Video Premiere: Nellie McKay, “Beneath The Underdog”

Videos by American Songwriter

Check out this brand new video for Nellie McKay’s frankly gorgeous “Beneath The Underdog,” from her latest album, Home Sweet Mobile Home. We asked the quirky New York City songstress about the song’s origins, and filming the video. Did you know she was once expelled from clown school? I know, we can’t believe it either.

What inspired the song?

The idea that often the less you have, the happier you are. That possibility is more enticing than reality.

What inspired the video?

I was wondering, is being fired a blessing or a curse? Also, I was expelled from clown school.

Have you ever been chewed out at work like that?

Not just at work… hardly a day goes by when I don’t hear something from somebody complaining about something.

What’s it like to shoot a video on the streets of New York City?

Oh, well… actually, it was all shot in studio… we had a great special effects guy!

Is that your dog?

Yes. Her name is Bessie and she puts up with a lot.

What else is going on – what sort of projects are you working on now?

We are editing our next video, preparing to tour with ‘I Want to Live!,’ and finishing a pot holder I’ve been crocheting.