Where Was Bittersweet Symphony Video Filmed

Alright, gather 'round, folks. I've got a tale to spin about a certain music video that's been puzzling minds since the 90s. You know the one - "Bittersweet Symphony" by The Verve. Now, where was it filmed, you ask? Well, buckle up, because it's a journey that involves a dash of mystery, a sprinkle of controversy, and a whole lot of Richard Ashcroft's iconic coat.

First Stop: The Windy City

So, our story begins in the bustling, windy city of Chicago. Yes, you heard it right. The video that's become synonymous with British alt-rock actually kicked off across the pond in the good ol' US of A. But here's where things get a tad confusing. The band didn't exactly have a love affair with the city. In fact, they were so unimpressed with their time there that they decided to scrap the entire footage. Can you believe it? All that wind, and they didn't even use it!

Now, you might be wondering, "Why on earth would they do that?" Well, my friends, it seems our heroes weren't too keen on the idea of their video being overshadowed by the city's skyscrapers. They wanted the focus to be on them, not the backdrop. Fair enough, I suppose. After all, it's not every day you get to rock a coat that's practically its own character.

A Change of Plans

With Chicago out of the picture, the band decided to head back home to the UK. But where in Britain would they find a location that was both visually stunning and, well, not too expensive? Enter Mick Jagger. Yes, that Mick Jagger. It turns out, old Mick was a fan of the band and offered up his very own estate, Redlands, for the video shoot. Now, that's what you call a rock 'n' roll connection!

But here's where things get a bit sticky. You see, Redlands wasn't just any old estate. It was the very place where Keith Richards and Anita Pallenberg were busted for drugs back in the 60s. Talk about a bit of rock history! But I digress. The band was thrilled with the location, and so, the new plan was set in motion.

Enter the Symphony

With Redlands as their backdrop, the band set about filming what would become one of the most iconic music videos of the 90s. And let me tell you, it was a sight to behold. There was Ashcroft, strutting his stuff in that famous coat, the band jamming in the grand estate, and even a cameo from a certain someone in a top hat. But who was it? Well, that's a mystery for another time.

But here's where things get a bit bittersweet. You remember how I mentioned that the band wasn't too keen on being overshadowed by their backdrop? Well, it seems they might have had a change of heart. Because, let's face it, Redlands is pretty darn stunning. And while the band might have been the star of the show, the estate certainly gave them a run for their money.

A Symphony of Controversy

Now, you might be thinking, "That's all well and good, but what about the controversy?" Ah, yes. The elephant in the room. You see, "Bittersweet Symphony" is famous for more than just its video. It's also famous for the little legal kerfuffle it caused. You see, the video features a sample from the Andrew Oldham Orchestra's version of "The Last Time" by The Rolling Stones. And while the band thought they had permission to use it, it turns out they didn't.

Cue a lengthy legal battle that ended with Mick Jagger and Keith Richards being credited as co-writers of the song. Ouch. Talk about a bittersweet symphony, huh? But hey, at least they got to film their video in a gorgeous estate. Silver linings, folks. Silver linings.

And That's the Story...

So there you have it, the tale of "Bittersweet Symphony" and its winding road to fame. From the windy city of Chicago to the historic estate of Redlands, it's been one heck of a journey. And while the band might have had their ups and downs, one thing's for sure - that video is a classic. So, the next time you're watching Ashcroft strut his stuff, remember the story behind the symphony. And who knows? Maybe you'll appreciate that top hat a little more.