Kameron Marlowe’s Gut-Wrenching ‘Never Really Know’ Music Video Sheds Light on the Silent Battle of Addiction and the Importance of Support

Kameron Marlowe is bringing his powerful song, “Never Really Know,” to life with a moving music video that sheds light on addiction and encourages others to reach out to help those who may be struggling. 

The Shane Drake-directed clip was filmed in Gallatin, Tennessee and stars Breaking Bad’s RJ Mitte. The storyline follows the song, penned by Marlowe and James McNair, vividly capturing the story of two individuals, Miss Carol and Tommy, who are haunted by addiction.  

Miss Carol’s life as a school teacher with an alcohol problem is depicted in the opening scene. She is seen leaving work and heading to the store where she purchases two large bottles of vodka. While there, she crosses paths with Tommy, who is facing his own battle with prescription drugs. He is facing eviction and attempts to land a job, but ultimately faces rejection.

As the heartbreaking story plays out, Marlowe sings, “Fake a smile, and they tell you lies/ Hide all the pain coming from those eyes/ You never really know what’s going on inside, no/ The sky is sunny, but their world is blue/ Until you walk a mile in their shoes/ You never really know what someone’s going through/ You never really know what someone’s going through…” 

As the video continues, both Miss Carol and Tommy sadly succumb to their illnesses, painfully bringing this verse to life on the screen: “Miss Carol met her match with the bottle/ Tough way to go for a small-town model/ They say, ‘Oh, we thought she was doing fine’/ When they haven’t spoke a word since ’99/ Tommy wound up one headstone over/ Families gather ’round, heavy weight on their shoulder/ And say, ‘Oh, we could’ve done more for them’/ Now all the guilt starts creeping in.” 

Things take an interesting turn near the end when the video begins to rewind, taking viewers back to the beginning scenes. At this point, the other characters in the video have the opportunity to change the outcome for Miss Carol and Tommy by simply asking, “Are you okay?.” 

The “Never Really Know” song and music video serve as a poignant reminder of the struggles many are facing in silence and the importance of checking in on friends, loved ones, or even strangers to offer support. 

“The actors did an incredible job bringing this story to life. Breaking Bad has always been one of my all-time favorite shows, so having RJ involved in this project was amazing. He truly embodied who Tommy is,” Marlowe shared. “I hope this video serves as a reminder to reach out to anyone who’s been on your mind and check in on them.”

“Never Really Know” appears on Marlowe’s outstanding Keepin’ The Lights On album, which was released earlier this year. This track is one of the most impactful songs of the year and is a must-listen.