Bonnie “Prince” Billy releases new track “Hey Little”
The newly released track, “Hey Little,” from Bonnie “Prince” Billy, is the latest single to follow the previously launched “They Keep Trying To Find You.” Along with the release of this new song, a visually captivating video directed by Brent Stewart & Maya Stewart has also been unveiled.
Will Oldham, the talented musician behind the persona of Bonnie “Prince” Billy, delves into the inspiration behind “Hey Little” and its accompanying video. He reveals that the song was actually penned years ago with the intention of being sung by someone else. However, now with personal growth and newfound experiences as a father, the lyrics have been reimagined and reshaped. The inclusion of Catherine Irwin’s soulful vocals adds a layer of depth and emotion to the track. In order to enhance the overall musical composition, he sought inspiration from Madonna’s “Dear Jessie” and enlisted Ryder McNair to craft intricate string arrangements that complement the song beautifully.
The process of creating the music video was a collaborative and creative endeavor led by Brent Stewart and his daughter Maya. Their artistic vision, coupled with Oldham’s input, brought the visual representation of the song to life. The filming was described as seamless and infused with joy. Stewart expressed a desire to incorporate a double-exposure effect in the video, reminiscent of the cinematic style found in the Burt Lancaster film, “The Swimmer.” This idea resonated with both Maya and Brent, who eagerly embraced the concept. To add a unique touch, the filming took place in the midst of winter in an indoor pool graciously made available by friends in Louisville. One standout moment in the video is Thomas Deakin’s exquisite clarinet solo, adding a hauntingly beautiful element to the overall aesthetic of the production. And let’s not forget the unexpected appearance of real live goats, adding a touch of whimsy and charm to the visual narrative.
In conclusion, “Hey Little” not only showcases Bonnie “Prince” Billy’s musical prowess but also highlights the collaborative effort that went into creating both the song and its accompanying video. With a blend of rich vocals, intricate musical arrangements, and visually stunning imagery, this latest release is a testament to the creativity and artistry of all those involved in the project.