Some may remember Maggie Rogers’s song “Alaska” from the viral video of Pharrell listening to it at his masterclass at NYU Clive Davis Institute, but others may have found this gem through word of mouth or their own discovery. Rogers’s unique sound is wonderful in its own right, inspiring feelings in each person that gives her a listen. Music means something different to each and every one of us. Since our world views are shaped by our unique lives, it’s guaranteed that each person can take something different from Rogers’s music. Her Facebook is home to a heartfelt personal letter from Rogers herself, praising the faults in all of us, and sharing her vision of music and a willingness to experience the world as it happens. In her words, “Sometimes I think it's magic – this thing we can't see, but makes us all feel the same way. When it's real, it raises hair and makes the air taste sweeter.”
“Alaska” now has its music video counterpart, as of October 18th. Directed by Zia Anger, the video is true to her roots as a hiker and environmentalist. Rogers sashays her way through nature, dancing amongst trees and fields. She is dressed comfortably in what we can likely assume is similar to her daily dress, as such, the video feels like a personal peek into her life, her mind. Rogers is joined by others and the video transitions to a party in the woods that seems almost spiritual. A large crowd of people are shown releasing their inhibitions through dance, laughter, and even love. Finally, like a dream, Rogers disappears into nature as though she were a wood nymph.
This writer could tell you how the music sounds and how it made her feel, but you should really experience it for yourself, let the music speak to your own soul, and take from it what you will.
