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We are all familiar with the classic debate of the book being way better than the movie or vice versa, and we usually find ourselves passionately defending our own perspective (or being entirely indifferent to the matter). When it comes to the world of music, nothing says more about an artist than the fantasy he or she visually creates to further tell the story of the song we have all been listening to on repeat. Whether you’re a fan or a hater, here are 5 high-rolling music videos that found their magic inside gigantically glam mansions.
“Blank Space”
Arguably her greatest visual to date, Taylor Swift’s megahit “Blank Space” reached luxurious heights at the Oheka Castle in Huntington, New York (Long Island), previously used for FX’s The Americans as well as a few Gossip Girl soirées. The singer saunters through the great halls, hedged gardens and fairytale courtyard, effortlessly making “bad guys good for the weekend” and high-rolling living look really, really good. With more than 2 billion views, this video is T.Swift at her absolute finest.
“Sucker”
A strong contender for song of the year, the Jonas Brothers’ “Sucker” marks one of the greatest comebacks of the decade. In true go-big-or-go-home fashion, the nostalgic trio took over the Hatfield House in Hertfordshire, England, which has served as the backdrop for such acclaimed films as The Favourite, Batman Begins and V for Vendetta. Featuring the brothers alongside their famous wives, the music video is a fashion-with-a-capital-F moment on the sprawling grounds and within the stunning halls of the historic 1611 estate. To say I’m a sucker for all of the above would be a total understatement.
“It’s All Coming Back To Me Now”
A woman of many talents, Céline Dion is a fashion and music god. Shot at the Chateau Ploskovice in the Czech Republic, her short film for her epic song “It’s All Coming Back To Me Now” is a tour de force of emotion, candlelit romance and fierce motorcycle stunting. Haunted by the ghost of her recently deceased lover, Dion rocks the defining hairstyle of the nineties while passionately grieving the man who made her feel everything. If that isn’t iconic, I honestly couldn’t tell you what is.
“G.U.Y.”
An overlooked banger, Lady Gaga’s Artpop hit “G.U.Y.” is an underappreciated feat of pop perfection. Set on the 85,000-foot terrace of the Hearst Castle, the video has the whole Haus of Gaga, Andy Cohen, and the cast of the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills all contributing to the choreographed glory both in and out of the Roman-style pool. In exchange for a three-day shoot on the grounds, the singer reportedly gifted the functioning museum $250,000 to promote and preserve the California treasure. Giving back to history while making it? Yes, please.
“Wannabe”
Sparking a global movement, the Spice Girls released their anthemic first single “Wannabe” in 1996, instantly launching the girl-power group to superstardom. Turning their debut up a notch, the fierce five some took over London’s Midland Grand Hotel (presently the St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel) for the timeless music video — later the spot for the filming of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. With a reunion tour in full swing, the Spice Girls are still loudly and proudly zig-a-zig-ah-ing like there’s no tomorrow, and we are here for it.
