Drifting Through Light and Emotion
In mid-2018, renowned DJ and producer Martin Garrix collaborated with American singer-songwriter Khalid to create the emotive track Oceans. To complement the song’s deep, introspective tone, there was a need for a music video that visually captured its emotional weight. PHNTM, alongside creative partners Damian Karz and Black Lake, was entrusted with bringing this vision to life. The challenge was clear: conceptualize, produce, and finalize a compelling music video within a stringent nine-day timeframe while transforming an abandoned warehouse near Toronto into a cinematic dreamscape.
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PHNTM led the production, crafting a series of four distinct environments within the warehouse, each reflecting the evolving emotional layers of the track. By leveraging innovative lighting techniques, layered set designs, and a fluid visual narrative, the video seamlessly guided viewers through an ethereal, immersive journey. With precise execution and creative synergy between all teams, PHNTM ensured that the final product aligned with Martin Garrix’s artistic vision, despite the rapid production timeline.
The resulting music video became a global success, captivating audiences with its striking cinematography and atmospheric storytelling. The combination of Khalid’s soulful presence and the visually arresting aesthetics elevated Oceans beyond a typical music video, turning it into a deeply engaging experience. The video amassed over 302 million views, reinforcing the song’s worldwide impact and further solidifying both Martin Garrix and Khalid’s influence in contemporary music.
