American Football - Never Meant [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

About This Footage

The 1999 official music video for American Football's "Never Meant" is a rare and fascinating artifact from the early days of emo and indie rock. At the time, American Football was an up-and-coming band from Illinois, comprised of three high school friends: Mike Kinsella on drums, Steve Lamos on bass, and Nate Kinsella (Mike's brother) on guitar. The band's self-titled debut album had just been released in September 1999 to critical acclaim, with "Never Meant" being one of its standout tracks.

The video itself is a poignant and understated portrayal of teenage angst, shot in black-and-white by director Chris Strong. It features the band members as themselves, performing the song in a dimly lit room, interspersed with Polaroid photos of two young people - Max Lehman and Melody Sample - who are seemingly at odds with each other. The video's tone is melancholic and introspective, capturing the emotional intensity of the song.

What makes this clip significant is that it offers a glimpse into the early days of emo and indie rock, a genre that would go on to influence a generation of musicians. American Football was one of the pioneering bands in this scene, alongside acts like Braid and Cap'n Jazz. Their music was characterized by its introspective lyrics, complex guitar work, and driving rhythms, which resonated with young people looking for authenticity and emotional depth in their music.

The video's use of Polaroid photos adds a tactile quality to the viewing experience, evoking memories of childhood summers spent developing film in a darkroom. The images of Max Lehman and Melody Sample are particularly striking, capturing the awkwardness and vulnerability of adolescence. Their presence serves as a counterpoint to the band's performance, highlighting the tensions between youth culture and the music that was emerging from it.

Watching this video today is like stepping into a time capsule, transporting viewers back to the late 1990s when emo and indie rock were still finding their footing. American Football's "Never Meant" is more than just a song - it's a snapshot of a particular moment in musical history, one that continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike.

The video's rarity also adds to its allure, making it a prized find for collectors and enthusiasts. With only 4:43 minutes of footage, it's a concise yet powerful statement from the band, capturing their early spirit and energy. As such, this clip is not just a nostalgic relic but a testament to the enduring power of music to capture the human experience.

In conclusion, American Football's "Never Meant" official music video is a must-watch for anyone interested in the history of emo and indie rock. Its understated yet powerful portrayal of teenage angst continues to resonate today, offering a poignant reminder of the emotional depth that music can convey.

Curated from public records and music databases.