When it comes to successful long-term relationships between director and client (and these are very rare), the one between Playtime director, James Chappell, and Guy Sebastian stands on a very high tier. It has now won its second ARIA for Best Music Video in a row.

The 2020 Best Music Video ARIA Award is for Standing With You. Last Year’s was for Choir.

Standing With You is the story of bravery during testing times and the power of human connection to be a constant for overcoming fear and instilling hope.

Chappell commented, “It’s been a crazy year but we managed to shoot this film right after lockdown in June. Receiving this industry recognition is very special. I’m so pleased for Guy, who is one of our country’s most hardworking vocal artists, and I’m excited to share this win with him.”  

Oliver Lawrance, executive producer, Photoplay/Playtime, added, “We are thrilled for James’ ARIA Awards success. To win this highly competitive award for a second year running is testament to his impressive skills as a cinematic storyteller and strong performance director.” 
 
Chappell has shot the past five music videos for the celebrated Australian performer. As well as the current hit, he has directed Choir, Let Me Drink, Before I Go and Love on Display.

Chappell’s most recent work includes campaigns NRLW Incomparable for Host/Havas and Lung Foundation Australia’s Walk in My Shoes for OPR Agency. Other recent music videos include, C’MON for Amy Shark featuring Travis Barker and Legion for Blasterjaxx, which was a branded collaboration with Ubisoft’s game Watch Dogs: Legion.

View Chappell’s bio and work here.