who actually thinks that’s real.

Jeez, can no one recognize a fake photo when they see one? That’s so obviously fake it’s not even funny. I laugh at anyone who actually thinks that’s real.

I’ve talked to peeps who have seen the full color glossies. That’s the pic. It’s for real.

The last “real” video outside of IDOL that I was moved to purchase was TI’s DEAD AND GONE. I found it compelling, visually stunning, just out and out moving. The stark desert scene, the crossroads, subtle, simple, but captivating. Desolate, but intense. I feel the same way about Kris’s video. It’s that powerful to me. This is ART. I can’t begin to tell you how over the moon I am about this video. Kris knows what he wants and he knows what he’s doing.

Thanks mimi! Wow quite a picture and makes me laugh as I was imaging white wings and they turn out to be black wings. Sure is a surprise outfit esp. those high heel boots for Kris but it’s nothing compared to Adam’s Michelon man outfit for sure. Adam had that one beat for years to come!

ross
11/06/2009 at 3:15 pm

I just tried to include the more subtle symbolism in my post.

Yeah, well, you said the symbolism was ‘strikingly blunt’  also, so I immediately thought of the line about staring down the barrel of a gun.
It’s not a very original line, it’s just incredibly blunt, to me, at that point in the song.

Taking that one step further, it would be wrong, not to say ridiculous, to have any kind of lighthearted feel to a video of this song. ‘We’re all staring down the barrel of a gun’  says it all to me. You have to be true to the song.

The video is not, to my way of thinking, depressing, in any way. It’s just not lighthearted. It’s serious, befitting the lyrics of the song. I like that it’s serious. I’m sure Kris will make lighthearted videos when he sings lighthearted songs in those videos.

It’s also sexy, because not only is he sexy in his moves and his looks, but because of his convictions. That’s a different kind of sexy that’s very cool, imho.

It’s a ‘thinking man’s/woman’s heart-throb’  kind of thing.

THIS. I love this post. Well said!

It’s also sexy, because not only is he sexy in his moves and his looks, but because of his convictions. That’s a different kind of sexy that’s very cool, imho.

Completely agree, Ross. I’m so glad they didn’t go with the easy and most predictable approach. I was soo dreading that they might focus too much on Kris’s “Sweet Small Town Boy” appeal and endup making a very “country” sorta video – Too feel goody or too in ur face preachy.
I love that this video is dark and edgey and soo slick!
OMG he looks so smooth, cool, beautiful and SEXY!

@Starr …but it’s just getting harder and harder to breathe!

Oh, the angel pic. It’s hilarious, imo, like Kris got into Adam’s wardrobe rack and played dress-up

Reminder:

Ignore my modding at your own peril.

I’ve talked to peeps who have seen the full color glossies. That’s the pic. It’s for real.

LOL.

Mild mannered singer by day…the Black Crow by night!
Watch as he swoops in to save the world from his arch nemesis, The Michelin Man! One kick from his silver boots will deflate any tire. Remember kiddies, you can always reduce your carbon footprint by growing wings!

ross
11/06/2009 at 3:15 pm

I just tried to include the more subtle symbolism in my post.

Yeah, well, you said the symbolism was ‘strikingly blunt’  also, so I immediately thought of the line about staring down the barrel of a gun.
It’s not a very original line, it’s just incredibly blunt, to me, at that point in the song.

You are correct, I was ambiguous and contradicted myself. i just liked those lyrics in particular.

Taking that one step further, it would be wrong, not to say ridiculous, to have any kind of lighthearted feel to a video of this song. ‘We’re all staring down the barrel of a gun’  says it all to me. You have to be true to the song.

ITA

I’d love to see Kris in wings and boots, but I hope the photog took a better pic than this. Doesn’t look like one that should make the magazine. Kris doesn’t quite look ready in that shot, not well-executed. I just subscribed to ELLE through a fundraiser for Brownies. Is it going to be in the December issue? I hope I get it via mail.

The intro of the video was good, I like the set up, the flare, the sunrise.

Kris needs to continue working at his music video acting.

I like the concept of him playing guitar and piano in the video but since I’m not in love with the song arrangement it’s hard to totally embrace the video. It bugs me there’s no drummer anywhere to be found. Absence of instrument performers is something that doesn’t normally annoy me in videos but it does here and I put that down to the song arrangement.

Mostly I’m encouraged by the video not being green screen ridiculousness. I feared the worst for Kris.

Kirsten :
“LOL.

Mild mannered singer by day’ ¦the Black Crow by night. Watch as he swoops in to save the world from his arch nemesis, The Michelin Man! One kick from his silver boots will deflate any tire. Remember kiddies, you can always reduce your carbon footprint by growing wings!”

LMAO again!!!

eh, i’m still not buyin’ it until I see it on their website or in the mag. You search their website and there are no references to Kris Allen except from the style pages during their AI season style reviews.

It looks ‘shopped to me, and if it is real, it’s a dreadful picture for such a quality magazine.

Nope, need more proof.

Michelle :
“Oh, the angel pic. It’s hilarious, imo, like Kris got into Adam’s wardrobe rack and played dress-up ”

That must be it!

ooh, Ross, love it when you talk sexy.

lol, cookcricket!

Well, now that I’ve seen that picture I guess I’ll have to take back my whole post!

Well, seriously, it’s a great representation of the song and of Kris, this video.

thanks mimi for the link

ROFL… i was so not expecting this!! it’s quite a fun photo though and the imagery is quite fun…. Kris the dark angel who managed to win over Adam. Like they say… a picture worths a 1,000 words…

ok. got to watch the video again

It’s for real that picture. I love my Kris but that photo with him in wings, are so not Kris at all.

Doesn’t look like one that should make the magazine. Kris doesn’t quite look ready in that shot, not well-executed.

He’s saying “Seriously, I don’t think I should fly too close to the sun while wearing these.”

Either that, or “I don’t care if Claire Danes wore these in a movie. These wings just don’t go with these boots. Even I know that.”

Mild mannered singer by day’ ¦the Black Crow by night!
Watch as he swoops in to save the world from his arch nemesis, The Michelin Man! One kick from his silver boots will deflate any tire. Remember kiddies, you can always reduce your carbon footprint by growing wings!

Kirsten, you’re hilarious.

I got to see a bigger picture though. Seems to me they had Kris looks soo young on that picture and that accentuates the dichotomy that is expressed

whoa now this is what I’m talking about… yum.

hmm didn’t let me post the link to my comment… here it is– enjoy

I’m not loving those Elle pictures – any of them, really. From all the hype about the “makeovers” for all 3, I was expecting a lot more creativity and imagination. I’m having a hard time differentiating the “makeovers” from any of the other photo shoots I’ve seen, the angel shot of Kris notwithstanding. That just seemed silly – they could have done something really amazing with the concept, but to me it looks like they just threw the wings/boots on him as a last minute thought, not something that was actually planned. No matter.

Still amazed at the video – that an Idol video actually looks like this stylistically and artistically. I’m so stoked. When can we buy it?

Sorry mj! I’ll be nice, I promise.

Can someone give me a link to the Elle photos?

Also, if this has been posted already, I apologize, but here is Slezak’s take on the video: http://music-mix.ew.com/2009/11/06/kris-allen-live-like-were-dying-video/comment-page-4/#comment-60247

Well, now that I’ve seen that picture I guess I’ll have to take back my whole post!

yea me too

hope this works– having difficulty getting links posted

So I suppose all white shirts, well fitted vests, trousers, formal leather shoes now exclusively belong to Adam now…. Though I distinctly remember, Kris wearing all these things (sans leather shoes) on AI.

Eileen99
11/06/2009 at 3:41 pm
I’m not loving those Elle pictures ‘“ any of them, really. From all the hype about the ‘makeovers’  for all 3, I was expecting a lot more creativity and imagination. I’m having a hard time differentiating the ‘makeovers’  from any of the other photo shoots I’ve seen, the angel shot of Kris notwithstanding. That just seemed silly ‘“ they could have done something really amazing with the concept, but to me it looks like they just threw the wings/boots on him as a last minute thought, not something that was actually planned. No matter.

Still amazed at the video ‘“ that an Idol video actually looks like this stylistically and artistically. I’m so stoked. When can we buy it?

I’m with you on this. Love the video…I actually like the song now, whereas before I didn’t so much.

Those photos… just no. Not what I expected at all. I feel very let down.
Kris’ photo shoot pics were much better. (Plus I don’t like the ones of Adam or Allison too much either….maybe there are more?)

I’ve watched it a few more times and love it even more with each viewing.

Agree on the 15 minutes of fame and making the most of every second of it. Nicely done.

Eh, the Elle pics aren’t such a big deal. When I saw the original leaked photos I didn’t think they were all that flattering, and I still don’t — Kris’s “makeover” is okay, I like his hair in that — but I also like him in the plaid shirt and jeans. He looks like he just came in, after fixing the roof. “‘Scuse me, ma’am? I wonder if I could have a glass of water?” “Sure, why don’t you take off that hot shirt and relax a while?”
“Thanks, don’t mind if I do.”

…but that’s a different video.

The wings pic is tiny. It works within the layout. The whole photoshoot looks kind of cheap, though. I thought last year’s was great. They even managed to make Archie look sexy.

Ok, based on the text of the article I see now that it is a real photo, but it’s still “‘shopped” in the sense that the wings I think are drawn on after the fact to illustrate a point by the author. Not sure about the boots.

So yes, real but fake, and meant to make him look silly and “fish out of water”.

I’m pretty sure the angel pic was meant tongue-in-cheek

Here’s a clear scan of Kris’ “makeover”:
http://i33.tinypic.com/2hgwxns.jpg

Personally I think the more casual pics we got the other day (green tee, Fuller’s office) win out over these.

Soooo, due the the nature of the economy and the sorry state of print media, Elle has fired all of their art people, I guess? ‘Cause those pictures are hella stupid.

Thanks mimi for the link. It’s certainly helpful to have the context available for the wings picture.

I’m not loving those Elle pictures either. They unkris him with too much makeup. Well at least now I don’t have to spend money on that magazine.

Yeah, I think the angel pics were meant to convey that Kris doesn’t feel comfortable in an attire like that – it isn’t him at all. So given the reaction to it, it seems like it achieved its purpose.

Well, those pics certainly stole focus from the video coming out today.

I’ve watched it a few more times and love it even more with each viewing.

Same here. The more I watch, the more I see the artistic brilliance of the director. The production quality would make this the best idol debut music video so far. I hope there will be a mv to go with every song on his album!

Ok, based on the text of the article I see now that it is a real photo, but it’s still ”shopped’  in the sense that the wings I think are drawn on after the fact to illustrate a point by the author. Not sure about the boots.

So yes, real but fake, and meant to make him look silly and ‘fish out of water’ .

Pretty sure Allison tweeted or was quoted about the Kris + wings + Adam’s boots after the photoshoot.

The link mimi provided shows the article with the photo and puts it in context — basically — you can’t just throw someone else’s wardrobe on — your style needs to be grown from who you are.

@ross: I don’t think it really takes anything away from the video. I still have a high from the video! Anyone have any idea when it will become available on iTunes?

Positive review of Kris album from Howard Cohen of the Miami Herald — (a guy who absolutely hated the fact that Kris won AI over Adam and wasn’t impressed by Kris on tour).

Good to see he overcame his personal feelings about the AI outcome and gave Kris’ album an open-minded listen.

http://miamiherald.typepad.com/idol_watch/2009/11/review-kris-allen-the-kids-alright.html?storylink=twt

Positive review of Kris album from Howard Cohen of the Miami Herald ‘” (a guy who absolutely hated the fact that Kris won AI over Adam and wasn’t impressed by Kris on tour).

Good to see he overcame his personal feelings about the AI outcome and gave Kris’ album an open-minded listen.

He did say some remarkably positive things, considering it’s Howard Cohen. Of course he had to preface them with a lot of negative things, but that’s Howard Cohen.

Positive review of Kris album from Howard Cohen of the Miami Herald ‘” (a guy who absolutely hated the fact that Kris won AI over Adam and wasn’t impressed by Kris on tour).

Awesome!

Positive review of Kris album from Howard Cohen of the Miami Herald ‘” (a guy who absolutely hated the fact that Kris won AI over Adam and wasn’t impressed by Kris on tour).

That guy is always such a bitter fangirl that that review is equivalent to him giving Kris a Grammy. When Howard hates you and you can still get him to praise someting on your album, you’ve got to be doing something right.

Wow, surprisingly great review from the Miami guy. Still, he can’t help himself with the slams, but I’ll take the review. Wouldn’t want to be that guy’s puppy, though.

Thanks girlygirl for that review link. Luckily you mentioned “Positive review” otherwise I don’t think I’ll read past the first few paragraphs.

Yeah when I first started reading the review I was so thinking my god this is going to be awful,but-turn out alot better then I thought it would be. I’ll take it too.

Really? That was a great review? I wanted to reach inside the monitor and strangle this guy as I was reading it. He is so snarky and condescending. I don’t mind if people don’t care for Kris’s voice or don’t find he has a magnetic personality, but to go out of your way to nitpick and compare is weird. Whatever happened to just being able to write an entire article on the guy you’re covering without feeling the need to constantly insert your snide comments in there?

I hate this guy. But if you guys think his article was less scathing than it came off to me, I guess I’m the only one LOL

So, I’m just gonna ignore talking about the pictures.

I love the video! And I didn’t really think the song was that great before but it’s growing on me now that I’ve seen the video.

I hate this guy. But if you guys think his article was less scathing than it came off to me, I guess I’m the only one LOL

We’ve read his previous reviews of Idols he hated. Believe me, this is practically sunshine and rainbows for this dude. You have to consider the source.

He’s like an unrepentent Mr. Darcy. His opinion once lost is lost forever.

Starr, don’t bother getting upset with someone like Howard Cohen as it’s not worth it. In my view, someone like him will live a life with a lot of bitterness. If he is still bitter over Kris’ win over Adam at this point, I can’t imagine how many more other things he bitters about throughout of his life. The punishment for someone like that is a unhappy life… So I feel sorry for him… Hope this makes sense to you.

Kirsten
11/06/2009 at 4:29 pm

We’ve read his previous reviews of Idols he hated. Believe me, this is practically sunshine and rainbows for this dude. You have to consider the source.

Well that’s good to know, I guess.

On another note, I think that if Kris came out with a slower song for a next single, the music video will give us more money shots. LLWD is a fast song, and I couldn’t get enough shots of Kris’s face Thank goodness they did a wide shot of him in the Henley, though – he really owns those things. He should come out and model for the Henley. Those things fit him like a GLOVE.

This video is just so boring.

I’m not saying Kris is boring– but this video is, IMO. With words like “live like we’re dying” they could have played around a bit with more interesting visuals and themes. Made it something universal. Isn’t the meaning of the song worthy of some deeper visual interpretation?

Instead we get Kris bopping. Bopping with mic stand, bopping with guitar, bopping with piano.

A+ for the P&P reference, Kirsten.

For those smarter than me: When do you suppose we can buy this?

The Elle thing is only disappointing because last year’s were brill and this year’s suck the big wazoo. Illustration #1 of why and how print media is in the toilet.

Meanwhile, back to the video. It totally IS brill and I am really enjoying getting to see it. No clue how much video impacts sales these days (if at all) but it’s still got to be a kick for an artist to get to see his first video.

elle’s makover is so-so, not enough him… but the Dior boots are to die for. Kris, wear those boots + sexy jeans and black t-shirt (= win)

Instead we get Kris bopping. Bopping with mic stand, bopping with guitar, bopping with piano.

LOVE BOPPING KRIS… lolll …squeee

I love that Kris put his foot down with this music video and he really wanted it to be special, but nothing contrived. I was surprised that he said that he received tons of ideas about the video concept but no one “got it”. I’m assuming people probably wanted him to go the traditional route and interpret the song literally – i.e. couples making out because it’s the end of the world, superheroes saving cats in trees, I-feel-empowered-OMG vibes…

So I am very happy he had a concept of what he wanted to do and it was realized by Marco Puig. Puig’s got some style – this video reflects his own aesthetic too. One thing I was kinda puzzled about…There is this shot in the middle of the song right before the bridge where Kris is off the set and his face is dimly-lit and he’s staring at a light or something – what is that? I can’t really see very well, I’m not sure if I’m missing something here or if he really is just staring at the light. Is it sort of him waiting for the sunrise?

With words like ‘live like we’re dying’  they could have played around a bit with more interesting visuals and themes. Made it something universal. Isn’t the meaning of the song worthy of some deeper visual interpretation?

oh, god no. thankfully they kept it simple, slightly melancholy, beautifully shot and focused on one theme : the clock. im a quality vs quantity kinda girl. i don’t need various images bombasted at my screen to get the point. subtly works for me, especially in music.

adamaloha
11/06/2009 at 4:36 pm

This video is just so boring.

I’m not saying Kris is boring’“ but this video is, IMO. With words like ‘live like we’re dying’  they could have played around a bit with more interesting visuals and themes. Made it something universal. Isn’t the meaning of the song worthy of some deeper visual interpretation?

Instead we get Kris bopping. Bopping with mic stand, bopping with guitar, bopping with piano.

I think it all depends on your personal preference. I don’t like flashy videos, so this fits my personal aesthetic. This video, to me, just has the right amount of pizazz and lighting, without coming off as trying too hard. The parts where Kris is performing, sure, maybe there are one too many shots of him bopping on the piano, but that’s the way he really is when he performs his music, so it’s an accurate depiction of the artist.

Please don’t question the motives of posters or put words in their mouths

Maybe Elle should stop focusing on its reality tv appearances (CW Fashionista and MTV’s The City)….and get back to creating/discussing fashion. The pics, makeover are a bit amateurish.

LOVE BOPPING KRIS’ ¦ lolll ‘ ¦squeee

I’ll second that. Regarding the review from the Miami Herald, I will take your word for it that it is good because the dude is a total d-bag throughout the whole thing. Towards the end he said something like Kris Allen beats the “weakest” previous Idol winners– so not sure that is a ringing endorsement– but I thought it was interesting that he included Cook with Rueben and Taylor. First time following all this stuff so I don’t know anything about these albums at all and whether his assessment is accurate.

Where are the pictures everyone is referencing? I haven’t had time to play here today.

Seriously, I am tired of seeing Kris wear chucks or tennis shoes all the time!!! I have no clue, but do other musicians (i.e., rock stars??) wear chucks?! I guess I’m the only one, but I’d love to see him with boots!

Seriously, I am tired of seeing Kris wear chucks or tennis shoes all the time!!! I have no clue, but do other musicians (i.e., rock stars??) wear chucks?! I guess I’m the only one, but I’d love to see him with boots!

certain type of musicians or guys wear them….i was at a film production party last night (studio owned by kate bekinsale’s hubby). 50% of the guys had them on, including her hubby (from what i recall). its in fashion.

I thought the wings + platforms pic complete with shit-eating grin were hilarious. Also there is a rumor from Be Gay Little Bird that it was Kris’s idea to try those things on. And when I read that the stylist was using the photo to make a point and not trying to be serious well it makes a lot more sense.

As for the serious photos, I personally like his street clothes the best. Kris is the most attractive IMO when he’s not purposely trying to do a “sexyface”.

Liked the comments about the video. I think the most important thing is the fact that it’s all about Kris. Kris is just starting out so it’s good that the video focuses heavily on letting you know what Kris is all about (guitar playing, piano playing, etc.)

Chucks are comfy, and they go with everything. I have so many pairs of Chucks in every color, it’s not even funny. I don’t blame Kris for preferring comfort over style.

Was this posted? MTV put up a really positive review of Kris’ video: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1625756/20091106/allen_kris_american_idol_.jhtml

wand3rful, I have a FB friend who is in the entertainment industry. Hmmmm….. Sounds like an exciting career you have!! Thanks for the info. I don’t pay a lot of attention to stuff like that. I just know that Archie always wore chucks and Cook wore boots. Cook was way cooler (IMO), so I was hoping Kris would ditch the chucks for a more matture look. Shows what this mom knows!! haha

FYI the MTV review is up: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1625756/20091106/allen_kris_american_idol_.jhtml?rsspartner=rssMozilla

This is my favorite line:

Of course, it doesn’t hurt that the song is Ebola catchy, either. Or that Allen is so incredibly likable that he seems to transcend fame, or at least seem unaffected by it. He’s a good-looking, really nice kid. He can sing a bit. His video has a clock in it. It’s not rocket science, after all ‘” it’s pop music.

Starr I noticed that too. It’s interesting to see the different takes on the video and how it makes people feel. Some people are like “Whee! Kris is cute, that clock is cool looking, yay sunrise!” and other reviewers watch the video and then analyze the lyrics. Both reactions are fine with me.

Thanks smallie. I had not seen it. I like this part:

And while Allen’s debut video isn’t as flashy-dashy as “Idol” compatriot Adam Lambert’s “Time for Miracles,” it’s just as good ‘” mostly because, rather than rely on fiery explosions, “Dying” plays it straight, showcasing Allen and his talents. It’s a bold move, indeed ‘” Allen has never been known as “the flashy one” ‘” but the folks at Jive Records are betting that his personality is all folks need to see.

Well, I think that this video is a smart move for several reasons:

1. It will please diehard Kris fans who want nothing more than seeing their boy do his thing in ANY music video LOL Kris could be swimming in a pool of hot fudge and I’m sure his fans would go bananas.

Hmm.. on second thought, I’m not sure I really wanna share that visual (since it was my dream from last night) but moving on…:D

2. This is a performance video, reminding non-Idol watchers that Kris is a musician, not just a singer. It will attract fans who aren’t into pop music as much, but will also keep the fans interested because, well, Kris is strumming his guitar and looks really happy doing so.

3. Kris looks YUMMY. As Michael Slezak so eloquently put it before: Kris has skin akin to a freshly-opened Dannon yogurt container. His make-up is minimal but still makes him look fresh and clean, and his wardrobe is A+ just from the Henley. He should really put out an ad, seriously. No one wears Henleys like he does.

4. The concept will appeal to the artsy fartsy. I admit I’m one of those people who likes high-concept videos, so I was very pleased at the non-literal take on the song. The choice location was superb, the idea to film the video at night was clever and contributed a lotl to the overall atmosphere of the video, and the set looked great. The last shot of Kris with his back turned to the camera and the sunrise before him was absolutely stunning! I want it as my desktop background for my computer!

cilady
11/06/2009 at 5:10 pm
Starr I noticed that too. It’s interesting to see the different takes on the video and how it makes people feel. Some people are like ‘Whee! Kris is cute, that clock is cool looking, yay sunrise!’  and other reviewers watch the video and then analyze the lyrics. Both reactions are fine with me.

And with me as well. After all, who takes this stuff uber seriously? It’s all in fun.

I really liked this video and it put a whole different vibe and mood to this song. For me, the song was “ok” and dull as far as Kris’s interpretation and voice. But, this video, makes this song so much better. And I like that!
My opinion is that the song was not selling, and Jive needed a “grand” video to help this song, to perk it up! And that was achieved IMO.
Kris’s song is ok, but the video I love!! This seems like a very smart move on part of Jive.
Love the video!

The name lighting up at the beginning was more than a bit cheesy.

That was a lot of ideas with very little cohesion. The writer and editor in me is really confused. It seems like they started out with an good idea, and then abandoned it because they couldn’t get the footage in time. Two day shoots are your friend. Really.

Still, it was very lush, and nobody pays much attention to videos these days, so no bother. The director already has plenty of brilliance under his belt that one semi-dud won’t hurt him.

ETA: That’s a timer, not a clock. I don’t understand why people are making that mistake here.

Positive review of Kris album from Howard Cohen of the Miami Herald ‘” (a guy who absolutely hated the fact that Kris won AI over Adam and wasn’t impressed by Kris on tour).

Good to see he overcame his personal feelings about the AI outcome and gave Kris’ album an open-minded listen.

http://miamiherald.typepad.com/idol_watch/2009/11/review-kris-allen-the-kids-alright.html?storylink=twt

agree with you girlygirl. Given the context, this is quite a good review!!

“That was a lot of ideas with very little cohesion. The writer and editor in me is really confused.” — erinthered

The writer in me disagrees. It’s a fairly simplistic concept, but overall dramatic. This is a brilliant video as far as I’m concerned. Perhaps Kris should have run around naked like the dude in another one of Puig’s desert videos. I’m sure most here would love it. LOL

I will agree the name lighting up was interesting, but far from cheesy. People are probably making that “mistake” because Kris mentioned a clock and the song is about time. My digital clocks have timers on them. I love the “feel” of the video. I don’t think most people care whether it is a clock or a timer. lol

Clock/Timer: that really doesn’t matter in the big picture, IMO. When I saw it, the first thing that came to my mind was a Doomsday Counter/Clock – which is not a timer, but still that was what the scene brought to mind.

I also think that this could have been a very laborious video if they had tried to dwell too much on the concept, so I like that they put their editing hand in and decided not to make it so contrived. I think the video tells the story, but it’s like you’re starting in the middle. As the viewer, you’re left to imagine how it starts and where Kris is coming from (what led to him realizing he’s gotta “live like we’re dying”), and then the video ends kind of like a cliffhanger – what happens when the timer ends?

Here’s MTV’s VIDEO review of Kris’s video!

http://www.mtv.com/videos/news/454017/kris-allens-live-like-were-dying-the-review.jhtml

“This song is going to be a gigantic smash hit.” (James Montgomery, MTV)

YAY Kris!!

That was a lot of ideas with very little cohesion. The writer and editor in me is really confused. It seems like they started out with an good idea, and then abandoned it because they couldn’t get the footage in time. Two day shoots are your friend. Really.

The writer in me agrees, but I don’t think it was a time issue. I think they simply forgot what the “big idea” was. When I write a piece, I have one sentence at the top of the page to remind me to FOCUS on my original idea. It is so easy to veer off on a tangent. In this video, it seems to me like they lost focus.

I can’t believe that I went back and read all 378 comments (at the time of my posting) LOL. I’d already watched the video and made up my own mind before reading the other opinions.

In my totally biased view of a Kris fan, it’s terrific. I am truly so happy that it does not have puppies, babies, rainbows and beach scenes! That would have most certainly brought out cries (and rightfully so) of CHEESE and boring!

This video has a wonderful edge and symbolism. As I read through the comments, I am so happy that it has many interpretations and reactions from so many people. Isn’t that what art does? It allows individuals to see something through their own set of values and perceptions. The really terrific thing is that we are all correct! I am absolutely correct that I love this. Others are absolutely correct that they do not.

Well done, Kris, Mr. Puig and all the others making this wonderful video!

Upon second look, I still like it as much as I did this morning. It looks good, Kris looks good, he sounds good, you know it’s him. It’s all good. It’s just a pop music video. It’s not meant to be a masterpiece on film.

jersey, good thoughts. It’s just a music video…that I happen to like a LOT (Jim Carey intonation).

mzbet, WOW is all I can say. I wanted to read them all but had too much going on today. I think if people would be honest they would have to say this video is pretty dang good. Some of the fans *ahem* you’re just not gonna please.

I didn’t say calling it a clock or a timer mattered, I said it’s not a clock. It’s a timer. Period. I’m surprised the press release didn’t state it that way since it makes more sense with the lyrics. Not trying to create wank, just making an observation.

As far as the “story” of the video, I’m not going to get into it. IMHO, though, it wasn’t cohesive. YMMV, as always. No biggie.

There is this shot in the middle of the song right before the bridge where Kris is off the set and his face is dimly-lit and he’s staring at a light or something ‘“ what is that? I can’t really see very well, I’m not sure if I’m missing something here or if he really is just staring at the light. Is it sort of him waiting for the sunrise?

Starr, I noticed this too and wondered about it. He drove up in one car, but there is a second car there in this shot as well as at the end…not sure. Did you see where I said kudos on calling the sunrise?

cookcricket, I thought that was kinda the turning point…at that point he decides to live his life? I’m not good at interpretation, so don’t laugh at me. :laugh:

I LOVE Kris’s video!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Bravo Kris! He is so adorable and what a good looking guy!

FINALLY!!! I was at work all day and could not view the video and was only able to see the comments here. Based on the comments I was a little worried about how the video looked. LOL.. I had absolutely no reason to worry. Kris’s video is awesome!! I love that it is not rainbows and puppies. I agree with whoever said that would be cheesy. Once again Kris surprises me with his choice in a completely awesome way. I guess I have a different way of looking at things compared to other people. I don’t analyze every single detail, try to match everything up, or look for the flaws. I just watch a video for the entertainment value, if I like it, I watch it again. If I don’t then I never view it again. This will be a video that I will be purchasing and watching often. As some one else said, it’s not that deep. LOL..

Today is a great day to be a Kris Allen fan and I can’t wait for all of the great things that will be happening over the next couple of weeks.

Here’s MTV’s VIDEO review of Kris’s video!

http://www.mtv.com/videos/news/454017/kris-allens-live-like-were-dying-the-review.jhtml

‘This song is going to be a gigantic smash hit.’  (James Montgomery, MTV)

They really liked it!!! I hope James Montgomery is right!!
.. they were not very nice with Danny at the end which I don’t like (not that i’m a Danny fan but I wouldn’t have like it for anyone)

I love the video! Well done. I think this should help bump up those sales for LLWD.

Back from RL and still loving this video. It makes me long for the old MTV. Couple of things — The name at beginning, lit up on the “timer” is very cool, IMO; it tells us immediately who this artist is (new to many people), and it also, in a more metaphoric way, says, this is the timer of this person’s life — it’s just his, not my life, not yours, you know? I also want to agree with the people who were holding their breath waiting for this and hoping for awsomeness and no cheese. I really was worried, that it would suck, that I would have to look for reasons to like it, etc. Yay. I love it and I don’t have to find reasons, I just do.

DMR, LOL, that was adorable!

Cookcricket, Starr (ppl who brought up the sunrise) I just wish that, if only for a second, the camera had followed up to Kris’s face when he’s watching the sunrise… (And I don’t even mean a full close up, just profile) I wud have loved to see his sunbathed face, his eyes almost gold in the sunlight .. with an pensive expression, but a slight smile playing on his beautiful lips – looking ahead, waiting to see what’s ahead – pensive but hopeful….. It’s the dawn of his new life, his new self.

I think ur right Starr, “he’s staring at a light or something ‘“ what is that?” I think it’s him catching the 1st glimpse of morning light.

Mtlfan, you have to know that Jim Cantiello never liked Danny (neither did Slezak)…I can’t remember which, but one of them posted videos of Danny doing his vulgar dance moves (pumping). So it was all in keeping with Season 8 (not that it’s necessarily right, but…).

Meanwhile, back to the video. It totally IS brill and I am really enjoying getting to see it. No clue how much video impacts sales these days (if at all) but it’s still got to be a kick for an artist to get to see his first video.

It’s a kick for his fans, too! LOL

i’m sure this video will help a lot in boosting sales!

I’ve been waiting all day to watch this video and all I have to say is “WOW!”

Seeker, I like your take on this. That would have made this video even MORE awesome!!

I just wish that, if only for a second, the camera had followed up to Kris’s face when he’s watching the sunrise’ ¦ (And I don’t even mean a full close up, just profile) I wud have loved to see his sunbathed face, his eyes almost gold in the sunlight .. with an pensive expression, but a slight smile playing on his beautiful lips ‘“ looking ahead, waiting to see what’s ahead ‘“ pensive but hopeful’ ¦.. It’s the dawn of his new life, his new self.

did you guys see this?

For this week’s Random Friday Memo, I picked up a few bonus numbers from the Nielsen SoundScan folks that I figured you might enjoy: the cumulative track downloads for three of this past American Idol season’s top finishers. (If I had realized Danny Gokey would debut his single this week, I would’ve gotten his, too.)

Kris Allen: 1.1 million
Adam Lambert: 923,000
Allison Iraheta: 31,000

I don’t know that the tallies at this point have much value as anything other than a curiosity, but read into them what you will. BTW, the Adam Lambert/Allison Iraheta version of Slow Ride has 42,000 downloads, while the Kris Allen/Danny Gokey Renegade has sold 20,000 copies.

link

erenguest, thanks a bunch for the SoundScan info!!! So glad to know that Kris did pretty well afterall on the downloads!

“There might not be a story on the surface, but it actually has one. Starting scene of Kris driving signifies him from a normal life to his what he does best. Kris is shown here as 3 roles. A singer, a guitarist and a pianist. And while he performs the song, the clock is ticking away, which signifies that he is living his dream. The ending shot of the break of dawn is powerful, which signifies a brand new day = a brand new journey for Kris. ”

Love this description- its totally the way I see the video as well. Its very symbolic of what Kris is going through now!! Its his story- that’s why its just him in the clip!! They’re introducing Kris Allen to the world & what he can do!! The instruments are there to signify him as an artist , its not about what is or isn’t in the song!!!
We come into & leave the world alone & its up to you to make the most of each & every day!! That’s why this video clip is perfect for the song – it captures the journey that Kris is now on!! I love the concept & think it works well for the song!! I also love the passion that Kris shows here singing the song – its just like the passion he has for life & making the most of each day!!

So yes I love this video !!!!

I was so anxious all day to see this video and I have to say, I’m thrilled with how it turned out. I think it’s perfect for the song and perfect for Kris.

Judes, I have to agree, this is his story and we are very luck to be along for the ride!

That’s a very good video. Pleasantly surprised.

wand3rful, I have a FB friend who is in the entertainment industry. Hmmmm’ ¦.. Sounds like an exciting career you have!! Thanks for the info. I don’t pay a lot of attention to stuff like that. I just know that Archie always wore chucks and Cook wore boots. Cook was way cooler (IMO), so I was hoping Kris would ditch the chucks for a more matture look. Shows what this mom knows!! haha

I wish. Im in private equity/RE, but since I grew up here in LA, most of my friends are somehow tied to the entertainment or fashion industry. Even my friends who work in sales are connected to that world (one works as a product rep to high end hair salons and another sells BOOBS to the top surgeons in Bev Hills). Thus I get invited to some interesting (free!) events. There was a point last night where I did joke about the overwhelming number of Chucks…paired with black jeans and a scarf, it was the perfect costume for “LA Hipster”.

But yeah, wouldn’t hurt the boy to dress up once in a while. Unfortunately, from what ive noticed, a lot of the pretty boys try to rough up/ dirty their image while the non attractive dudes go overboard (too much cologne, white alligator boots, open silk shirts LOL). silly boys.

Its a clock with a timer setting LOL

tomato (timer), tomatoe (clock). I get the point: time is ticking, running out. before you know it, life/chance has already passed. the apocalyptic middle of no where set adds to that mood. Kris at dawn sprinting away is a nice closure. as if he’s getting another chance (at something). dawn, sun rise normally represents birth, a new beginning. its a pretty straightforward concept.

What a great concept. I like the dreamlike quality and what I see as a metaphor in the junkyard setting: A place where the things of our past dreams have been abandoned. Kris starts the clock ticking on the past to end with a new day as the time runs out.

I pulled this from the popeater’s comments. I like how this is stated. Very nice!

dmr, lol your guess is as good as mine.

How so? Can you explain? As far as I can tell it was very cohesive.

Yeah, I’d have to agree with you here.

Sorry, can’t figure out the edit thing.

you have to know that Jim Cantiello never liked Danny (neither did Slezak)’ ¦I can’t remember which, but one of them posted videos of Danny doing his vulgar dance moves (pumping). So it was all in keeping with Season 8 (not that it’s necessarily right, but’ ¦).

dmr, yes I know about that. But chronic bullying gets on my nerves and I think Danny doesn’t deserve that

For this week’s Random Friday Memo, I picked up a few bonus numbers from the Nielsen SoundScan folks that I figured you might enjoy: the cumulative track downloads for three of this past American Idol season’s top finishers. (If I had realized Danny Gokey would debut his single this week, I would’ve gotten his, too.)

Kris Allen: 1.1 million
Adam Lambert: 923,000
Allison Iraheta: 31,000

I don’t know that the tallies at this point have much value as anything other than a curiosity, but read into them what you will. BTW, the Adam Lambert/Allison Iraheta version of Slow Ride has 42,000 downloads, while the Kris Allen/Danny Gokey Renegade has sold 20,000 copies.

thanks a lot erenguest for this info!!
THAT IS VERY INTERESTING!

@Seeker:

Actually I really like that they didn’t show his face at the end, and it was just his back to the screen. It looked really mysterious and it makes you go, “Hmm what is he thinking when he’s looking at that sunrise?” I love love love the way that last shot makes use of the light!

So happy with this first MV for Kris. Love the concept, setting, colors, sunrise, grand piano, and the earnest, classically handsome young man singing the song. Carpe diem is what I get from it.
On a more mundane note, we have a white Chevy Silverado and the truck reminds me of ours. The front grille is in shadow so that the emblem is obscured, but any car buffs who can tell the make and model? Also, noticed the tailgate is down. Interpretation? a. to get better gas mileage (noticed this project at the local science fair), or b. “letting go”, “traveling light”, etc., i.e. not carrying baggage.

wand3rful
11/06/2009 at 7:24 pm

But yeah, wouldn’t hurt the boy to dress up once in a while. Unfortunately, from what ive noticed, a lot of the pretty boys try to rough up/ dirty their image while the non attractive dudes go overboard (too much cologne, white alligator boots, open silk shirts LOL). silly boys.

Having just moved out here – to LA, I mean – I totally noticed this, and have had good laugh at it. Not too many real hipsters here, but lots of pretty boys trying to look like them. The alligator boots/ silk shirt combo seems ubiquitous in any industry town, though, Austin not excluded. Very silly indeed.

As far as the clock/ timer thing…it’s gotten silly. I made an offhand remark, and people actually tried to defend the use of the word “clock?” I was making a an observation, and maybe a small nitpick at the pro reviewers (a la font/ typeface), not trying to start an argument. Seriously. Not an issue.

Also, not arguing over the concept or the meaning. That’s clear. I was talking about the plot – and yes, there is one. There always is. I’m a film editor and a writer. I can’t help but look at these things in a certain way. It seems to me like there are scenes missing. They probably could have used an extra shooting day. That’s all I was saying. The more work I do, the more I notice these kinds of things. YMMV, of course.

ETA: Very happy that Kris got a nice budget. It’s definitely lush, and has a high production value.

On a more mundane note, we have a white Chevy Silverado and the truck reminds me of ours. The front grille is in shadow so that the emblem is obscured, but any car buffs who can tell the make and model?

My husband (an auto mechanic) says it looks like a plain old Chevy work truck. Could be a Silverado. Older model.

I love the video, by the way. Think it fits the mood of the song nicely.

I keep
watching this
is working on me
must resist
damn you pop music

I liked the video. Favorite parts are Kris on the guitar and on the piano. It highlights that he’s not just a singer. There’s more to Kris than meets the eye.

LLWD is a great song. Everytime I hear it on the radio, I turn the volume up and start moving to the music.

“did you guys see this?

For this week’s Random Friday Memo, I picked up a few bonus numbers from the Nielsen SoundScan folks that I figured you might enjoy: the cumulative track downloads for three of this past American Idol season’s top finishers. (If I had realized Danny Gokey would debut his single this week, I would’ve gotten his, too.)

Kris Allen: 1.1 million
Adam Lambert: 923,000
Allison Iraheta: 31,000

I don’t know that the tallies at this point have much value as anything other than a curiosity, but read into them what you will. BTW, the Adam Lambert/Allison Iraheta version of Slow Ride has 42,000 downloads, while the Kris Allen/Danny Gokey Renegade has sold 20,000 copies.

link
”

This is so interesting and exciting! This does seem reasonable considering the voting results. For reality show contestants who are brand new to the pop music business, I’d say these numbers aren’t too shabby!

I don’t remember anyone posted this article that I just saw and read http://newsroom.mtv.com/2009/11/06/kris-allen-live-like-were-dying-video/ by Jim Cantiello.

I particularly like this part:
“The video starts in near-darkness, but as the clip progresses (and as he plays more instruments), the sun slowly rises until the final moments, when a new day has officially dawned. Call me sentimental (and, okay, a crazy fan), but this video perfectly mirrors Kris’ “Idol” journey in a deliciously subtle way. He began as a guy with little exposure during the early episodes, but thanks to his earnest performances and winning personality, he ended up being the top dog.

Huh. Interesting take on the video by Cantiello. I thought it was funny that they mentioned that what looked like 15 minutes on the timer (it’s actually 1 minute and 50 seconds) was Kris winking at his detractors about their jeering of him only getting 15 minutes of fame post-Idol, and it would actually be kind of funny if that was the case, however I doubt it.

Well just logged into twitter & found these nice pic of Kris and his mom and brother. What a sweet and tight family…

http://twitpic.com/oigko
http://twitpic.com/oji8y

I have watched the video 100 times and still loving it.
Great job, Kris!!! I really like that it’s only Kris in the video. So it’s focused on him and not on the other stuff. Can’t wait for the album.

Found another article on twitter by Lyndsay Parker
http://new.music.yahoo.com/blogs/realityrocks/293024/watch-like-youre-dying-kris-allens-video-premieres/

@snlw: Daniel is really athletic! He should be, since he’s a cheerleading coach.

lol maturin. just give in to it, it’s easier that way.

I really like this song and Kris looks fantastic in the video. I like it that they did something creative, it was interesting to watch. Of course he is cute enough that they could just let him stand there and sing and that would be just fine with a lot of people!

LLWD just cracked the Top 40 on the mediabase pop chart!!!

http://www.mediabase.com/mmrweb/insideradio/charts.asp?format=1&showyear=y&dpt=n

I’m loving these reviews of the video! I almost joined mtv so I could comment to Jim Cantiello. I love this guy!!!!

The pictures of Kris and his mom and Kris and Daniel as soooo sweet!

My husband liked the video. When I described it to him he admitted that he was hoping for some imagery from the song, but after he watched it he saw the visual appeal

Eta:not only is he on top 40 he has an up arrow!:::

Photo of Kris performing at the Dream Foundation gala tonight

jenniferguessPR @krisallen performing MJ’s Man in the Mirror, killing it acoustic style… Wow!!! http://twitpic.com/okt2o

LLWD just cracked the Top 40 on the mediabase pop chart!!!

Yay!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Great news from my fave newsie!!!

Thanks girlygirl!!

the video is HOT!!! Kris is HOT!!! i love it!!!!

Oops, looks like I eta’d on the wrong comment. LOL. And here I was excited that I got the edit thingy to work. Well, since it looks like I’m talking to *looks around* yep-no one I guess maybe it doesn’t matter.

Thank you girlygirl for the awesome news!!!

I saw you cookcricket..

cookcricket
11/07/2009 at 12:20 am
I’m loving these reviews of the video! I almost joined mtv so I could comment to Jim Cantiello. I love this guy!!!!

I almost joined too!!

Hey, you guys will appreciate this. My son and his wife came home tonight for the weekend (sadly, they’re not AI fans although they don’t really dislike AI). I convinced them to watch the video…my daughter-in-law says “I really like the clock concept.” CLOCK!

I have to say one more thing. I didn’t actually watch this video full screen until tonight. I sometimes forget I can do that. Even though I liked it before, watching it full screen I liked it even better. It’s really a beautiful piece of work.

Ok, I just checked Itunes. Kris’s album is sitting at 91 which is surprising….but I know it will come up when he starts some PR. What REALLY surprises me is that Adam’s album is not showing up AT ALL. Neither is Allison’s. What up with that?! I know Adam released his single through Amazon, but so did Kris. Curious minds….

dmr, I don’t think Adam and Allison’s albums have been released to iTunes for pre-order yet.

I’ll have to watch the video full screen tomorrow ross, I have to go to sleep now.

snlw
11/07/2009 at 1:25 am

I saw you cookcricket..

Hee *red face*.

Good night.

cookcricket, thanks. I don’t really know how this process works, but that makes sense. I looked several times today and couldn’t figure out why Adam’s album wasn’t charting. Duh!

Seriously, Kris, and you’re my favorite from this season (which actually isn’t saying all that much), as many times as you say you “Tried” to have fun is as many times as I’m looking for you NOT having fun. I’d hate for looking for you not having fun to be the focus of your video…

Just watch the MV again and loving it even more if possible. And a couple more days well be hearing his whole album,am so darn excited. It was a very exciting day yesterday for us Kris fans. Monday well be another one. Someone said it might be posted right at midnight.I really hope so,since we wasn’t giving a certain time.

we shot it from 8PM to 8AM in the morning. That was crazy, with no breaks at all

gingerly, if you come back:)….this quote was earlier in the interview, so at least to me, I don’t see how this would be fun, unless you make the decision ahead of time that you’re going to have fun with it, which in the end he says he did. Kris saying “tried”= “I decided to have fun”=Kris did have fun!!

No biggie, just trying to explain and hopefully not sounding defensive. LOL!

No it’s cool, cookcricketl. And while it wasn’t just one quote, I don’t think…It was pounding in my head…I’m not about to buy his MV or his single. I’m about albums and Kris’s is one I think I want. I don’t buy singles (well, except for David Cook’s) and I don’t buy music videos (same disclaimer). Yup,Cook roped and tied me, and Kris is some music I want.

a teenager made his own video of LLWD.

i tought it was quite cute!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h_AVrQsO0N4

Mtlfan :
“a teenager made his own video of LLWD.

i tought it was quite cute!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h_AVrQsO0N4”

OMG that’s too cute! LOL too!

Hope this hasn’t been posted….short behind the scenes video of the Elle shoot. (I LIKE the vest and tie!)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LK6e7ZlxX9Y&feature=player_embedded

great. 53 seconds of kradison and the first question asked is…

I think that video was put out pretty close to when the announcement was made that Paula was leaving.

Cute vid from the teenager! Thanks for posting mtlfan!

Kris’s vid looks great on the full screen!

I love Kris’ music video. Very nicely filmed, framed and edited. Really complements his vocals very well.

Excellent work, Kris!

WOW LLWD finally back up to top 100 on iTunes! Currently at #97!!! But his pre-order album has dropped to #120

Also, pre-order album is at #23 on iTunes Pop and LLWD is at #36 on Pop

I’m thinking and hoping his album pre-order will pick back up after Monday.

Where did the video go????

Hmmm the video is missing…

Anyway, LLWD is now at #89 on Itunes and #35 on pop chart!!! The video certainly is helping!!!

And cookcricket, hope Monday album streaming on AOL will help his pre-order. Some people might still be waiting to buy hard copy from wal-mart though.

somehow I posted this on a different thread, but it belongs here:

Is the video being sold on itunes, too? I only saw a few minutes of the VH1 video countdown this morning (#11 is Rob Thomas in a big parade video), so I don’t know if LLWD was featured there or not. Anybody see it? If it’s going to help promote the single, peeps need to know where to find it. You tube only?

LLWD is currently featured as a Top 20 Premiere on the VH1 website and Kris will be making an appearance on the show on November 21st!

Source: http://www.vh1.com/shows/series/top_20_countdown/

girlgirl, I didn’t see LLWD on the top 20 list on that web site..

I tried to vote foe Kris for next week’s top 20 and keep getting error!!! I think the ” ‘ ” in the “we’re” of “Live Like We’re Dying” caused problem as the control won’t allow the ” ‘ ” to be entered.

Yeah, video link is back!!

I couldn’t find the video on itunes. Will now look for it on the VH1site. Thanks girlygirl. I’ll see if I can vote for it snlw!

I saw LLWD at 34 pop/83 top songs. Movin’ up!

Link for the video at VH1:

http://www.vh1.com/video/play.jhtml?id=1589364&vid=451267

snlw, I tried to vote for it too by writing it in (without any ‘ ) and I still got an error message. Boo! But I watched it again, and it’s still a cool video!

Watched it – again. Loved it – again! When can I buy it? When can I vote on VH1? Tried to vote and had the same problem as others.

Kris is now at iTunes #78 and #34 on pop! Go Kris GO!

Argh, late to the party and missed out altogether, having fun catching up all the comments here.

Anyway, since then, the Music Video is working wonders for Kris.

LLWD has now moved up to #77 on ITunes.

And topping the VH1 ‘This Week’s Most Popular Playlist’ today. http://www.vh1.com/music/mostpopular/

YAY! LLWD is now #70 on Itunes! (It’s #32 on Pop.)

“Live Like We’re Dying” is #1 on VH1′s Most Popular Hit Songs and Videos

http://www.vh1.com/music/mostpopular/

YAY!!!! GO KRIS ALLEN!!! GO GO GO! GO LLWD!!! Go Puig!!!!
I’m soo happy… We’ve been waiting for this. We all knew this would happen — the Music Video Bump Up! Put Kris Allen infront of a Camera — result = beautiful!

(Still wish we could catch a glimpse of Kris’s face in the sun at the end of the video. In the end I’m like ‘lemme see ur face!lemme take a look’… end up watching the whole video again just to look at his face….
….IDECAM! The MV is just beautiful!)