Words + Music: A Visual Journey into the Stories Behind the Songs
A new music series called "Words + Music" is set to debut on MGM+ this fall, featuring artists like Elvis Costello, Sheryl Crow, John Legend, and Alanis Morissette. The series will showcase the performers sharing personal stories behind their songs in front of a small audience with large screens illustrating their tales. Filmed at Amazon MGM Studios in Culver City, the show is an extension of the successful "Words + Music" podcast by Gunpowder & Sky and Audible.
Gunpowder & Sky CEO Van Toffler shared the vision for the series, which combines storytelling and music in a visually captivating way. With a team of experienced producers like Alex Coletti and Bill Flanagan, the show aims to offer a unique viewing experience by incorporating visuals, music, and narratives. The use of advanced technology like LED screens and motion-capture cameras enhances the storytelling aspect of the series.
Each episode of "Words + Music" is tailored to the artist's vision, allowing them to showcase their artwork and personal stories. The series aims to capture the essence of the artists' music and lyrics, highlighting their storytelling abilities. Gunpowder & Sky's commitment to innovative storytelling around music is evident in their diverse range of projects, from virtual reality concerts to animated documentaries.
While the future of the series beyond the initial season is uncertain, Toffler expresses his desire to continue telling stories through music. The collaboration between Audible and Gunpowder & Sky extends to other projects like "Words + Movies," a podcast series featuring filmmakers discussing their work and influences. Toffler envisions the potential for these audio-based projects to transition into visual productions in the future.
"Words + Music" is part of a larger partnership between Audible and Amazon MGM Studios to develop content inspired by Audible's library. The series joins other projects like Michael Connelly's "The Wonderland Murders & the Secret History of Hollywood" in expanding the platform's offerings. As Toffler juggles multiple production responsibilities, including the upcoming Video Music Awards, he remains committed to exploring new ways of storytelling through music and visuals.
In conclusion, "Words + Music" represents a creative collaboration between artists, producers, and technology to deliver a unique storytelling experience. The series showcases the power of music and narratives to connect with audiences on a deeper level, offering a glimpse into the personal stories behind the songs we love. With a focus on innovation and creativity, Gunpowder & Sky continues to push the boundaries of storytelling in the digital age.