From empty pools to pink-lit hallways, Los Angeles’ grimiest and most iconic motels have become unexpected backdrops for some of alternative and pop music’s most memorable visuals. Whether it’s a pop-punk cannonball, a hazy hookup, or a moody montage, these locations lend cinematic grit and charm to every frame. Here are 7 music videos filmed at the Pink Motel and Hollywood Premiere Motel—two unlikely stars of the music video world.
Halsey — “Hurricane” & “Ghost” (Pink Motel)
Halsey shot not one but two music videos from her Badlands era at the Pink Motel. Unlike other music videos on this list, “Hurricane” and “Ghost” feature the inside of the motel rooms more than the bright pink outside. After all, they do make the ideal sleazy hook-up spots, TBH.
The White Noise — “I Lost My Mind (In California)” (Pink Motel)
The White Noise is a California melodic post-hardcore band, so it only makes sense to go full LA for their song “I Lose My Mind (In California).” The entirety of their 2017 music video, out via Fearless Records, takes place at the Pink Motel (and its empty pool) as well as its vintage diner counterpart, Cadillac Jack’s.
DE’WAYNE — “highway robbery” (Pink Motel)
It may have been called the “June Motel” in DE’WAYNE’s “highway robbery” music video, but the filming location is none other than the Pink Motel. It offers the perfect pink and purple background to pair with the sunsets of this soulful song.
Sum 41 — “In Too Deep” (Pink Motel)
Many iconic music videos were shot at the Pink Motel, but this may arguably be the most beloved one for pop-punk fans. Sum 41’s “In Too Deep” was shot primarily in Sun Valley, California, and they shot their famous empty pool scenes at the Pink Motel. Unfortunately, the diving pool featured in the video, the Industry Hills Aquatic Club, has been demolished.
The Aces — “Physical” (Pink Motel)
For long-time fans of The Aces, you’ll love seeing this throwback music video for “Physical” from way back in 2017. The indie-pop quartet utilizes the Pink Motel to craft a glowing, ethereal, and yes—pink—music video. In several shots, you can catch the iconic neon “Drive In” lights a la Cadillac Jack’s.
mgk — “cliche” (Hollywood Premiere Motel)
mgk is officially in his pop era with the arrival of his new single “cliché.” The artist, a proud Cleveland native, utilizes LA backdrops in his music video, especially one famous site. After he dances through the car wash and on the highway in classic boy band fashion, mgk shows off his sensual side as he and his dance partner show off their moves in the rain in front of the Hollywood Premiere Motel.
Justin Timberlake — “CAN’T STOP THE FEELING!” (Hollywood Premiere Motel)
Justin Timberlake originally recorded this dance-inducing chart-topper for the animated blockbuster Trolls (2016), where he also voices protagonist Branch. As for the “CAN’T STOP THE FEELING!” music video, the “SexyBack” singer opted for many iconic Los Angeles spots, including Randy’s Donuts, Lacy Street Studios, and, you guessed it, Hollywood Premiere Motel. Notably, the swim trunks-clad actor dancing near the motel pool makes the spot look way more inviting than its reviews would let on.
