When Universal Studios Florida opened its gates in 1990, it promised to be an “Active Production studio.” While it may not have reached the level of Hollywood productions, the theme park has hosted its fair share of notable productions over the years. Among them, music videos have found their home within the park’s walls, providing a unique and iconic backdrop for some of the top artists in the industry.
Let’s take a closer look at the history of music videos filmed at Universal Studios Florida and discover some fun facts about these unforgettable productions.
“My Sacrifice” by Creed
One of the most popular and highest-budget music videos filmed at Universal Studios Florida is Creed’s “My Sacrifice.” Released in 2001, this video features the band flooding the streets of New York at Universal Studios to create a stunning cinematic experience. To achieve this effect, the park had to close down sections of New York Street and fill them with water to create the illusion of a flooded city.
Throughout the video, viewers can spot familiar landmarks from the park, including the Palace Arcade and Mel’s Drive-In. The most memorable scene is when lead singer Scott Stapp rows down the street in a boat as his bandmates appear to be drowning. Despite not being a fan of the band, any theme park enthusiast can appreciate the unique experience of seeing Universal Studios Florida transformed into a “flooded city.”
“I Want You Back” by NSYNC
In 1995, just two years after their first-ever performance at Pleasure Island in Downtown Disney, NSYNC made their return to Orlando to film their music video for “I Want You Back.” The video features shots of members Justin Timberlake, JC Chasez, Chris Kirkpatrick, Joey Fatone, and Lance Bass dancing and singing down New York Street at Universal Studios.
Fans can spot iconic landmarks from the park, such as the Palace Arcade and the NBC Media Center, in the background. The aerial shot of the hubcap is also a memorable moment in the video, capturing the energetic and youthful vibe of the song.
“Fruitcakes” by Jimmy Buffett
One of the lesser-known music videos filmed at Universal Studios Florida is “Fruitcakes” by Jimmy Buffett. Released in 1994, this video features Buffett driving his convertible down the streets of Universal Florida, singing about his love for “fruitcakes.”
While this may seem like a mundane premise for a music video, it becomes more intriguing when you consider that the park is open 365 days a year. As a result, guests may have had to dodge out of the way of Buffett’s speeding car as he filmed this production during park hours.
Despite its odd concept, this music video captures the unique energy and quirkiness of Universal Studios Florida, making it a must-watch for any theme park aficionado.
“All That Theme Song”
For those who grew up watching Nickelodeon in the ’90s, the iconic theme song for “All That” may bring back some nostalgic memories. However, what many do not know is that the music video for this beloved show’s theme song was filmed at Universal Studios Florida.
Released in 1994, this video features the show’s cast dancing and singing through different sections of Universal Studios, including New York Street and Hollywood Boulevard. Guests can spot famous landmarks like Mel’s Drive-In and the Palace Arcade, as well as unexpected moments like the cast riding on roller skates through the park.
Honorable mentions
While these are the standout music videos filmed at Universal Studios Florida, there are a few honorable mentions worth noting. These include “Bye Bye Bye” by NSYNC (also filmed at Universal Florida), “In Too Deep” by Sum 41 (filmed at Universal Studios Hollywood), and “Larger Than Life” by Backstreet Boys (filmed at Universal Studios Hollywood).
These productions all offer a glimpse into the magic of Universal Studios theme parks and highlight the creative possibilities that can come to life within their boundaries.
In conclusion, Universal Studios Florida may not have reached the level of a “new Hollywood” as promised, but it has definitely made its mark in the entertainment industry. From music videos to TV shows and movies, the park has served as a unique and unforgettable backdrop for countless productions. Who knows what other iconic music videos might be filmed at Universal Studios Florida in the future?
Have you ever visited Universal Studios Florida and recognized any of the landmarks featured in these music videos? If you could choose any artist or band to film a music video at Universal Studios Florida, who would it be and why?
