Last year, a collaboration between French indie star Chris from Christine and the Queens and psychedelic-pop duo MGMT came to fruition with the creation of the track 'Dancing in Babylon' for MGMT's upcoming fifth studio album, Loss of Life. The collaboration stemmed from Chris' admiration for MGMT's music and a shared passion for their records with a former lover. The track evolved into an '80s-inspired power ballad, reflecting emotions of love and sincerity.
When the artists met in the studio in Paris, the track transitioned into a dreamy '80s synth soundscape, leading to the realization that it could be a duet. The emotional depth of the collaboration was evident as they discussed themes of love and loss, aiming to infuse their music with sincerity and depth.
The music video for 'Dancing in Babylon' marked a reunion between MGMT and director Ray Tintori, known for directing their previous music videos. The visual narrative explores queer love and commitment through a hallucinogenic lens, incorporating elements of '80s futurism fashion, a video game set in a war zone, and unexpected elements like a sandwich.
The video's concept was conceived during a reunion with choreographer Max Goldblatt, leading to a creative and visually captivating production. The queer romance depicted in the video aligns with the song's theme of a love story between two men, adding a layer of depth and authenticity to the project.
Reflecting on the collaboration, both Chris and MGMT emphasized the importance of emotional depth and creative chemistry in their work. The project served as a reminder of the energy and imagination required in music-making, highlighting the joy of artistic collaboration and the significance of focusing on positive energy.
Overall, the collaboration between Chris and MGMT encapsulates a harmonious blend of musical talent, emotional depth, and creative vision, resulting in a powerful and heartfelt track that resonates with themes of love, sincerity, and artistic exploration.
