World-renowned music icon Sir Elton John has been creating music since the 60s. With over 250 million records sold, his contribution to the music industry has earned him 38 gold and 31 platinum or multi-platinum albums, and holds the record for the second biggest selling single of all time – Candle in the Wind (1997). In this time, he has released 77 music videos, but as his career started before the concept of music videos was popular, there are certain classics that don’t have a music video. Until now…
Elton John and songwriter Bernie Taupin have partnered with YouTube in a new competition called ‘The Cut’. The project gives creators the opportunity to submit visuals for Rocket Man, Bennie and the Jets, and Tiny Dancer, which, if selected, will be used in creating the official music videos. In addition, if you are among the winning directors, you also receive a prize of $10,000 USD.
Each video comes with the challenge of creating a video in a specific style of filmmaking. Luckily, the inspiration, brief and audio clip for each song is provided on The Cut website. The styles are as follows:
- Tiny Dancer (1971) – Video Style: Live Action
- Rocket Man (1972) – Video Style: Animation
- Bennie and the Jets (1973) – Video Style: Choreography
There is also a useful video on how to create a video treatment to help you put your video together.
This is an amazing opportunity for YouTube Creators and caters to so many contributors, no matter what style of shooting you prefer. Entry open from the 9th of January 2017 and submissions close two weeks after that. Make sure to sign up for more information and reminders.
For more information on the project or if you think you have what it takes, visit www.thecut.eltonjohn.com and subscribe to Elton John’s YouTube channel for the latest content from The Cut.