Video: Imogen Heap goes to Bhutan; inspired musicmaking ensues

Musician Imogen Heap went to Bhutan for “the amazing scenery, to meet people I didn’t know much about, and to discover a new culture.”

Rod Meade Sperry
18 July 2014

She went to Bhutan for “the amazing scenery, to meet people I didn’t know much about, and to discover a new culture,” says musician Imogen Heap – and sure enough, all of this has come into play in her new music.

In this behind-the-scenes clip behind the making of two new songs and their videos, Heap explains how the sights and sounds of Bhutan — temple bells, the crackling of fires, the thwick of an archer’s bow, Buddhist monks and nuns chanting, “somebody shoeing a horse,” — inspired her and actually became part of her work.

It all makes for very enjoyable watching. And once you’ve done so, view the videos for the two songs (links open in new windows): Click here to watch Cycle Song. | Click here to watch Climb to Sakteng.

 

Rod Meade Sperry. Photo by Megumi Yoshida, 2024

Rod Meade Sperry

Rod Meade Sperry is the editor of Buddhadharma, Lion’s Roar’s online source for committed Buddhists, and the book A Beginner’s Guide to Meditation: Practical Advice and Inspiration from Contemporary Buddhist Teachers. He lives in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with his partner and their tiny pup, Sid.