Every piece of literature has a story. A music video has the power to share a story of love, vulnerability, and the importance of having a great time. Music video directors and artists create impactful videos by connecting to the audience through relatable topics like mental health, overcoming insecurities, and quite often, just having fun.
With our variety of music platforms, we block ourselves from situations that teach us new meaning because we are too uncomfortable trying something different. This is because people listen to whoever is popular at the time or whatever is easy to access. Although there is nothing wrong with enjoying accepted music, we have to explore to grow! If we make the effort to taste new music the way a chef tests different ingredients to perfect their dish, we will immerse ourselves into a new world.
Unknown Mortal Orchestra - "Hunnybee"
"Hunnybee" shows the patience required to create an eye-catching music video. The ride begins slow and steady, but odd things start to happen. This video is a great metaphor for people living with anxiety. Even if everything seems fine, a wrong turn is right in front of you.
Crumb - "Locket"
Skill meets technology. Crumb uses filming techniques and technology with a 360 camera that constantly changes the FOV. This video demonstrates the importance of technology and planning in regards to creating a creative and thoughtful video.
Chelou - "Halfway to Nowhere"
Learn to love your insecurities in this far-out video. "Chelou" means bizarre...
Childish Gambino - "Feels Like Summer"
Donald Glover uses his genuine creativity, to create one of the hottest music videos of 2018. In this video, Glover takes a stroll as he passes references across the rap arena. Through his perspective, we see references ranging from J-Cole hosing down kids to OJ fresh out of court, sitting on a bench next to melting ice cream. This particular moment refers to OJ getting away with murder and the melted ice cream forms XXXTentacion's hair, representing his murder.
Isaiah Rashad - "4r Da Squaw"
On a walk along the boardwalk, Isaiah describes to his younger friend how money comes and goes. It opens us up to an interesting question, why do people flaunt what materialistic possessions they have, or even lie about them? I guess we can all be thankful we don't have our student debt above our heads.
Raleigh Ritchie - "Time in a Tree"
Imagine going on an elevator ride with your past-self. Better yet, imagine your mom leaving that same elevator out of frustration. Raleigh Ritchie robs you of your comfort zone and forces you to face your deepest vulnerability eye to eye.
Mac Miller - "Self Care"
Rest in peace, Mac. This video reminds us, it is okay to get help.
STEVE LACY - "RYD / DARK RED"
One music video, two songs. Lacy gets pretty unlucky with his white lighter. Something bad is coming.
Lana Del Rey - "Video Games"
Fall in love with Lana as she cruises through the 1960s.
Still Woozy- "Goodie Bag"
"So, do you think this music video is doomed, just because you have always had problems with the way you look?"
Smino - "L.M.F."
Smino is a St. Louis native that creates fun vibes for his fans, with all types of shenanigans and a Lemur.
SCRUB and ACE HA - "Anita Ride"
SCRUB works with ACE HA to create an authentic experience to show his charm and love for how he came up. This music video is filled with family and friends exclusively. Another Mid-Missouri rapper who you should keep your eye on.
J. Brodersen - "Hall of Shame"
Video for "Hall of Shame", the first track from "Misfortune Teller" by J. Brodersen. Now on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Music. Follow Brodersen's story with James Carter, as they lead us through many of the beautiful spots in Columbia, Missouri.
After watching these videos, you will have a stronger understanding of the complex procedure there is to create a story the way these artists do. Although all of the artist range in popularity and the amount of money they have to spend on videos, they all maintain some similarities. Examples of these constants in great music videos are patience, hard work, and the desire to convey a message to someone.
Even if the purpose of a song or video is for simple enjoyment, we as listeners feel high when we connect with the story. We can thank our favorite musicians for being there for us when we just needed to listen to something that would put a smile on our face. It is time you take the next step. Begin exploring your new favorite artists and their respective music videos, either to have a good time or to grow as a person, do whatever makes you the happiest.
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