Synopsis

Set in a shadowy apartment building, the video turns "What Would Happen" into a sensual story of attraction and hesitation. Meredith Brooks and a man are drawn toward one another, yet repeatedly avoid making their feelings explicit. Their encounters unfold amid deep reds, smoky interiors, and close-up images that emphasize the song's intimate mood. The tension builds around the possibility of crossing a line, giving the video the atmosphere of a romantic fantasy rather than a straightforward love story.

Factoids & Trivia

• "What Would Happen" was released as the third single from Brooks' 1997 album, Blurring the Edges, following "Bitch" and "I Need."

• Brooks is credited as the song's sole writer. David Ricketts produced the track, with Josh Freese playing drums and Paul Bushnell contributing bass.

• The video was described in contemporary Billboard coverage as a visually rich blend of seduction and fantasy, and received a B grade in the magazine's video review.

• The song reached No. 46 on the Billboard Hot 100, No. 49 on the UK Singles Chart, and No. 89 in Australia.

• The official video was remastered in high definition and reissued on Brooks' official YouTube channel in January 2023.

• The single's physical releases included several alternate versions, including a Universal mix and a live acoustic version of "Bitch."