Tears for Fears - Raoul and the King of Spain

What this video is

Released in October 1995, 'Raoul and the Kings of Spain' arrived at a pivotal transitional moment for Tears for Fears: a band that had defined 1980s synth-pop now operating as a Roland Orzabal solo-led project exploring Spanish heritage and familial identity. The album — their fifth — marked a deliberate departure from electronic textures toward organic, guitar-forward arrangements. The video's use of the Mission…

Why it matters

Represents the mid-90s trajectory of first-generation British synth-pop acts (Tears for Fears, Depeche Mode, Pet Shop Boys) pivoting toward alternative rock credibility. The single appeared on an album that charted higher in continental Europe than in the UK or US, reflecting shifting…

The director

American director and producer, UK-born, with offices in London, Prague, Los Angeles, and New York. Active for over 20 years in music video, commercial, and film direction. Music video credits include work for Boyz II Men, All-4-One, Phil Collins, Westlife,…