Synopsis

Todd Rundgren performs "Can We Still Be Friends" in a minimalist studio setting, seated at a piano and singing directly to the camera. The performance is interrupted and complemented by a ballerina dancing on top of the piano, turning the otherwise straightforward presentation into an eccentric piece of late-1970s pop theater. The contrast between Rundgren's intimate delivery and the dancer's surreal movements gives the video a playful visual identity while reflecting the song's bittersweet attempt to find grace after the end of a relationship.

Factoids & Trivia

• The video was made to promote the single from Rundgren's 1978 album "Hermit of Mink Hollow." The original promotional clip was later restored and made available through Rhino's official video channel.

• Rundgren said the song was not written about one specific person, despite its release following his highly publicized separation from Bebe Buell. He described it instead as an exploration of the most amicable way to end a relationship.

• The single reached No. 29 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it one of Rundgren's most successful solo pop hits.

• The song has been recorded by artists including Robert Palmer, Rod Stewart, Mandy Moore, and Colin Blunstone.

• Robert Palmer's version appeared in 1979 and reached No. 52 on the Billboard Hot 100.

• The original recording was later featured in the 1994 comedy "Dumb and Dumber," for which Rundgren also composed the score.