250 Greatest Music Videos Of All Time
2022 Update
This list of the 250 greatest music videos of all time is ranked through a combination of various different factors. Those include appearances on a critics’ or fans’ list, for winning or being nominated for awards, and for achieving a certain number of views on YouTube. Learn more about the methodology at this link.
The video for R.E.M.'s Man on the Moon is known for its unique visual style, which combines live-action footage with stop-motion animation.
Kiko and the Lavender Moon is a music video that has taken the world by storm with its mesmerizing visuals.
The video for Anymore was popular among country fans, and it cemented Travis Tritt's place as one of the most popular country artists of the early 90s
When We Was Fab provides an intimate look at the impact that The Beatles had on popular culture.
The Highwayman music video is a classic country-western song written by Jimmy Webb and recorded by Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, and Kris Kristofferson.
The Country Boy video has a special place in the hearts of country music fans who fondly remember the good times and simple pleasures that it captured so beautifully.
The video is a powerful commentary on the state of the world and the need for people to take control of their own destiny and fight against those powers that be.
The video has an eerie and mysterious feel to it, which perfectly complements the song’s dark and melancholic lyrics.
This masterpiece showcases A$AP Rocky's unparalleled style and artistic prowess, as he navigates through a cityscape that seems to bend and warp with every beat.
With flashy visuals and a satirical take on the typical music video tropes, Staples invites us into his world while poking fun at the expectations of the genre.
This 15-minute masterpiece showcases the artist's one-of-a-kind creativity, as it takes viewers on a bizarre journey through a series of 1-minute vignettes, each corresponding to a different track on her groundbreaking album.
The music video for "Territory" by The Blaze is nothing short of a cinematic masterpiece.
The video paints a vivid picture of a rave culture filled with hypnotic dances, vibrant colors and captivating human connections.
In the delightfully quirky music video for Want You Back by Haim, we witness an effortlessly cool trio of sisters strutting their stuff down the streets of LA.
Blending elements of high-fashion, contemporary dance, and hypnotic visuals, Glass & Patron is a feast for the eyes and a testament to FKA twigs' boundless creativity.
From the moment the screen flickers to life, M.I.A. and a sea of asylum-seekers are seen scaling barbed wire fences, crammed onto rickety boats, and trudging through murky waters.
Set in a luxurious beachside abode, our sultry songstress takes us on a dreamy journey, complete with sweeping ocean views and sun-drenched interiors.
Directed by renowned fashion photographer Steven Klein, the video showcases the unique and unapologetic style of the avant-garde singer, as she navigates through opulent settings and interacts with a cast of diverse and intriguing characters.
This artistic masterpiece showcases a group of talented female roller skaters gliding effortlessly along a dimly lit highway, creating a mesmerizing display of synchronized movements.
In a striking display of dystopian visuals and enigmatic beats, the music video for "Pursuit" by Gesaffelstein transports viewers into a world where power, control, and mystery reign supreme.
This enchanting spectacle transports you to a mystical realm, where the lines between reality and fantasy blur seamlessly.
In the visually stunning and captivating music video for Q.U.E.E.N., Janelle Monáe takes us on a vibrant journey through her quirky and stylish world.
In a glorious display of teenage rebellion, Lorde's music video for "Royals" is a tongue-in-cheek critique of mainstream pop culture.
Set against the backdrop of the band's catchy and uplifting tune, this visual delight is brimming with hilarious antics, unexpected twists, and a heartwarming resolution
The video's eclectic blend of vintage clips, psychedelic effects, and the duo's enigmatic presence creates a swirling vortex that draws you into its eye.
As the video transitions to the adult Danny Brown, his energetic performances and bold personality prove that he's truly embraced his inner child.
In a mesmerizing blend of chaos and creativity, the music video for Baby's on Fire by Die Antwoord takes viewers on a wild ride through the eccentric world of South African rave-rap.
The juxtaposition of her delicate, otherworldly aura against the backdrop of raw, high-energy sports is nothing short of mesmerizing.
The music video for "The Greeks" by Is Tropical is a wild and whimsical ride that showcases the band's quirky sense of humor and artistic flair
Set against the backdrop of a night in the desert, the video is a whirlwind of strobing lights and seductive allure, all tied together by Kanye West's unyielding charisma
In the delightfully witty music video for "Be Good or Be Gone" by Fionn Regan, we're taken on a whimsical journey through an enchanting world filled with quirky characters and surreal landscapes.
As Karen O's eyes well up with tears, the powerful lyrics resonate with anyone who has ever experienced the bittersweet sting of lost love.
Set in a retro-futuristic universe, our protagonist Kelly showcases her mad table tennis skills against a formidable robot challenger.
The video features an anthropomorphic dog wearing a walking cast who roams the streets of New York City with a boombox playing "Da Funk."
The video portrays the violent confrontation between a white police officer and a young black man, who is then pursued by the police, with Zack de la Rocha's vocals amplifying the message of resistance against institutional oppression
Our protagonist, donning a cowboy hat and carrying a boombox, roams through desolate landscapes, bustling city streets, and even finds himself surrounded by a peculiar group of onlookers.
The music video for "In Bloom" is a captivating look into the world of Nirvana and the grunge sound they helped to popularize.
The music video Physical by Olivia Newton-John was a landmark in its time.
I Don't Like Mondays is a great music video that is produced by the Boomtown Rats. This classic was released in 1979 and is still a fan favorite. The music video is set in a post-apocalyptic world and is set up like a short film. It follows a group of
In the sizzling and emotionally charged music video for "Love the Way You Lie," Eminem and Rihanna take us on a rollercoaster ride through the turbulent world of a toxic relationship.
From a mysterious dancer gracefully expressing her pain through movement, to a room filled with rhythmic vibrations from hundreds of water-filled glasses, Adele's anguish is palpable.
The video was directed by Richard Lowenstein, who gave it a gritty, edgy feel that helped to make it stand out.
This music video extravaganza features a star-studded lineup of incredible women from diverse backgrounds, including the likes of Cardi B, Ellen DeGeneres, and Gal Gadot, just to name a few.
The "All Night" video has been praised for its celebration of love and family in all its forms, and for its contribution to Beyoncé's ongoing artistic exploration of black culture, identity, and empowerment.
The Freedom video is widely regarded as one of Beyoncé's most important and impactful works, and has been praised for its contribution to the ongoing fight for racial justice and equality.
Throughout the video, we're treated to a cornucopia of peculiar yet fascinating imagery, keeping us hooked to the very last frame.
The fierce fivesome dons an array of stylish workwear as they command the attention of some seriously chiseled laborers, proving that they can effortlessly lay down the bricks of a chart-topping hit.
The surreal, 10-minute visual odyssey features a blindfolded Bowie, a jewel-encrusted skull, and peculiar creatures that leave viewers entranced.
With its catchy hook and provocative imagery, Lollipop's music video is a delightful sensory overload that leaves you craving for more.
The video plunges us into a world of black, white, and red, as we follow the iconic duo, Jack and Meg White, on a surreal journey through a seemingly endless tunnel of triangles.
Seamlessly weaving together haunting vocals and ethereal visuals, this captivating masterpiece entrances viewers with its dreamlike atmosphere.
As the music pulses and the performers groove, you'll find yourself immersed in a world where business and pleasure harmoniously coexist.
The Pagan Poetry video remains a controversial and provocative piece of art, and is considered by many to be one of Björk's most daring and boundary-pushing works.
The catchy tune, accompanied by the memorable chorus, "I ain't happy, I'm feeling glad, I got sunshine in a bag," is contrasted by the eerie backdrop of eerie graveyard scenes, zombie gorilla invasions, and an omnipresent, sinister spirit.
In the ever-stylish realm of hip-hop, few music videos can hold a candle to the opulent extravaganza that is "Big Pimpin'."
With its engaging visuals, energetic choreography, and Twain's undeniable charisma, the "Man! I Feel Like a Woman!" music video remains a beloved and influential piece of pop culture history.
Madonna, dressed in a flowing black gown with intricate henna tattoos, embodies the ethereal persona of a mysterious, otherworldly figure.
This captivating video showcases the trio's powerful lyrics, soulful harmonies, and infectious beats as they deliver a message of resilience and determination.
This visual extravaganza transports viewers into a zany world of oversized skulls, floating eyeballs, and luminous animations that pulsate in perfect synchrony with the iconic beats.
Interspersed with dynamic performance shots, the music video tastefully combines elements of hip-hop culture and powerful imagery, effectively capturing the essence of the song's message, urging listeners to evaluate their actions and attitude.
The 1992 Remember the Time music video was a tribute to the King of Pop's past, with a number of references to his childhood and career. It featured an all-star cast, including Magic Johnson and Eddie Murphy.
The video's powerful message of racial unity and harmony was seen around the world.
The video perfectly captures LL Cool J’s determination to prove all his haters wrong.
U Can't Touch This, by the one and only MC Hammer, is an iconic song from the early 90s.
The video for Sweet Child O' Mine features some of the band's most iconic images, such as Rose's black hat, Slash's top hat and Duff's tattoos.
Madonna, her dancers, and celebrities express themselves through their movements and costumes, and the video is a celebration of self-expression.
The music video for Twisted Sister's 1984 hit single "We're Not Gonna Take It" is downright cool.
The video is set in a nightclub and features ZZ Top performing the song onstage. The band is seen wearing their iconic sunglasses and Stetson hats. The video also features a number of female dancers and models wearing skimpy outfits, adding to the overall energy of the video.
With its uplifting lyrics and melodic guitar riffs, ‘Jump’ was an instant hit and the music video was just as memorable.
The music video for the track, released in 1988, is a fitting accompaniment to the song, with its use of black and white footage, and the overall bleakness of the imagery.
"Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough" is a great music video that is filled with energy and creativity. The choreography, visuals, and music all combine to create a powerful piece that is sure to stay in viewers' minds for a long time.
Directed by Anton Tammi, the video features a neon-lit cityscape, with the Weeknd speeding through the streets in a vintage convertible.
The Drunk on a Plane video features Dierks Bentley as the lead singer of a wedding band who finds himself stranded on a plane full of rowdy passengers, including his ex-girlfriend who is getting married the next day.
The video's theatrical and whimsical tone perfectly matches the quirky and catchy nature of the song, which blends pop punk and emo sensibilities with a touch of vaudeville flair.
The Dani California video's playful and irreverent tone perfectly matches the spirit of the song, which celebrates the rebellious and adventurous nature of rock and roll.
The Livin' la Vida Loca video's choreography and Ricky Martin's charismatic performance helped to establish him as a major force in the Latin pop music scene.
The Free Your Mind music video is a powerful and moving video that features a powerful message about freedom of self-expression and acceptance of one's identity.
Through a series of humorous skits, Neil Young pokes fun at the world of advertising and consumerism, delivering a powerful message.
Girls on Film has become an iconic music video and a favorite of both fans and critics.
The cinematography and use of natural lighting in Paul Thomas Anderson's video for "Daydreaming" create a surreal and dreamlike atmosphere, perfectly complementing the haunting melody of the song.
The Windowlicker video is known for its surreal and disturbing imagery, as well as its use of visual effects to create the illusion of the man's face morphing.
The music video features the band performing the song in a stark, minimalist setting, with scenes of children being taught in a strict and regimented school interspersed throughout. The video was a huge success, and helped to make "Another Brick in the Wall" one of Pink Floyd's most popular and
Directed by The Daniels, the "Turn Down for What" video is a hilarious and over-the-top celebration of music and dance, with absurd and surreal imagery throughout.
Directed by Romain Gavras, the "No Church in the Wild" video juxtaposes images of violence and destruction with moments of beauty and transcendence, such as a young couple kissing amidst the chaos.
The music video for "Yonkers" by Tyler, The Creator is a provocative and unsettling exploration of the rapper's dark and twisted psyche.
Directed by Joseph Kahn, the "Without Me" video features Eminem and Dr. Dre as comic book-style superheroes battling various pop culture figures and parodies of reality shows.
The "Pynk" video's playful and provocative imagery, which includes a pair of pants shaped like a vagina, is meant to challenge traditional gender norms and celebrate all aspects of femininity.
The "Hello" video features Adele wandering through an abandoned house and reminiscing about a past love, all while singing directly to the camera.
The music video for "If I Die Young" by The Band Perry is a beautiful and haunting tribute to a life cut short.
The "Uptown Funk" video features Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars dressed in flashy outfits as they dance and sing their way through the streets of New York City.
The music video for "Stay" by Sugarland is a poignant and emotional depiction of a relationship on the brink of collapse.
The music video a powerful visual representation of the "Before He Cheats" revenge fantasy, and it's no wonder it has over 120 million views on YouTube.
The Jesus Walks video shows Kanye West engaging in various forms of physical and spiritual struggle, such as wrestling with a man in a Ku Klux Klan hood and carrying a heavy wooden cross through a barren landscape
Throughout the "In da Club" video, 50 Cent is shown performing the song's lyrics with swagger and confidence, as well as engaging in various forms of mischief and mayhem, such as smashing a television set and playing with a flamethrower.
The Get Ur Freak On music video draws on a wide range of influences, from African and Asian culture to futuristic and sci-fi aesthetics, creating a sense of playful and imaginative fun.
The music video for "I Hope You Dance" by Lee Ann Womack, directed by Gary Wenner, features the country singer performing the song against a series of backdrops that evoke the themes of the lyrics.
The music video for Janie's Got a Gun sheds light on the meaning behind the lyrics that many overlook when listening to the song.
The music video for Robert Palmer’s ‘Addicted to Love’ is an iconic piece of music video history.
The music video for "Nobody Speak" is a tongue-in-cheek political satire that imagines a world in which political debates are settled through physical violence.
The music video for "Bound 2" by Kanye West, directed by Nick Knight, features the rapper and his then-fiancée, now ex-wife, Kim Kardashian, in a series of dreamlike, surreal scenes set against a backdrop of majestic natural landscapes.
The California Gurls video show Kety Perry exploring a series of candy-themed landscapes, complete with giant lollipops, cupcake mountains, and gummy bear forests.
Rihanna is shown in a variety of vibrant outfits, ranging from a red leather jacket to a green polka dot dress, as she performs a series of choreographed dance routines with a group of backup dancers.
The Suerte (Whenever, Wherever) video's vibrant colors, lively energy, and Shakira's undeniable charisma helped make it a huge hit when it was released in 2001, and it remains a fan favorite to this day.
The music video for "Oops!... I Did It Again" by Britney Spears, directed by Nigel Dick, is set on Mars and features Spears as a futuristic space explorer who is being watched by a group of astronauts on Earth.
The music video for "Teardrop" by Massive Attack, directed by Walter Stern, features a fetus developing inside a womb, interspersed with shots of an angelic figure floating underwater.
Directed by Magnus Carlsson, the "Paranoid Androis" video features a series of disjointed and bizarre animated sequences, including a man with a television for a head, a giant creature made of garbage, and a group of humanoid creatures being hunted down and killed.
The music video for "Hypnotize" by The Notorious B.I.G. is a stylish and visually stunning tribute to the rapper's lavish lifestyle and rise to fame.
The music video for "Mo Money Mo Problems" by The Notorious B.I.G., featuring Diddy and Mase, is a lavish and celebratory visual representation of the song's themes of fame and excess.
The music video for "What They Do" by hip-hop group The Roots is a satirical commentary on the music industry and the portrayal of rappers in the media.
The "It's All Coming Back to Me Now" video's opulent aesthetic, dramatic camera angles, and sweeping landscapes perfectly capture the song's grandiose emotional themes, while Céline Dion's soaring vocals and impassioned performance add a sense of urgency and longing.
Directed by Mariah Carey herself, the "Fantasy" video features her driving through the streets of New York City in a red convertible, before being transported to a surreal amusement park where she rides roller coasters, dances with friends, and flirts with a handsome young man.
The video's kinetic energy is matched by Björk's infectious performance, as she dances and twirls in a billowing orange dress, surrounded by a diverse group of dancers and revelers.
The video for If I Could Turn Back Time was iconic, featuring Cher in a skimpy black outfit, singing on the decks of a navy battleship surrounded by sailors.
The music video is designed to emphasize the song's themes of the struggles of rural America and the importance of family.
The Pleasure Principle music video was a groundbreaking video and it is still considered one of the best music videos from the 80s.
Hole's "Violet" music video is an iconic representation of the band's grunge-rock sound and chaotic energy.
The music video for "Ain't It Funny" by American musician and comedian, Danny Brown, is a dark and surreal satire of 1990s sitcoms.
Never Catch Me's powerful imagery and moving choreography highlight the fleeting nature of life, and the way in which death can both unite and divide us.
The music video for "Let Forever Be" by The Chemical Brothers is a psychedelic and surreal exploration of the nature of reality and perception.
The video for Triumph features the Wu-Tang Clan rapping their verses while surrounded by a dystopian, post-apocalyptic cityscape.
The "1979" video's grainy, handheld camera style adds to the sense of raw energy and authenticity.
The video for "Just" by Radiohead is a commentary on the struggles of modern life and the need for genuine human connection, with the man's injury serving as a metaphor for the pain and isolation many people experience.
The video for Nuthin' but a 'G' Thang helped to further establish the careers of both Dr. Dre and Snoop (Doggy) Dogg, and it remains one of the most iconic rap videos of all time.
The powerful video, aimed at police brutality and racism, made a huge impact on the hip-hop genre, and its influence is still felt today
The video for Welcome to the Jungle was an instant hit, and helped make the band one of the most popular rock bands of the late 80s.
The combination of the eerie, otherworldly visuals and David Bowie's haunting vocal performance make for a truly memorable and captivating viewing experience.
Mick Rock later explained that "it wasn't so much an idea as a moment in time," clarifying that he "wanted to do something that looked a little bit like a painting."
Leave Me Alone is a classic Michael Jackson music video and one of the most memorable of his career.
"Black Hole Sun," by Soundgarden and directed by Howard Greenhalgh, features surreal and disturbing imagery that depicts a dark and dystopian world.
"Love Story" by American singer Taylor Swift tells a modern-day Romeo and Juliet-style love story.
"Whiskey Lullaby," by Brad Paisley and Alison Krauss, tells a tragic story of love and loss through the lens of alcohol abuse.
"One Mic" emphasizes the importance of using peaceful means to resolve conflicts and encourages the African American community to use their voices to speak out against injustice.
The Cars’ music video for their hit song “You Might Think” is an important piece of music history. Not only did it help the band reach a wider audience, but it was also one of the first popular music videos to incorporate computer animation.
"Bad Blood" Taylor Swift featuring Kendrick Lamar, was directed by Joseph Kahn and features a star-studded cast of female celebrities as Swift's "squad," including Selena Gomez, Cara Delevingne, and Gigi Hadid.
The WAP video features Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion in a lavish and opulent mansion, surrounded by an array of surreal and over-the-top imagery, including tigers and snakes.
The Hotline Bling video takes place in a series of minimalist sets, including a brightly-lit cube and a room full of slowly rotating globes
The video for All the Small Things features Blink-182 performing the song in a brightly lit, white room, while various parodies of popular music videos from the late 1990s and early 2000s are interspersed throughout.
"The Story of O.J." highlights the message of financial empowerment, encouraging African Americans to invest in themselves and their community.
The music video for "Bachelorette" by Björk is a visually stunning and surreal work of art that blurs the boundaries between reality and fantasy.
The Outtasite (Outta Mind) video features Wilco performing in a variety of settings, including a small club, a deserted street, and a beach.
The "Everlong" video features the Foo Fighters performing in a surreal and dreamlike setting, with scenes of lead singer Dave Grohl interacting with a woman who appears in his dreams.
The music video for A Tribe Called Quest's single "Scenario" was an iconic moment in hip-hop.
The music video features Kate Bush as the character Catherine Earnshaw from Emily Brontë's novel of the same name.
The "Heart-Shaped Box" video features Nirvana performing in a surreal and eerie setting, with scenes of the band playing in a white room intercut with footage of a young girl and an old man engaged in various disturbing and unsettling activities.
The Freak on a Leash video features an animated character known as "The Bullet," who travels through the world of the video and interacts with the band members in various ways.
The video for Madonna's "Ray of Light" was directed by Jonas Åkerlund and received critical acclaim for its innovative and visually stunning approach.
Part of the visual album Lemonade, the "Sorry" music video is a powerful and visually stunning production that features music icon Beyoncé showcasing her raw and uncompromising talent.
The video for The White Stripes' Hardest Button to Button was directed by Michel Gondry and received critical acclaim for its imaginative concept and visual style.
With its stunning visuals, enigmatic storyline, and powerful musical performance, the "Karma Police" music video is a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate and intrigue audiences to this day.
No Rain by Blind Melon memorably follows "the bee girl," who wanders a desolate landscape wearing a bee costume.
This powerful video shows how war can strip away a person's identity and leave them with nothing.
The Umbrella video shows Rihanna performing the song in a dark, futuristic setting, with various scenes featuring water, fire, and lighting effects.
The video for Aerosmith's Cryin' features actress Alicia Silverstone as a rebellious teenager who breaks free from the constraints of her suburban life and embarks on a thrilling and dangerous adventure.
The music video for "Blank Space" by Taylor Swift is a playful and self-aware parody of the singer's public persona and the tabloid media's portrayal of her love life.
The "Alright" music video by Kendrick Lamar, directed by Colin Tilley, is a visually striking and politically charged work of art that uses imagery and symbolism to comment on police brutality, racism, and oppression in America.
Set against a backdrop of neon-lit clubs, abandoned warehouses, and sprawling countryside, the video for We Found Love creates a sense of urgency and immediacy, capturing the raw and unpredictable nature of love.
The video is an example of Jackson's creativity and innovation in the music video genre, and it has stood the test of time as a true classic.
Isaak's soulful vocals and Christensen's sultry beauty create an atmosphere of romantic longing and sensuality that is both timeless and captivating.
The music video for Michael Jackson's Beat It is one of the most iconic music videos of all time.
The "Stan" video has been praised for its raw and unflinching look at the darker side of fame and fandom.
The music video for "Montero (Call Me By Your Name)" by Lil Nas X is a visually stunning and provocative exploration of queer identity and self-acceptance.
The Anaconda video features Nicki Minaj and a cast of dancers performing a series of provocative and energetic dance routines, showcasing Minaj's signature curves and unapologetic confidence.
The video prominently features a huge, brightly-colored house, known as the “Love Shack”, which serves as the backdrop of the entire video.
The Perfect Kiss set the standard for future music videos and showed that bands could make videos as artistic and complex as feature films.
Directed by Michel Gondry, the Star Guitar video takes place on a train journey, with the scenery passing by in time with the beat of the music.
Walk This Way was a revolutionary music video which was unlike anything else that came before it.
The "Material Girl" music video was a big step forward in the evolution of music videos and helped Madonna become the superstar she is today.
The video for APESHIT takes place in the Louvre Museum in Paris, with Beyoncé and Jay-Z performing in front of some of the world's most famous works of art.
The music video for "Bye Bye Bye" by *NSYNC is a classic example of the boy band aesthetic of the late 1990s and early 2000s.
The Tarantino-inspired music video for "Telephone" by Beyoncé and Lady Gaga is a cinematic masterpiece that blends elements of pop music, fashion, and film.
The song and video have a bright and energetic feel to them, showcasing Lauper's wild style and colorful personality.
The "Praise You" music video is a classic example of the creativity and humor that made Fatboy Slim a household name in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
With its era-specific visuals and a jangly guitar-driven melody, the video for Loser by Beck serves as a time capsule to the 90s.
The vibrant colors, the bright lighting, and the upbeat music all come together to create a truly memorable music video.
Subterranean Homesick Blues was one of the first "modern" promotional film clips, the forerunner of what was later known as the music video. The original clip was the opening segment of D. A. Pennebaker's film Dont Look Back, a documentary on Dylan's 1965 tour of England. In the film, Dylan, who came up
The video for Wyclef Jean opens with the title card announcing that Young Thug never showed up for the shoot. The rest of the video consists of a series of humorous vignettes that illustrate the challenges of trying to make a music video without the artist.
Beyoncé's artistry as a musician, songwriter, and performer is also on full display in "Hold Up," which has garnered praise and admiration from both fans and critics.
The Gangnam Style music video's quirky humor and infectious energy quickly made it a viral hit, earning billions of views on YouTube and making PSY an international superstar.
The "Runaway" music video is a compelling and memorable production that showcases Kanye West's artistic vision and unique style.
The Smack My Bitch Up music video stirred up controversy upon its release due to its explicit content, but it also earned critical acclaim for its innovative approach to storytelling and immersive cinematography.
Directed by famed filmmaker Hype Williams, the California Love video features a host of memorable images, including fire-breathing monsters, motorcycle gangs, and a giant mechanical scorpion.
The video for Ashes to Ashes by David Bowie has been praised by critics for its creative use of imagery and symbolism. Its combination of surreal visuals and captivatingly dark imagery speak volumes about the song's deeply personal nature.
The "Work It" music video is a high-energy, dance-heavy production that features Grammy-winning rapper Missy Elliott and a diverse cast of dancers showcasing their impressive moves in a variety of colorful, eye-catching settings.
The colorful, sexy music video for "Lady Marmalade" features Christina Aguilera, Lil' Kim, Mya, and Pink performing the hit song from the movie "Moulin Rouge!"
The video for Doo Wop (That Thing) is notable for its juxtaposition of the old-school doo-wop sound and visuals with contemporary urban culture, and for Lauryn Hill's powerful performance and message.
The "Got 'til It's Gone" music video by Janet Jackson, directed by Mark Romanek, is a visually stunning and socially conscious work of art that pays tribute to the resilience of black culture in the face of oppression.
The "Ironic" music video by Alanis Morissette, directed by Stéphane Sednaoui, is a humorous and satirical take on the concept of irony, featuring a series of absurd and unlikely scenarios that are described in the song's lyrics.
The song itself is a testament of the band's creative genius, but the music video takes it to the next level. It features the band members in a desert with a strange, almost robotic dance which perfectly captures the strange and unique sound of the song.
The iconic music video for “Money for Nothing” by Dire Straits is one of the most memorable of all time. Released in 1985, the video was groundbreaking in its use of computer-generated imagery.
The music video Rockit by Herbie Hancock is an important milestone in the history of the form.
The "Bitter Sweet Symphony" music video by the Verve features lead singer Richard Ashcroft walking down a busy street while bumping into and dodging various people.
The song’s lyrics, which are about faith and doubt, are brought to life in the visuals, which slowly become more and more abstract as the video progresses.
The video for "Drop" is shot entirely in reverse, with The Pharcyde lip-synching their lyrics and performing their movements in reverse, while the surrounding environment and people move forward in time.
The video for November Rain features lead singer Axl Rose at a wedding, with his bandmates providing the music.
The music video for "Chandelier" was directed by Sia and Daniel Askill, and it features dancer Maddie Ziegler performing a interpretive dance routine in a dingy apartment.
The "Jeremy" video was nominated for several awards and it is widely regarded as one of the most controversial music videos of all time.
Goodbye Earl was directed by Evan Bernard and features The Chicks performing the song in a country setting, while a woman named Wanda (played by Jane Krakowski) takes revenge on her abusive husband Earl (played by Dennis Franz) with the help of her friend Mary Anne (played by Lauren Holly).
The "Toxic" video features Britney Spears as a seductive and dangerous secret agent, who uses her sexuality and martial arts skills to complete various missions.
The "It's Oh So Quiet" music video by Björk, directed by Spike Jonze, is a visually stunning and surreal production that captures the playful and upbeat energy of the song.
The music video for the song ‘Scream’ by Michael Jackson and Janet Jackson was released in 1995 and remains one of the most iconic and innovative music videos of all time.
"Waiting for Tonight" remains an iconic work of 1990s pop culture, showcasing Jennifer Lopez's talent and charisma as a performer and cementing her status as a global superstar.
The controversial video for ...Baby One More Time became one of the most iconic and memorable of the 1990s, and helped launch Britney Spears' career.
The music video for Come into My World was directed by Michel Gondry and features Kylie Minogue performing the song on a busy city street, while simultaneously appearing in several different parallel universes.
The video for Blur's Coffee & TV was animated using stop-motion techniques and was praised for its creativity and uniqueness.
The music video for Rabbit in Your Headlights was directed by Jonathan Glazer and features Thom Yorke walking through a deserted urban landscape at night, while a car with its headlights on approaches him from behind.
The music video for Aphex Twin's Come to Daddy was directed by Chris Cunningham and is known for its disturbing and unsettling imagery.
Directed by Michel Gondry, the Sugar Water music video follows a group of young people as they explore a mysterious world of surreal imagery and vibrant colors.
The music video features Paula Abdul performing the song with a cartoon character named MC Skat Kat, who was created specifically for the video.
B.O.B. features several people dancing and performing stunts, and incorporates elements of science fiction and fantasy.
Untitled (How Does It Feel) is known for its highly sexualized and provocative nature, with D'Angelo appearing nude or partially clothed throughout.
The Cellophane video's ethereal, dreamlike aesthetic, combined with FKA twigs' raw and emotive performance, creates a haunting and powerful experience for viewers.
Despite the controversy surrounding it, the "Criminal" video cemented Fiona Apple's status as a fearless artist who was unafraid to explore the darker corners of human experience.
The music video for The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly) was directed by Hype Williams and features Missy Elliott performing the song in a futuristic setting, wearing a silver bodysuit and surrounded by dancers.
The Hey Ya! video is set in a fictional club called "The Love Below," and features the members of OutKast dressed in colorful, oversized suits.
Wrecking Ball features Miley Cyrus performing the song wearing a white tank top and underwear, and later naked, swinging on a giant wrecking ball.
The video for Waterfalls visualizes two verses of the song, while intercutting scenes of liquefied versions of TLC performing the song while standing on top of an ocean and in front of a waterfall.
The video was heavily inspired by the traffic jam in the opening dream sequence of Fellini's 8½ and was filmed in downtown San Antonio. Although Michael Stipe is featured prominently in the video, he remains silent until the final "Hold On, Hold On" part of the song.
As it was described in the pop culture book, The 1980s, the video was lush and cinematic, with shots of jungles, rivers, elephants, cafes and marketplaces evoking the atmosphere of the film Raiders of the Lost Ark. Andy Taylor, who contracted a stomach virus serious enough to require hospitalization from accidentally drinking water in the
Due to the research and influence of director Mark Romanek and the videos cinematographer, Joaquin Baca Asay, the video borrows visual characteristics from many New York street photographers and black and white photographs (Martin Dixon and Eugene Richards to name a few). The video is shot entirely on black-and-white film and consists mainly of
The video for Freedom! '90 is known for its elaborate, stylized production and its innovative use of the supermodels as stand-ins for Michael.
"Around the World" was Michel Gondry's first attempt at bringing organized dancing to his music videos. "I was sick to see choreography being mistreated in videos like filler with fast cutting and fast editing, really shallow. I don't think choreography should be shot in close-ups."
Video Killed the Radio Star was the first music video shown on MTV in the US, airing at 12:01 a.m. on 1 August 1981, and the first video shown on MTV Classic in the UK on 1 March 2010.
The music video (directed by Prince himself) was released on MTV in June 1984. The video sparked controversy among network executives, who thought that its sexual nature was too explicit for television.
"Virtual Insanity" is Jamiroquai's best-known music video. It was directed by English filmmaker, director, and screenwriter Jonathan Glazer. At the 1997 MTV Video Music Awards in September 1997, it earned 10 nominations, winning four awards, including "Breakthrough Video" and the "Best Video of the Year."
Fell in Love with a Girl was shot frame by frame with each frame having the Lego bricks rebuilt, sometimes in a complex manner to seem as if it were an actual shot, and then formed together to give the illusion of motion.
The video is often cited as one of the best of all time and a milestone in computer animation.
The video controversially ends with Petty swallowing Alice whole, burping softly, and wiping his mouth with a napkin.
The music video for "Vogue", directed by David Fincher, was shot in black-and-white and takes stylistic inspiration from the 1920s and 1930s.
It introduced a number of Jackson's signatures, including the moonwalk, black sequined jacket, high-water pants, and was widely imitated.
The music video became a big success on the British cable network The Box, which sparked press interest in the group.
Christopher Walken appears as a man in a hotel lobby who awakes from a nap and dances to the song.
HUMBLE. tells of those who have made it in life to remain humble and remember where they came from.
It was once uncommon for bands to create music videos for their music at the time. That changed with Bohemian Rhapsody.
Set in a white bathhouse, the music video for "Bad Romance" tells the story of a woman kidnapped by a group of supermodels who plan to sell her to the Russian Mafia for sexual slavery.
The Smashing Pumpkins released this song in 1996, with Tom Kinney and Jill Talley starring in the video as a couple celebrating a zeppelin reaching the moon.
A commentary on the treatment of BIPOC people in the United States.
The controversial video, "Closer," features the band in what appears to be a mad scientist's laboratory.
The video was stood out amongst the typical high production of the videos for other ballads of the era.
Johnny Cash passed away only 7 months after the video had been completed, making this a sad reminder that we all have a limited amount of time left on earth.
Inspired by a 1969 Bob Fosse Routine called "Mexican Breakfast," this music video features Beyoncé lip-synching and dancing to the track alongside two other women.
A particularly poignant scene featuring Beyoncé dancing on top of a police car flooded by the waters of Hurricane Katrina.
Jackson's record label made numerous attempts to prevent her from filming and releasing the video.
Madonna's "Like A Prayer," which uses symbols she was familiar with from her Catholic upbringing.
Footage from "Happy Days" blends with the band seamlessly as if it was all real.
The one-shot video shows the band dancing to the song using 8 treadmills, choreographed by Trish Sie.
The Beastie Boys play with the tropes of widely syndicated shows such as Hawaii Five-0, S.W.A.T, and Starsky and Hutch, featuring shaky fight scenes and foot chases.
As zombies rose from their graves, Michael Jackson introduced the world to the iconic "Thriller" dance.
This song was a staple for many high school students who felt dammed by a system that taught normality and conformance instead of individuality and rebellion.
The music video was created using stop motion animation, a filming technique in which objects are moved slightly in each frame, creating the illusion of free movement.
Incorporating pencil sketch animation with live-action, the video takes the viewer through a comic book-style world from the perspective of a young girl in a coffee shop.
The Beatles
The Beach Boys
Coolio
M.I.A.
Eminem
Doja Cat
The Kinks
Kate Bush
Michael Jackson
The Cure
Bjork
Radiohead
Radiohead
Madvillain
Kanye West
Frank Ocean
Ariana Grande
Giorgio Moroder
Blondie
Gloria Gaynor
Prince
The Chemical Brothers
Miley Cyrus
The Avalanches
Gorillaz
Coldplay
Red Hot Chili Peppers
Pearl Jam
Weezer
Foo Fighters
Shakira
Green Day
Calvin Harris
My Chemical Romance
Beastie Boys
"Weird Al" Yankovic
Rick Astley
Queen
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