MUSIC VIDEOS

Performance Music Video
Performance Music Videos include shots of the artist performing either on stage or as part of the narrative of the music video. They also regularly have close ups of the artist. An example of a Performance Music Videos would be ‘My Hero’ by the Foo Fighters. 
 I have chosen this music video as it includes a lot of performance shots. It shows the artists as being part of the narrative.

Narrative Music Video

These music videos often tell stories that feature the lyrics of the song  in them.

The music videos tend to have a beginning, middle and end and are like mini films.

An example of a Narrative Music Video would be ‘Scientist’ by Coldplay.

Despite this music video going backwards it tells a story of a car accident.

Thematic Music Video

Common themes are used in Thematic Music Videos. This depends on the genre of the music.

Rap music usually has themes of street and cars whereas Heavy metal music usually has more performance shots and low key lighting.

An example of a Thematic Music Video would be ‘Single Ladies’ by Beyoncé.

I have chosen this music video as it includes dance routines which are commonly associated with female artists performance. 

What makes a good music video?

I think a good music videos includes one or more of the three aspects I have discussed; performance, narrative or thematic.

A good music video I believe should link to the lyrics of the song in order for it to make sense.

Also the music video should relate to the genre of  the song. For example Heavy Metal music videos should have low key lighting and quite a ‘grungy’ and dark look to them. Whereas a Pop song should have more bright colours and high key lighting.



Doing a presentation on music videos allows me to understand them and gain knowledge on how they work. I now gave knowledge on the different types of music videos and this will help me with my music video and being able to understand how they work.