Back in Time Today
Music videos have become a vital part of the music industry’s visual storytelling, reaching millions worldwide. Some artists, in their quest for unforgettable visuals, have spared no expense. This list delves into 23 of the priciest music videos ever made, examining the reasons behind their hefty price tags and whether the extravagant costs were justified.
1. “Scream” – Michael Jackson & Janet Jackson (1995)
“Scream” remains an iconic collaboration between Michael and Janet Jackson. Shot on 35mm film, the video features futuristic CGI and a spaceship setting, all under the direction of Mark Romanek. Each visual element was meticulously crafted, contributing to its $7 million cost, equivalent to over $14 million today. The video was a Grammy nominee and continues to inspire artists with its innovative style and visuals. Despite the expense, its cultural impact and continued relevance in pop culture affirm its worth.
2. “Die Another Day” – Madonna (2002)
Madonna’s “Die Another Day” is a visually spectacular Bond-themed video, featuring intricate CGI, stunt doubles, and a unique Pink Panther-style fight scene. With a budget of $6.1 million, adjusting for inflation, it exceeds $10 million today. While the video dazzled with its flashy effects, it was somewhat overshadowed by the Bond movie it accompanied. The mixed reception questions its worth, but its ambition and creativity remain noteworthy.
3. “Express Yourself” – Madonna (1989)
Madonna’s “Express Yourself” is a visual masterpiece set in a dystopian world inspired by Metropolis. The video showcases elaborate costumes and intricate sets, crafted with great attention to detail at a cost of $5 million, or $12 million today. It stands as one of Madonna’s most iconic videos, praised for its boldness and artistic vision. The investment paid off in terms of cultural influence, solidifying its place in music video history.
4. “Black or White” – Michael Jackson (1991)
Michael Jackson’s “Black or White” revolutionized the music video landscape with its groundbreaking morphing effects. The 11-minute short film format captured audiences worldwide, at a cost of $4 million, equivalent to $8.5 million today. Its innovative visual effects set new industry standards, justifying the expense. The video’s cultural impact and technical achievements ensure its lasting legacy as a revolutionary piece of visual art.
5. “Bad” – Michael Jackson (1987)
Directed by the legendary Martin Scorsese, “Bad” showcases Michael Jackson at his peak, dancing in a New York City subway station. The collaboration between Jackson and Scorsese resulted in a video that cost $2.2 million, or $5.8 million today. The video played a crucial role in cementing Jackson’s status as the “King of Pop.” Its cinematic quality and powerful choreography continue to resonate, proving its value and importance.
6. “Telephone” – Lady Gaga ft. Beyoncé (2010)
“Telephone” is a visual feast, combining the star power of Lady Gaga and Beyoncé in a 9-minute mini-movie with Tarantino-style flair. Rumored to cost $10 million, it is one of the most expensive music videos ever made. The video’s vibrant visuals and narrative style contributed to its massive cultural impact, amassing over 1 billion views on YouTube. Its lasting popularity and influence confirm the investment’s worthiness.
7. “Estranged” – Guns N’ Roses (1993)
Guns N’ Roses’ “Estranged” is a 9-minute epic that captivated audiences with its dramatic visuals, including dolphins, sinking ships, and Slash surfing. The video’s $4 million cost, now $8.5 million, reflects its ambition. Though it didn’t significantly boost sales, “Estranged” remains legendary in rock music history, admired for its grand scale and artistic vision. Fans continue to appreciate its epic storytelling and visual artistry.
8. “Honey” – Mariah Carey (1997)
Mariah Carey’s “Honey” is a glamorous production shot in the Bahamas, featuring yacht scenes and stunning underwater shots. Costing $2.5 million, or $5 million today, it played a key role in her rebranding as a sexier artist. The video’s luxurious setting and captivating visuals contributed to its success, enhancing Carey’s image and broadening her appeal. Its artistic and commercial achievements justify the expense.
9. “Bedtime Story” – Madonna (1995)
“Bedtime Story,” a surreal creation by Madonna, transports viewers into dreamscapes filled with Dali-esque CGI. The video cost $5 million, equivalent to $10 million today, reflecting its intricate visual artistry. Despite its commercial underperformance, the video’s unique style and imaginative concept make it a noteworthy piece in Madonna’s videography. Its artistic ambition, albeit not financially rewarding, adds to its intrigue.
10. “Take On Me” – a-ha (1984)
A-ha’s “Take On Me” captivated audiences with its revolutionary rotoscope animation, blending live-action with sketch-like visuals. At a cost of $500K, or $1.4 million today, the video became an iconic symbol of the 1980s. Its innovation and creativity brought it enduring fame, making it one of the most recognizable music videos in history. The investment’s artistic return far outweighed its financial cost, cementing its place in pop culture.
11. “Thriller” – Michael Jackson (1983)
“Thriller,” directed by John Landis, transformed the music video genre with its 14-minute horror movie narrative. Costing $500K, or $1.5 million today, it became legendary, changing how music videos were perceived. The iconic dance sequences and cinematic storytelling captured global attention, forever altering the landscape of visual music storytelling. Its cultural and historical significance ensures its status as a timeless classic.
12. “November Rain” – Guns N’ Roses (1992)
“November Rain” is a rock opera by Guns N’ Roses, encompassing a wedding, funeral, and Slash’s memorable desert solo. At $1.5 million, or $3.3 million today, it remains one of the most-watched rock videos. Its cinematic storytelling and emotional depth continue to captivate audiences. The video’s grandeur and artistic vision justify its cost, leaving a lasting impact on music video history.
13. “Virtual Insanity” – Jamiroquai (1996)
Jamiroquai’s “Virtual Insanity” amazed viewers with its mind-bending moving floor effect, creating an illusion of floating objects. Costing $1.2 million, or $2.5 million today, it became a visual marvel and won four MTV VMAs. The video’s innovative concept and execution garnered critical acclaim and popular success. Its uniqueness and creativity justify the expenditure, enhancing its status as a groundbreaking visual experience.
14. “Bitter Sweet Symphony” – The Verve (1997)
The Verve’s “Bitter Sweet Symphony” is a simple yet unforgettable video featuring Richard Ashcroft walking down a bustling street. With a $1 million budget, or $2 million today, its minimalist approach resonated deeply with audiences. The video’s poignant simplicity and Ashcroft’s unwavering demeanor created an enduring visual that complemented the song’s profound message. Its artistic impact justifies the expenditure, leaving a lasting legacy.
15. “Sabotage” – Beastie Boys (1994)
Beastie Boys’ “Sabotage” parodies ’70s cop shows with humor and energy, featuring costumes and antics that delight viewers. Costing $500K, or $1 million today, it became a cult classic, celebrated for its creativity and playful spirit. The video’s unique style and engaging concept contributed to its enduring appeal. Its cultural significance and memorable imagery ensure its place in music video history.
16. “Wrecking Ball” – Miley Cyrus (2013)
Miley Cyrus’s “Wrecking Ball” became a viral sensation, primarily due to the infamous nude wrecking ball scene. Costing $1.5 million, its emotional intensity and bold visuals captivated audiences, garnering over 1 billion views. The video’s daring approach and dramatic storytelling ensured its cultural impact, sparking discussions and memes. Its success and widespread recognition affirm its worth in the music video canon.
17. “Formation” – Beyoncé (2016)
Beyoncé’s “Formation” is a cultural reset, making powerful political statements through stunning visuals. Costing over $1 million, it captivated audiences with its artistic depth and social commentary. The video’s influence extended beyond music, sparking conversations about race and identity. Its profound impact and visual brilliance justify the investment, solidifying its status as a masterpiece.
18. “This Is America” – Childish Gambino (2018)
Childish Gambino’s “This Is America” delivers deep social commentary through a single continuous take, captivating viewers with its raw intensity. While the exact cost remains undisclosed, it’s likely over $1 million. The video’s powerful message and artistic execution earned it Grammy recognition, making it a cultural phenomenon. Its profound impact and innovative approach confirm its artistic success.
19. “Up & Up” – Coldplay (2016)
Coldplay’s “Up & Up” enchants with surreal, gravity-defying visuals that create an otherworldly atmosphere. Costing over $1 million, its artistic innovation and visual splendor captivated audiences. The video’s imaginative style and uplifting message contributed to its success, resonating with fans globally. Its aesthetic brilliance and creative vision justify the expenditure, enhancing its standing in music video artistry.
20. “All the Stars” – Kendrick Lamar, SZA (2018)
“All the Stars” by Kendrick Lamar and SZA integrates Afrofuturist aesthetics with the Black Panther theme, creating a visually captivating experience. Costing over $1.5 million, its opulent visuals and thematic depth engaged viewers. The video’s artistic richness and cultural relevance earned it an Oscar nomination, affirming its worth and significance in the music video landscape.
21. “Chandelier” – Sia (2014)
Sia’s “Chandelier” captured hearts with Maddie Ziegler’s intense dance performance in a minimalist setting. Costing over $500K, its raw emotion and artistic simplicity resonated with audiences, amassing over 2 billion views. The video’s choreographic brilliance and emotional depth justify the investment, making it a modern classic in music video storytelling.
22. “Bad Blood” – Taylor Swift ft. Kendrick Lamar (2015)
“Bad Blood” by Taylor Swift, featuring Kendrick Lamar, is a star-studded action movie parody with elaborate costumes and explosive scenes. Costing over $5 million, it broke Vevo records with its visual spectacle and celebrity cameos. The video’s dynamic energy and captivating narrative ensured its massive success, justifying the investment and cementing its place in pop culture.
23. “APESHIT” – The Carters (2018)
“APESHIT” by The Carters, shot in the Louvre, showcases opulent visuals and iconic artworks, creating a visual masterpiece. Costing over $1 million, its grandiose setting and artistic depth captivated audiences, serving as a testament to Beyoncé and Jay-Z’s creative vision. The video’s cultural impact and visual grandeur confirm its worth and enduring appeal.