Jethro Tull Debuts Animated Music Video for 1971 Classic ‘Aqualung’
Sam Chegini-directed clip also features flautist and frontman Ian Anderson
April 1, 2021
Jethro Tull has commemorated the 50th anniversary of its epic tune “Aqualung” with a brand-new animated music video.
Directed by Iranian filmmaker Sam Chegini, the mostly black-and-white clip begins with an illustrated version of the man seen on the original, 1971 “Aqualung” album cover. He, and later several other characters, spend time sitting on a park bench, just as the lyrics describe. The video earnestly tackles more serious issues, too, including poverty, homelessness, and war.
A rotoscoped version of the band’s longtime flautist, frontman, and songwriter Ian Anderson also makes an appearance, rocking out on a guitar in a park.
“At the suggestion of my pal, Jakko Jakszyk of King Crimson, I contacted a young Iranian videographer/director, Sam Chegini,” Anderson said in a statement. “He delivered a unique rendition of the ‘Aqualung’ song with abstract and documentary-type footage. A talented young man with a bright future in the music arts.”
2021 is shaping up to be a big year for Anderson. In addition to celebrating the 50th anniversary of “Aqualung,” he’s reportedly working on a new book of Jethro Tull lyrics called “Silent Singing.” Also on the horizon for the band is “The Zealot Gene,” the band’s first new album in nearly 20 years. It’s release date has not yet been revealed.
