The need for music videos

Don’t Stop the Music (Video): Music Videos Now

“Say My Name” by Destiny’s Child. “Just Work” by Missy Elliott. “Hang Up” by Madonna. “Gimme More” by Britney Spears. These are just a few of the songs whose music videos are indelible memories for me. There was a time when music videos were an important part of album promotion. They help the audience become engaged. Nowadays, far fewer music videos are released. Instead, the plethora of TikTok clips shows whether full-length music videos can capture people’s imaginations.

Fan Mail: Fan Conversation Drives Music

In a recent interview with GQ magazine for a cover story, Beyoncé shared why her latest album doesn’t have a video, revival and Cowboy Carter. She said she didn’t want to “distract attention from the quality of her voice and music.” This topic arose out of demand from the BeyHive (Beyoncé fans) who are crazy about her visuals. In the past, Beyoncé has told detailed stories through music videos, visual albums, and films revival travel. But with her latest album, she’s making a shift.

Beyoncé’s decision to stop releasing videos feels like a rebuke to the music industry, which has long churned out a steady stream of content. But because of the deep respect and admiration that many have for her, I feel like this evolution of Beyoncé’s career is also impacting the music industry as a whole.

Nonetheless, music videos have long been an integral part of the industry. I grew up watching TRL, 106 & Park, and VH1’s Top 20 Countdown. These are countdown shows driven by fan votes, which in turn drive trends throughout the music industry. I also like behind the scenes, so watch Access granted BET excites me. I think we should give the audience a sneak peek and let them understand the work behind Music creates a relationship between artist and audience.

Recently, when the Video Music Awards celebrated their 40th anniversary, it became clear that I wasn’t the only one who missed visual storytelling. This show is not only filled with live performances but also music videos. The show is driven by fan voting, with different groups of fans voting on their favorite entries. There are also plenty of tributes, especially to Britney Spears, a legend with a series of iconic music videos beloved by her fans. For that night at least, it seemed like the music industry had never changed in the past.

Challenge Me: Musicians Tell Stories

Still, there’s something beautiful about the way musicians are unleashing their art now, mostly on their own terms. First, there’s a group of wonderful and influential female directors, from Hannah Lux-Davies and Sophie Muller (who directed The Killers on Mr. Brightside and Beyoncé on Knock On “Alarm Bell”) to Diane Martel and Melina Matsoukas (who directed “The Killers,” “Mr. Brightside” and “Alarm Bell”). Beyoncé’s “Formation”). Each of these directors’ credits is astonishing. The work they create is incredible.

The video for “papibones” produced by FKA twigs and starring Shygirl is one of my favorite videos of the past few years. The song is three and a half minutes long, but the video is only half of it. It’s a perfect combination of culture, fashion and female collaboration that perfectly embodies the power both musicians can inspire.

Olivia Rodrigo’s “Get Him Back” music video was recorded on an iPhone. It’s visually unique and the storytelling elevates to showcase Olivia as a young musician living in this era of short film consumption. Dua Lipa is another musician who uses music videos to tell stories, particularly through choreography, responding to the recurring reactions she performed during her early career, when she was still learning how to have a stronger stage expressiveness. Tate McRae looks at the early development of pop music through her music videos. Her choreography is also a nod to the era that inspired her stylistic sound.

So while music videos are being produced less often, they still play a role in showcasing female artists, especially storytellers. In fact, many musicians themselves have begun directing their own videos.

Billie Eilish directed the music video for her hit single “BIRDS OF A FEATHER.” Taylor Swift directed her first music video for her song “The Man,” a song that aptly talks about how she would be complimented if she were a man. Charli xcx, with album release, delivers album promotion masterclass boyreleased music videos for “Von Dutch” and “360,” the latter of which is packed with stars and conversations about the weirdness of internet culture.

Halsey directed the music video for their latest album, great imitator. The video by independent musician Tinashe (which means she’s not affiliated with a major label), exemplifies what storytelling can look like when you don’t have the machine of a record label behind you. Megan Thee Stallion may also be known as Megan Thee Storyteller. Her videos are meaningful and pay homage to her Houston roots. She is a superb marketer. And Janelle Monaé, who created an “emotional picture” (the brilliant title of the work) for her timeless album dirty computer. This is obviously not an exhaustive list.

The fact that musicians are taking control of their work and how it’s released brings a sense of sanctity to an industry driven by sales and popularity.

Finally: Conclusion

I do recognize the need for artistic development. But I hope music videos continue to be a medium for creativity and continue to provide opportunities for artistic collaboration.

Pop music and video are synonymous. Music videos bring the stories in the songs to life, making them indelible memories.

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