Michelle Branch Says Maren Morris Came Up with Idea for New ‘Goodbye to You’ Video Inspired by “Laguna Beach” (Exclusive)

Michelle Branch and Maren Morris have joined forces to give a fresh spin to Branch’s 2002 classic, “Goodbye to You.” The newly recorded duet is set to feature prominently on Branch’s upcoming EP, *Everywhere and Back Again*, which is slated for release on 4 November. This collaboration highlights the powerful synergy between the two artists, further enhanced by an engaging music video that draws inspiration from the iconic MTV reality show, *Laguna Beach*.

In an exclusive interview with *PEOPLE*, Branch revealed that the project initially began with a different vision. “I had asked Maren to lead the track,” the 43-year-old singer said, expressing her intent to keep her contributions subtle. However, Morris had other ideas. “She said, ‘Michelle, I want to hear more of you. What if you take a verse? It should be a duet.’ And it turned out perfectly,” Branch recounted.

The music video, inspired by the renowned prom night episode of *Laguna Beach*, features appearances from Kristin Cavallari, star of the original series. The storyline unfolds with Morris and Cavallari preparing for prom, while Branch makes a distinctive entrance in a Mojito! Jeep Wrangler, complete with a whimsical goldfish in a wine glass — a nod to a memorable promposal from the show.

As the video progresses, viewers are treated to scenes of the trio enjoying a fun-filled day, complete with hair styling from Redken and a glamorous ride in a limo. The playful antics continue as they indulge in drinks from a bedazzled flask, capturing memories with digital cameras that evoke nostalgia amid the chaotic energy of prom night.

Branch gave credit for the video’s concept to Maren Morris. “Even before we went in the studio, she texted with the idea to spoof the prom scene from *Laguna Beach*,” Branch said. Morris gracefully reached out to Cavallari, who eagerly agreed to join the project, much to Branch’s delight.

Reflecting on the experience of the shoot, Branch commented, “Anytime you get three women together, there’s a chance it could go awry, but I was pleasantly surprised.” She had not met Cavallari prior to the filming, which initially left her concerned about the atmosphere on set. However, the reality proved favourable, with Branch describing both Morris and Cavallari as laid-back and easy to work with.

The charm and chemistry shared among the three women was evident throughout the shoot. “Kristin is incredibly chill and really game for all of it,” Branch noted. “There was no diva behaviour from either of them; it was all about collaboration.” This pleasant experience led Branch to believe that a friendship with Cavallari could blossom: “We were both mothers living in Nashville, and it made me wonder why we had never hung out before.”

The authenticity of the project was further emphasised by the tech used during filming. According to Branch, the director Jason Lester employed the same types of cameras used during *Laguna Beach*, which helped create a nostalgic feel that resonates with fans of the show. “It was a brilliant decision by Maren to tap into that nostalgia,” she said.

In a delightful twist, the women had fun on set with the digital cameras that were utilised, capturing candid moments that reflected the era’s style. “I hadn’t realised the camera worked; it led to some adorable photos that truly capture the spirit of the time,” Branch shared, highlighting the genuine joy expressed during filming.

“Goodbye to You” marks the second single from Branch’s forthcoming EP, following her collaboration with New Radicals on “The Game of Love.” Ahead of the EP release, Branch is set to initiate a North American tour, which kicks off on 27 September, further amplifying the excitement surrounding her music.

With her collaboration with Maren Morris and the nostalgic nod to *Laguna Beach*, Michelle Branch is not just revisiting a cherished hit; she’s crafting new memories while reconnecting with the past, promising fans an experience that’s both fresh and familiar.