The music video has always been a fun insight into the artists we love. They get to branch out from their songs to create a comprehensive experience and immerse the viewer in the music with additional depths of imagery and meaning. As we look ahead to the Canadian Country Music Association Awards on Sept. 9, there's no better way to get ready than to take in the nominees for video of the year.
Let's look at the artists who are up for the prize, and the videos that got them there.
Dean Brody, 'Canadian Girls'
The Nova Scotia-based, B.C.-bred artist shares his appreciation for ladies from everywhere in between with this song.
Johnny Reid, 'Fire It Up'
This entry is from the proud tradition of video literalism. Everybody's favourite transplanted Scot sings in front of a fire as the lyrics of this foot-stomper are brought to life in vignettes on screen.
Paul Brandt, 'Give It Away'
The Calgary native was the first Canadian man to crack the Top 10 of Billboard's Hot Country Songs chart since Hank Snow. In this outing, he offers some advice on how to make love stay.
Ryan Laird, 'I'm Your Man'
The mix and match of video has Laird mixing up body parts as he proclaims his love for an equally jumbled woman. There's something for everybody.
The Stellas, 'In This House'
This was the only entry in the category that also got nominated for video director of the year. The husband-and-wife duo sing about a love that reaches beyond the grave in a tearjerker video dedicated to departed Canadian soldiers.
Let us know who you think should win.
Related:
Add Dean Brody's songs to your playlist on his CBC Music artist page
Add Johnny Reid's songs to your playlist on his CBC Music artist page
Add songs by The Stellas to your playlist on his CBC Music artist page
CCMA Awards: Nominee playlist
Specialty Stream: Listen to CCMA Award Past Winners