We recently had a chance to speak with electronic producer Swayló about the video for his recent track, “Desert Flower.” Check out our interview below to learn more about the video process, and the themes behind it!
Your music is influenced by New Mexican, Mexican, and South African roots. Were there specific tribes or modern influences from these areas that helped in the making of the “Desert Flower” music video?
“Yes in all the art, music, visuals, video and overall intention. The video represents a ceremony of light in a modern and urban setting. The focus is on honoring the elements – Air, Water, Earth, Fire and paying respect to the natural environment. The main message is that nature is resilient. That humans are nature and therefore we are resilient.”
In the music video, fire looks as if it symbolizes life instead of destruction. One of the images is one women dancing with fire – or welding it – which can be seen as women welding life. What made you decide to symbolize life with fire?
“Life is creation and destruction all in one. Fire and water represent this… balance! It is the innate responsibility of life to grow and also decay. Dancing with this force with this intention, in my eyes is welding of life of creation. It is honoring the cycle and the delicate balance yet the resilient nature.”
When you created the music video was it inspired by the symbolism of the song’s namesake — Desert Flower? Which is traditionally symbolized as perseverance?
“Yes — It was created to inspire the listener to embody and always hold resilience. To persevere! And also, to remember our connection with the natural spectrum of this experience even within the urban system. Think of that flower that pushes through the crack in the concrete. Life is resilient.”
The theme of the music video is co-existing. Would you say that musically, or socially, that the world is closer to that goal and your music video reflects that?
“Yes, there is so much attention to separation in the current time. Yet I believe the world is closer to unity to co-existing than ever before, that might not be reflected in our actions. But on a zoom out we are. We are unified in the desire to exist and that is again the responsibility of life – To live and grow, to flourish. I always like to remember there is enough for everyone. So let’s share it.”
What made you decide to create a music video for “Desert Flower” only as opposed to any of your other music?
“I just felt inspired. When I produce, I always imagine visuals and create cinematic experiences in my head that guide me through sound production. I am hungry to create more video. Excited to collaborate with others.”
What was the creative process behind the making of the “Desert Flower” music video?
“It was really created in the moment in flow and in an organic fashion. There was no script and much of it was filmed in one session. Most of it came together in post-production letting the imagination and inspiration from what was captured in the moment guide the creation.”
The opening theme of “Desert Flower” seemed to be awareness – from the quick flash shots of an eye to a woman placing a crystal to her forehead – how does that connect to the overarching theme of the music video?
“If we are aware, we are open and in line with source and truth and it gives us the ability to find meaning for ourselves to discover, adventure and explore.”
What can we expect from you and your music in the future? Is there anything we should keep an eye out for?
“I am excited to share the new sounds, new music and new experiences in 2020. Yes, please do keep ya eyes, ears and minds open to this journey. Love u. x.”
You can watch the video for “Desert Flower” below.
