BOSCO Releases Cinematic Music Video for Single “Shotgun Paradise”
BOSCO’s musical journey began at age five when his mother bought him a cheap Mickey Mouse guitar. From that humble start, BOSCO has traveled a long and diverse road, exploring genres like folk rock, pop, blues, jazz, and pure rock ‘n’ roll. BOSCO’s artistry is deeply personal yet universal, making his music resonate with a wide audience. With over 40 years of experience on stage and the road, his music and videos are a raw, unfiltered reflection of a lifetime spent pursuing artistic truth. As he continues to push boundaries, fans can expect a long list of new music and videos that capture the essence of BOSCO—the one and only—while continuing to evolve his sound and message.
“Shotgun Paradise” begins an exciting new chapter for BOSCO. It’s more than just a song—it’s the first in a series of stories, protests, and bold statements that showcase his unique voice. With a blend of rebellious energy and thought-provoking narratives, “Shotgun Paradise” sets the tone for what’s to come. It’s a full on, pedal to the metal rocker that showcases BOSCO’s ability to rock steady and rock hard when called upon to do so.
What began as a raw expression of protest evolved into something more when director Jared Sagal took the reins for the music video. Sagal, known for his creative and unconventional approach, transformed “Shotgun Paradise” into a captivating soccer-themed video featuring the talented John Farnworth. In the video, Farnworth performs mesmerizing soccer tricks alongside a young boy, distracting people while the boy pickpockets them, creating a visual metaphor that complements the song’s edgy undertones. While the video offers a playful and cinematic take on the song, the lyrics remain deeply personal to BOSCO, reflecting on a specific moment of violence and the broader themes of power and protest.
Bosco AND music video director Jared Sagal discussed the creative process and more.
What inspired you to write “Shotgun Paradise,” and how does it reflect your artistic vision in the rock genre?
I was scrolling one day and saw an article about John Fetterman chasing an innocent black man down the street with a shotgun. I got angry and so much emotion filled me I had to write.
I wrote Shotgun Paradise. As far as the genre I tried a different approach on this one because I wanted to appeal to everyone. It needed to be heard. I asked everyone available to me to pitch in with ideas and they did! Shotgun paradise was born. Teamwork does make the dream work.
How does “Shotgun Paradise” differ from your previous rock tracks, and what new elements did you incorporate into this song?
Shotgun Paradise is different in a lot of ways to start with. That’s why I like working with Jared on videos. It’s a song about real life vs storytelling. It’s an S.O.S. A cry for help to stop the violence. A stark warning to be wary of corruption. From the pov of a brother. The video gives you a living take on all of that. Each time you watch it. It will speak to you differently. Jared Sagal the video director truly is a genius. This video reflects that.
Can you describe the process of creating the music for “Shotgun Paradise”? What were the key influences behind the sound and lyrics?
This is where Ken Dudley of Cottonwood Studio comes in. Gimme something great Ken! He did. He played a couple of notes. Got a beat going and sent me home with it. I took all of my writing and compiled it into shotgun paradise. After that, it was maybe 6 more trips. Adding parts making it sound good and sending it to the world.
The song features a high-energy rock vibe—what emotions or themes were you aiming to capture in the track?
People are hurting. Every day our young folks are getting into preventable trouble.
Incarcerated by a system designed to beat us down. I wanted that urgency reflected in Shotgun Paradise. I wanted to be that voice to protect As a friend or brother. We’re all in this together
How did you collaborate with John Farnworth for the music video? What made him the perfect fit for the role in “Shotgun Paradise”?
Jared Sagal had an idea for the video and the next thing I know John Farnworth is kicking in front of me. From what I know. John is real. A true go-getter. A graduate of the school of hard knocks. A popular icon in the younger generation. Perfect
How do the visuals in the music video enhance the song’s message? What role does John Farnworth play in bringing the story to life?
I didn’t make the visuals. I can only tell you what they mean for me.
Be careful. Choose wisely. Listen to Mom! That lemon in the end is not a good gift.
What were the main concepts or themes you wanted to explore in the “Shotgun Paradise” music video, and how did they align with the song’s energy?
Jared: After spending some time with the song while I was living in Manchester, UK I felt it just had this epic sinister energy that required the same type of music video theme. I knew I wanted to use my friend and famous football freestyler John Farnworth but just wasn’t sure how. I then started to think about how cool a football-themed pickpocket story would be especially with the backdrop of Manchester which is of course football mad.
Were there any particular challenges or highlights during the filming of the music video with John Farnworth?
Jared: Anytime you’re shooting a video in a public space there are multiple challenges and this was no exception. We needed to try and convince some locals to be extras in the video but that required me to tell them they were going to be pickpocketed. You can imagine the trepidation these extras had when you said that this kid was going to go into your back pocket and pretend to steal your wallet. In the end, we found enough willing participants to pull it off.
How does the music video for “Shotgun Paradise” reflect the overall vibe and message of the song? What do you hope viewers take away from it?
Jared: I hope that fans of Bosco will be both entertained by the incredible talents of John Farnworth and also connect with the power, energy, and fury of Bosco’s music. He’s such a unique storyteller that the world deserves to hear more from him
What was the most exciting or rewarding aspect of working on the “Shotgun Paradise” music video, and how does it fit into your broader career goals?
Creating is the reward. I love creating content. I just hope to save lives with it and give power back to the people with no reason to live. Work with Jared on more videos, live the good life and start touring!
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About the Author
Dr. Jerry Doby Editor-in-Chief of The Hype Magazine, Media and SEO Consultant, Journalist, Ph.D. and retired combat vet. 2023 recipient of The President's Lifetime Achievement Award. Partner at THM Media Group. Member of the U.S. Department of Arts and Culture, the United States Press Agency and ForbesBLK.
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