Back in Time Today
In the realm of music, certain videos have transcended their accompanying songs, gaining massive popularity and cultural significance. These visual spectacles captivate audiences with their creativity, storytelling, and groundbreaking visuals.
Here are 30 music videos that have become more popular than the songs themselves, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of pop culture.
1. Michael Jackson – Thriller
Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” revolutionized the music video industry, blending horror and pop in an unforgettable way. Released in 1983, it features Jackson transforming into a werewolf and leading a group of zombies in an iconic dance routine.
The video’s cinematic approach, directed by John Landis, set new standards for music videos, making it a cultural phenomenon. Its 14-minute runtime was groundbreaking, captivating audiences worldwide.
Today, “Thriller” remains a staple in Halloween playlists and annual dance recreations, proving its lasting impact and popularity beyond the song itself.
2. PSY – Gangnam Style
PSY’s “Gangnam Style” took the world by storm in 2012, becoming a viral sensation with its catchy tune and signature horse-riding dance. The video’s humorous and satirical take on the luxurious lifestyle in Seoul’s Gangnam district resonated globally.
Its catchy dance moves and colorful visuals helped it become the first YouTube video to reach one billion views, breaking records and introducing K-pop to a wider audience.
Despite the song’s lyrics being in Korean, its universal appeal and infectious energy made the video more memorable than the song itself.
3. Beyoncé – Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)
Beyoncé’s “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)” is renowned for its minimalist black-and-white video, featuring the singer and two dancers executing a flawless, energetic routine. Released in 2008, it became a cultural landmark.
Directed by Jake Nava, the video’s choreography, crafted by Frank Gatson Jr. and JaQuel Knight, became instantly iconic, inspiring countless parodies and tributes.
The phrase “put a ring on it” became synonymous with commitment, and the video’s lasting influence in pop culture surpasses the song’s own success.
4. Lady Gaga – Bad Romance
Lady Gaga’s “Bad Romance” is a visual masterpiece known for its avant-garde fashion and elaborate sets. Released in 2009, it showcases Gaga in a futuristic narrative with striking visuals and choreography.
Directed by Francis Lawrence, the video explores themes of love, power, and control, featuring Gaga’s innovative style that challenged conventional norms.
The video’s unique aesthetic and bold storytelling have cemented its status in pop culture, making it more iconic than the song itself, influencing fashion and music videos that followed.
5. a-ha – Take On Me
a-ha’s “Take On Me” is celebrated for its groundbreaking animation that intertwined live-action and pencil-sketch animation. Released in 1985, it featured lead singer Morten Harket in a captivating romantic adventure.
Directed by Steve Barron, the video’s innovative rotoscoping technique made it a visual sensation, setting it apart in the MTV era.
Its artistic approach and storytelling captured the imagination of viewers, ensuring the video’s legacy surpassed the song’s, becoming a staple reference for creative music videos.
6. OK Go – Here It Goes Again
OK Go’s “Here It Goes Again” became a viral hit with its creative treadmill choreography. Released in 2006, the video features the band performing a complex dance routine on moving treadmills.
Its single-take shooting style and innovative concept captured the public’s attention, quickly spreading across the internet.
The video’s clever execution and originality made it an internet sensation, helping it gain a cult following and making the visual performance more renowned than the song itself.
7. Rebecca Black – Friday
Rebecca Black’s “Friday” became an internet phenomenon, often dubbed as one of the viral sensations of the early 2010s. Released in 2011, it quickly garnered attention for its catchy yet simplistic lyrics.
The video, showcasing a teenage Black celebrating the weekend with friends, went viral due to its earnestness and meme-worthy qualities.
Despite initial criticism, “Friday” became a pop culture reference, with the video’s notoriety and charm transcending the music itself, making Rebecca Black a household name for her youthful anthem.
8. Miley Cyrus – Wrecking Ball
Miley Cyrus’s “Wrecking Ball” is infamous for its provocative video, which features the singer swinging nude on an actual wrecking ball. Released in 2013, it marked a significant departure from her earlier image.
The video, directed by Terry Richardson, became a sensation for its raw emotion and bold visuals, sparking widespread discussion and parody.
Its controversial nature and Cyrus’s powerful performance helped the video overshadow the song, cementing its place in pop culture and symbolizing Cyrus’s artistic evolution.
9. Sia – Chandelier
Sia’s “Chandelier” is renowned for its emotionally charged video featuring young dancer Maddie Ziegler. Released in 2014, it showcases Ziegler’s expressive choreography in a raw, empty apartment setting.
The video, with its minimalist style, focuses on the intense and captivating dance performance, resonating with audiences worldwide.
Ziegler’s interpretative dance became synonymous with the song, elevating the video’s status above the song itself, making it a significant cultural moment in music video history.
10. Childish Gambino – This Is America
Childish Gambino’s “This Is America” is a powerful commentary on gun violence and racism in the U.S. Released in 2018, the video features Donald Glover in a warehouse setting, juxtaposing dance with chaotic, violent imagery.
Directed by Hiro Murai, its layered narrative and symbolism sparked widespread discussion, making it a viral sensation and cultural critique.
The video’s impactful imagery and bold storytelling overshadowed the song, solidifying its place in discussions on race and society.
11. Taylor Swift – Shake It Off
Taylor Swift’s “Shake It Off” is known for its fun, carefree spirit and diverse dance styles. Released in 2014, the video features Swift playfully attempting different dance genres, from ballet to hip-hop.
Directed by Mark Romanek, the video’s energetic and colorful presentation resonated with fans, emphasizing the song’s message of shaking off criticism.
Its playful charm and Swift’s charismatic performance made the video a fan favorite, boosting its popularity beyond the catchy tune.
12. Britney Spears – …Baby One More Time
Britney Spears’s “…Baby One More Time” launched her into stardom with its iconic school-themed video. Released in 1998, it features a teenage Spears in a high school setting, blending innocence with rebellious energy.
Directed by Nigel Dick, the video’s choreography and Spears’s charismatic presence made it a cultural phenomenon, influencing fashion and music video trends.
The schoolgirl outfit and catchy dance moves became emblematic of late 90s pop culture, ensuring the video’s legacy outshone the song itself.
13. Peter Gabriel – Sledgehammer
Peter Gabriel’s “Sledgehammer” is celebrated for its groundbreaking visual effects, using claymation and stop-motion animation. Released in 1986, it presented a visual feast that complemented the song’s energetic beat.
Directed by Stephen R. Johnson, the video’s innovative techniques set new standards in music video production, earning it numerous awards.
Its creative artistry and engaging visuals made “Sledgehammer” a timeless classic, with the video’s influence recognized far beyond the song itself.
14. Eminem – Without Me
Eminem’s “Without Me” is known for its satirical edge and dynamic visuals. Released in 2002, the video features Eminem as a superhero, taking on various personas in a playful narrative.
Directed by Joseph Kahn, its energetic storytelling and clever references to pop culture resonated with fans, showcasing Eminem’s unique style and charisma.
The video’s engaging concept and memorable visuals made it stand out, cementing its status as a classic that eclipses the song in popularity.
15. Fatboy Slim – Weapon of Choice
Fatboy Slim’s “Weapon of Choice” is famed for featuring actor Christopher Walken in a surprising dance performance. Released in 2001, it showcases Walken dancing and flying around a hotel lobby.
Directed by Spike Jonze, the video’s unexpected concept and Walken’s charismatic performance captured audiences, earning critical acclaim.
The video’s creativity and Walken’s unexpected dance prowess made it a cultural touchstone, remembered more vividly than the accompanying track.
16. The White Stripes – Fell in Love With a Girl
The White Stripes’ “Fell in Love With a Girl” is celebrated for its inventive LEGO animation. Released in 2002, the video depicts the band performing in a vibrant and colorful LEGO world.
Directed by Michel Gondry, its unique approach and stop-motion technique set it apart, earning praise for creativity and execution.
The video’s playful artistry and originality grabbed viewers’ attention, elevating its status beyond the song, becoming a benchmark for imaginative music videos.
17. OutKast – Hey Ya!
OutKast’s “Hey Ya!” is renowned for its energetic and colorful video, featuring André 3000 performing as multiple band members. Released in 2003, it pays homage to 1960s TV performances.
Directed by Bryan Barber, the video’s vibrant aesthetics and infectious energy captivated audiences, making it an instant classic.
Its creative visuals and playful narrative helped the video achieve iconic status, overshadowing the song with its memorable presentation and infectious charm.
18. Madonna – Vogue
Madonna’s “Vogue” stands out for its stylish black-and-white video, celebrating fashion and dance. Released in 1990, it features Madonna and dancers striking iconic poses, inspired by ballroom culture.
Directed by David Fincher, the video’s elegant aesthetic and choreography became a cultural phenomenon, influencing fashion and dance trends.
Its timeless style and artistic direction ensured the video’s legacy surpassed the song, making it a defining moment in music video history.
19. Guns N’ Roses – November Rain
Guns N’ Roses’ “November Rain” is known for its epic storytelling and grand visuals. Released in 1992, the video features a dramatic wedding narrative intertwined with live performance scenes.
Directed by Andy Morahan, its cinematic scope and emotional depth captivated audiences, becoming a staple on music channels.
The video’s lavish production and compelling storyline made it more memorable than the song, solidifying its place as a classic in rock video history.
20. Blink-182 – All the Small Things
Blink-182’s “All the Small Things” is celebrated for its humorous parody of pop music videos. Released in 2000, it features the band humorously imitating popular pop acts of the time.
Directed by Marcos Siega, the video’s playful spirit and clever satire resonated with fans, highlighting the band’s comedic flair.
Its entertaining concept and memorable moments made the video stand out, surpassing the song in cultural impact and popularity.
21. Coldplay – The Scientist
Coldplay’s “The Scientist” is noted for its inventive reverse narrative video. Released in 2002, it features Chris Martin walking backwards, revealing the story in reverse.
Directed by Jamie Thraves, the video’s innovative concept and emotional resonance captivated audiences, enhancing the song’s introspective nature.
Its artistic execution and compelling narrative made the video a standout piece, remembered more vividly than the song itself.
22. Foo Fighters – Learn to Fly
Foo Fighters’ “Learn to Fly” is renowned for its comedic video featuring the band in various airline roles. Released in 1999, it showcases the band in a humorous airplane scenario.
Directed by Jesse Peretz, the video’s playful narrative and comedic portrayal resonated with fans, showcasing the band’s charismatic humor.
Its entertaining concept and memorable characters made the video more popular than the song, becoming a beloved classic.
23. Daft Punk – Around the World
Daft Punk’s “Around the World” is famous for its synchronized choreography and unique costumes. Released in 1997, the video features robots and performers dancing in a visually striking setting.
Directed by Michel Gondry, its conceptual simplicity and visual complexity captivated audiences, making it a cornerstone in electronic music videos.
The video’s imaginative approach and iconic dance moves made it stand out, ensuring its legacy surpassed the track’s own popularity.
24. BTS – Dynamite
BTS’s “Dynamite” is known for its vibrant and energetic video that exudes joy and positivity. Released in 2020, it showcases the group in colorful, retro-themed settings with dynamic choreography.
Directed by Yong Seok Choi, its upbeat visuals and lively performance resonated with a global audience, breaking numerous records.
The video’s infectious energy and the band’s charismatic presence helped it become more celebrated than the song, marking a significant moment in K-pop history.
25. Carly Rae Jepsen – Call Me Maybe
Carly Rae Jepsen’s “Call Me Maybe” became a cultural sensation with its charming and playful video. Released in 2011, it features Jepsen daydreaming about a crush in a light-hearted suburban setting.
Directed by Ben Knechtel, the video’s relatable narrative and catchy hook resonated globally, inspiring countless parodies and memes.
Its endearing storyline and Jepsen’s charismatic performance ensured the video outshone the song, becoming a defining moment in early 2010s pop culture.
26. Drake – Hotline Bling
Drake’s “Hotline Bling” is widely recognized for its distinctive video featuring the rapper’s unique dance moves. Released in 2015, the video’s minimalist aesthetic and vibrant color palette became instantly recognizable.
Directed by Director X, its stylish simplicity and Drake’s memorable choreography sparked numerous memes and parodies.
The video’s cultural impact and visual appeal made it more iconic than the song, solidifying its place in meme culture and music video history.
27. Pharrell Williams – Happy
Pharrell Williams’s “Happy” became a worldwide phenomenon with its uplifting and participatory video. Released in 2013, it features Pharrell and a diverse group of people dancing joyfully across different urban settings.
Directed by We Are From LA, the video’s infectious positivity and interactive format inspired numerous fan versions, spreading happiness globally.
Its universal message and engaging visuals ensured the video’s popularity far exceeded the song, becoming an anthem for joy and celebration.
28. Maroon 5 – Sugar
Maroon 5’s “Sugar” is famed for its heartwarming video featuring the band crashing real weddings. Released in 2015, it captures the band surprising couples with impromptu performances.
Directed by David Dobkin, the video’s genuine reactions and joyful moments resonated with viewers, enhancing its appeal.
Its feel-good nature and unique concept made the video more memorable than the song, cementing its status as a beloved wedding anthem.
29. Beyoncé – Formation
Beyoncé’s “Formation” is celebrated for its bold visual and political themes. Released in 2016, the video showcases powerful imagery reflecting Southern U.S. culture and history.
Directed by Melina Matsoukas, its striking visuals and empowering message sparked conversation, solidifying its place in cultural discussions.
The video’s artistic depth and Beyoncé’s commanding presence ensured it became more influential than the song, marking a pivotal moment in music video artistry.
30. Rihanna – We Found Love
Rihanna’s “We Found Love” is known for its vivid depiction of a complex relationship. Released in 2011, the video explores themes of love, addiction, and chaos.
Directed by Melina Matsoukas, its intense narrative and striking visuals resonated with audiences, capturing the song’s emotional depth.
The video’s artistic portrayal and narrative complexity ensured its impact exceeded the song, becoming a cornerstone in Rihanna’s videography and pop culture.