Top 10 Best Music Videos
Introduction
Music videos have come a long way since their inception in the 1980s. They are no longer just a way to promote a song, but a form of art that can stand on its own. As a music enthusiast, I’ve watched countless music videos and I have to say, some are just plain amazing. In this article, I will be sharing my top 10 best music videos of all time. So, buckle up and let’s take a ride through some of the best visual and musical experiences of our time.
Top Statistics and Interesting Information
- According to a survey conducted by Billboard, 82% of music fans watch music videos on YouTube.
- Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” is the most viewed music video on YouTube, with over 7 billion views.
- Beyoncé has the most music videos with over 100 million views on YouTube.
- The MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) has been honoring the best music videos since 1984.
- Music videos have been known to influence fashion trends, dance moves, and even political views.
Top 10 Best Music Videos
Thriller by Michael Jackson
There’s no denying that “Thriller” is the king of all music videos. Released in 1983, this 13-minute long video directed by John Landis changed the game for music videos. It was more like a mini-movie than a music video, with its horror-themed storyline, dance sequences, and incredible special effects. It was a cultural phenomenon that solidified Michael Jackson as the King of Pop.
Formation by Beyoncé
Beyoncé’s “Formation” was not just a music video, it was a political statement. Released in 2016, the video addresses police brutality, Hurricane Katrina, and the Black Lives Matter movement. It features Beyoncé and a group of women dressed in Black Panther-inspired outfits, and showcases the beauty and resilience of Black culture.
Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It) by Beyoncé
This iconic video from Beyoncé features her and two backup dancers performing a synchronized dance routine in black leotards. It became a cultural phenomenon and inspired countless parodies and memes. The video won three awards at the 2009 MTV VMAs, including Video of the Year.
November Rain by Guns N’ Roses
Released in 1992, “November Rain” is a power ballad that tells a tragic love story. The video features Axl Rose getting married to his then-girlfriend Stephanie Seymour, and ends with her funeral. It also features an epic guitar solo by Slash in the middle of a rainstorm. The video cost over $1.5 million to make, making it one of the most expensive music videos of all time.
Sledgehammer by Peter Gabriel
“Sledgehammer” was released in 1986 and was groundbreaking for its use of stop-motion animation. The video features Peter Gabriel singing and dancing alongside a variety of animated objects, including fruit, a raw chicken, and even his own face. It won nine MTV VMAs in 1987, a record that still stands today.
Take On Me by A-ha
This video from the Norwegian band A-ha was released in 1985 and is known for its innovative use of rotoscoping, a form of animation where live-action footage is traced over to create a cartoon-like effect. The video features a comic book artist who gets pulled into a world of his own creation, where he falls in love with a woman. It won six MTV VMAs in 1986.
Sabotage by Beastie Boys
Directed by Spike Jonze, “Sabotage” is a parody of 1970s cop shows, complete with fake mustaches, car chases, and cheesy graphics. The video features the members of Beastie Boys playing different characters, including detectives and criminals. It’s a fun and energetic video that perfectly captures the spirit of the Beastie Boys.
Hurt by Johnny Cash
“Hurt” is a cover of a song by Nine Inch Nails, but it’s Johnny Cash’s version and its accompanying video that truly stand out. The video features footage of Cash’s life, from his early days to his final years, interspersed with shots of him singing in a dark room. It’s a haunting and emotional video that perfectly captures the pain and regret in the song’s lyrics.
This Is America by Childish Gambino
Released in 2018, “This Is America” is a powerful commentary on race, violence, and gun culture in America. The video features Childish Gambino (aka Donald Glover) dancing in front of a series of disturbing and violent scenes, including a mass shooting and police brutality. It’s a thought-provoking and impactful video that sparked a national conversation.
Weapon of Choice by Fatboy Slim
Directed by Spike Jonze, “Weapon of Choice” features actor Christopher Walken dancing and flying around an empty hotel lobby. The video is a showcase of Walken’s incredible dance skills and comedic timing, and it won six MTV VMAs in 2001.
My Personal Experience
I remember watching “Thriller” for the first time when I was a kid, and being absolutely mesmerized by it. The dance sequences, the makeup, the special effects – it was like nothing I had ever seen before. As I grew older, I discovered other music videos that blew me away, like “November Rain” and “This Is America”. But “Thriller” will always hold a special place in my heart.
Expert Quotes
“Music videos are a way for artists to express themselves in a visual medium, and some have done it better than others. In my opinion, ‘Thriller’ and ‘Formation’ are two of the most impactful and influential music videos of all time.”
“The best music videos are the ones that can stand on their own as a piece of art, even if you take away the music. ‘Sledgehammer’ and ‘Take On Me’ are perfect examples of this.”
FAQs
What makes a great music video?
A great music video should be visually stunning, emotionally impactful, and memorable. It should add another layer of meaning to the song and enhance the listener’s experience.
Why are music videos important?
Music videos are important because they can introduce new fans to an artist or a song, and they can also provide a way for fans to connect with the music on a deeper level. They can also be a platform for artists to express themselves creatively and visually.
What is the most expensive music video ever made?
The most expensive music video ever made is “Scream” by Michael Jackson and Janet Jackson. It cost over $7 million to make.
What is the most viewed music video on YouTube?
The most viewed music video on YouTube is “Despacito” by Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee, with over 7.1 billion views.
What is the oldest music video on YouTube?
The oldest music video on YouTube is “Tunak Tunak Tun” by Daler Mehndi, which was released in 1998.