Music videos are all about visual storytelling and emotional amplification, and the inclusion of classic cars helps to accomplish both. The classic International Scout is an iconic piece of Americana that fits numerous storylines, especially those related to ruggedness and durability. Over the years, the vintage IH Scout has appeared in various music videos and movies, adding a unique charm and character to each scene.
After seeing how popular the Ford Mustang and Chevy K5 Blazer have been on screen, it was worth noting that the classic International Scout can hold its own in the world of pop culture. With that in mind, here are some excellent examples of the IH Scout rocking out in country music videos and making on-screen appearances in music-related movies.
“Chicken Fried” by Zach Brown Band
Classic International Scout II in Zac Brown Band’s “Chicken Fried” music videoIn Zac Brown Band’s music video for “Chicken Fried,” the classic International Scout makes a powerful appearance. The video, set against a backdrop of rural American life, emphasizes the song’s themes of home, family, and enjoying the little things in life. The Scout’s rugged yet classic design blends seamlessly with the rural aesthetic, evoking a sense of nostalgia and simplicity.
“If You’re Going Through Hell” by Rodney Atkins
Scout 80/800 in “If You’re Going Through Hell” by Rodney AtkinsIt’s never a good look to show a vehicle broken down, but the classic International Scout in the video for Rodney Atkins’ “If You’re Going Through Hell” is a perfect fit for this song. The message is about perseverance and pushing through tough times, and the Scout’s robust, enduring design perfectly aligns with this theme. This visual representation enhances the song’s inspirational message, making the Scout a metaphor for durability and steadfastness in the face of adversity.
“The One That Got Away” by Jake Owen
Modified Scout II in “The One That Got Away” by Jake OwenJake Owen’s song “The One That Got Away” nostalgically reflects youthful romance and carefree summer days. For car enthusiasts, it can also drum up memories of that one car they never should have sold. The International Scout, featured prominently in the video, is a visual metaphor for freedom and adventure. The Scout embodies the quintessential summer getaway vehicle with a classic, open-top design that perfectly portrays the imagery of cruising along the coast, wind in your hair, without a care in the world. This vehicle, with its timeless appeal, becomes a character in the story, symbolizing those unforgettable summers and the one who “got away.”
Bonus: Movies
Sadly, there are no Scouts in the music video for Craig Morgan’s song International Harverster, which focuses on an IH tractor, but we did find some in music-focused movies with major star power.
Empire Records
Joey Lauren Adams and Liv Tyler share a scene with the Classic International Scout in “Empire Records”The classic International Scout appears in the cult classic Empire Records, a film that encapsulates the angst and energy of 1990s youth culture. In the movie, prominent actors Joey Lauren Adams and Liv Tyler share an important scene in the Scout. The truck itself serves as a visual marker of rebellion and nonconformity, fitting perfectly with the film’s themes of self-expression and defiance against the mundane as well as The Man. The Scout’s presence is subtle but impactful, and it adds to the overall mood of edgy independence through its rugged exterior and throwback style.
Song to Song
Terrence Malick’s Song to Song is a star-studded film set against the backdrop of the Austin, Texas, music scene. In a movie that explores love, ambition, and artistic struggles, the Scout represents a sense of authenticity. The classic International Scout makes several appearances throughout the film, including several with Ryan Gosling and Natalie Portman; Cate Blanchet, Val Kilmer, and Holly Hunter also appear in the movie, as do artists such as Red Hot Chili Peppers, Iggy Pop, Patti Smith, and more. The Scout, as seen in Song to Song, is more than just a prop—it’s a piece of Americana that complements the film’s exploration of artistic connection and self-discovery.
Velocity International Scout II
Velocity is launching its Signature Series International Scout II restomod in 2025, and you can reserve your build allocation today.Since 2017, Velocity has been crafting stunning Scout restomods, including the Scout 80/800, Scout II, and even the Scout Traveler. And now Velocity is gearing up for something even more significant—taking reservations for the first-ever Signature Series IH Scouts. For enthusiasts looking to build their dream Scout, the search for a perfect modernized classic Scout ends at Velocity Restorations. With delivery set for spring 2025, the countdown to owning one of these exclusive machines has officially begun!