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Dr. Dre’s “I Need a Doctor” Music Video Is a Powerful Mini-Movie

With Dr. Dre recovering in the hospital from a possible brain aneurysm, fans were leaving comments on one of his classic music videos. The good news is that Dre is recovering and expects to be home soon.

That video of course is “I Need a Doctor”. The 2011 clip featured Dre’s protégé Eminem and songstress Skylar Grey. Video Game YouTuber iFort commented “Praying for you.” Others asked who else was visiting after hearing the news.

The eight minute music video starts with Dr. Dre reflecting back on his career.

Director Allen Hughes on set with Dre

Director Allen Hughes was behind the cameras for this Dr. Dre production. His resume includes The Book of Eli, Menace II Society and Dead Presidents. His Tupac documentary is currently in post-production.

“Everything starts with the artist”

Hughes said this video had “quite a few days of prep work”. Comparing shooting a video to a motion picture, he said they were completely different. Films were “more patient, a process” like creating a shopping list before creating a great meal. With music videos “anything goes”. He contrasted the quicker pace of video prep versus motion pictures. The Book of Eli director always meets with the artist initially.

“Dr. Dre is a gem and a genius”

Director Hughes and Dre had been working together for twenty years. Dre is a “wise man who doesn’t rush into things and wants to make sure things are marinating properly”. Hughes said the artist was laid back and cool.

Dre and Eminem

Million Dollar Budget

A Ferrari 360 Modena features prominently. Dre drives the car down an empty road when it flips. The spectacular crash is an expensive highlight. That event sets up the portion of the video where Dre recovers. Spot Skylar Grey playing a doctor.

Dre and the Ferrari 360 Modena

Awards & Charts

The song went on to be nominated for two 2012 Grammy Awards. Its peak position on the Billboard charts was #4 on March 5, 2011. The main video on YouTube has racked up 415 million views.

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