Chris Stapleton Talks Music Video Treatment in the Making of ‘Fire Away’
Chris Stapleton took a bold step in the right direction when he decided to cover the heart-wrenching topic of mental illness in the music video for his song, “Fire Away.”
Chris Stapleton took a bold step in the right direction when he decided to cover the heart-wrenching topic of mental illness in the music video for his song, “Fire Away.”
In a recently video released by Stapleton, he along with director Tim Mattia and actor Ben Foster discussed the challenging treatment he envisioned to Dr. Barbara Van Dahlen, who is a part of ChangeDirection.org. The organization raises awareness for mental health and promotes the importance of maintaining a healthy emotional well-being.
Stapleton talks about how he didn’t know what he wanted as a storyline for the video, but when the idea came to him, even the strange stares of disbelief couldn’t sway him away from focusing on the sensitive subject.
“The song is kinda about loving somebody unconditionally through not so easy times and the concept of the video kinda came to me as that would be the hardest possible space in which to love somebody,” said Stapleton.
The video tells the story of a police officer, played by Foster, whose girlfriend, played by Margarita Levieva, is facing the constant struggles of mental illness. Although Foster saves her repeatedly throughout the video from social situations and self-harm, he tragically misses the mark as she ultimately ends her life when he’s out on duty.
Although the subject matter can still be considered taboo for some people, Stapleton hopes the video will help someone who may not realize the help they need for these disorders. He partnered with ChangeDirection.org to be able to bring light to those who may be suffering without a safe place to find.
“Literally, we got on the phone with Ben [Foster] and he was like, ‘Well, I’ve been working with this charity,’ and it just seems like one of those universe things. Just like the right thing to do,” he said.
Take a look at the “Making Of” video to hear more about Stapleton’s important vision and check out ChangeDirection.org to learn more about the significance of protecting the culture of mental health.
“Fire Away” also earned Stapleton two nominations at the 2016 CMT Music Awards, one for Video of the Year and Breakthrough of the Year.
