Synopsis

James Iha appears in a subdued suburban setting that matches the song's gentle, homespun mood. The video favors everyday surroundings and understated performance imagery over a conventional narrative, presenting Iha as a solitary singer-songwriter rather than a larger-than-life rock star. Its quiet pacing and unshowy visual style reflect the song's message of offering comfort to someone struggling with loneliness and low self-esteem.

Factoids & Trivia

• "Be Strong Now" was the only music video made for Iha's 1998 solo album, "Let It Come Down."

• Iha described the song as an imaginary love song about a deeply depressed girl with very low self-esteem and the support she might receive from someone close to her.

• The single was issued as a four-track release featuring three additional studio recordings: "Falling," "My Advice," and "Take Care."

• The song and video marked a striking change of image for Iha, moving away from the heavier Smashing Pumpkins sound toward gentle pop, country-tinged singer-songwriter music, and 1970s-inspired arrangements.

• Recording for the related single took place at Bugg Studios in Chicago. Iha handled the main creative work, with Jim Scott also contributing production and mixing.

• The video was part of the music-video programming circulated by outlets including JBTV and RAGE in early 1998.