50 best music videos of all time

On August 1, 1981, a revolutionary network burst onto cable TV screens, introducing a groundbreaking way for music enthusiasts to connect with their favorite artists—MTV, aka “Music Television.” Although music performance clips had been around for a while, MTV transformed the game, reshaping how artists visually presented and marketed themselves. From DIY endeavors to cinematic masterpieces, music videos evolved into an art form, with icons like Michael Jackson and Björk pushing the visual boundaries. As MTV directors ascended to film careers, the debate ignited: did “Video Kill the Radio Star”? In this list, we present the 50 Greatest Music Videos of All Time, showcasing the creativity, innovation, and cultural impact that defined an era.

Table of Contents

1. Bob Dylan “Subterranean Homesick Blues” (1967)

One of the earliest precursors to the modern music video, Bob Dylan’s “Subterranean Homesick Blues” is an authentic DIY gem. Filmed in the alley of the Savoy Hotel in London for D.A. Pennebaker’s “Don’t Look Back” documentary, Dylan flips through cue cards syncopated with his rapid-fire lyrics. Simple yet revolutionary, this clip laid the groundwork for the optical innovation that music videos would soon embody.

2. Michael Jackson “Billie Jean” (1983)

Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean” is more than a chart-topping hit—it’s a cinematic masterpiece. Directed by Steve Barron, the video follows MJ’s pursuit of Billie Jean in a city street, featuring iconic moments like the light-up squares sequence. Initially resisted by MTV, the video’s eventual playtime catapulted Jackson into pop superstardom, proving the transformative power of music videos.

3. Michael Jackson “Thriller” (1983)

Widely regarded as the greatest music video of all time, Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” is an epic production directed by John Landis. Combining horror movie themes with impeccable storytelling, the 13-minute video features MJ’s dance with the living dead. The choreography remains timeless, showcasing precision and impact that solidified “Thriller” as a groundbreaking cultural phenomenon.

4. a-ha “Take On Me” (1985)

“Take On Me” by a-ha isn’t just a synthpop anthem; its music video, directed by Steve Barron, is a technical marvel. Using rotoscoping, the video blends live-action and animation, turning a flop single into a global smash. “Take On Me” became an enduring classic, and a-ha wisely embraced its legacy, continuing to create music to this day.

5. Peter Gabriel “Sledgehammer” (1986)

Competing with “Thriller” for the title of greatest music video, Peter Gabriel’s “Sledgehammer” is a visual tour de force. Directed by Stephen R. Johnson and featuring animation by luminaries like the Brothers Quay, the stop-motion adventure required Gabriel to lay under glass for 16 hours. Bursting with color and style, “Sledgehammer” transformed Gabriel into a chart-topping oddball pop star.

6. “Weird Al” Yankovic “Fat” (1988)

“Weird Al” Yankovic injected humor into the MTV landscape with “Fat,” a parody of Michael Jackson’s “Bad.” Directed by Jay Levey, the video lovingly skewers MJ’s iconic persona. Yankovic’s attention to detail, from tracking shots to sound-effect-triggered moves, made “Fat” an iconic live-show finale. Yankovic’s parody prowess proved music videos could be both entertaining and commercially viable.

7. Janet Jackson “Rhythm Nation” (1989)

While some artists leaned heavily on narrative storytelling in music videos, Janet Jackson’s “Rhythm Nation” prioritized powerful performance. Directed by Dominic Sena, the black & white video showcases Jackson’s military precision and impeccable dance moves. Set in a steam factory, the video’s clear concept and outstanding choreography left an indelible mark on viewers’ eyes.

8. Sinéad O’Connor “Nothing Compares 2 U” (1990)

In the evolving landscape of music videos, Sinéad O’Connor’s “Nothing Compares 2 U” stood out for its simplicity and emotional impact. Directed by John Maybury, the video features O’Connor’s expressive face against a black backdrop, delivering the dramatic cover of Prince’s B-side with raw intensity. The unadorned, no-frills approach propelled the song to global success and earned it the Video of the Year award.

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9. Madonna “Vogue” (1990)

Madonna’s mastery of visual storytelling reached its pinnacle with “Vogue.” Directed by David Fincher and set in black & white, the video portrays Madonna as a legendary blonde bombshell, effortlessly executing poses and dance moves. Starting a dance craze, “Vogue” became an enduring piece of pop culture, showcasing Madonna’s ability to push boundaries while creating timeless visuals.

10. Nirvana “Smells Like Teen Spirit” (1991)

Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit” challenged the status quo with a low-budget yet impactful video directed by Samuel Bayer. Set in a chaotic high school assembly, the video captured the disaffected spirit of a generation rejecting the excesses of hair metal. The authenticity of Nirvana’s appearance and catchy song made “Teen Spirit” an instant icon of the grunge movement.

11. Beck “Loser” (1993)

Beck’s “Loser” epitomized the DIY ethos of the ’90s indie scene. Directed by Steve Hanft on a shoestring budget, the video blended eclectic visuals, from negative-image aerobics to a guitar on fire. “Loser” proved that big ideas, not big budgets, could make a lasting impact, opening doors for a new generation of filmmakers and establishing Beck as an alternative music icon.

12. Tool “Prıson Sex” (1993)

Tool’s “Prıson Sex” pushed the boundaries of music video craft with haunting stop-motion puppetry. Directed by guitarist Adam Jones, the video addresses the harrowing subject of child abuse. Unsettling and groundbreaking, “Prıson Sex” elevated Tool as a force in metal and demonstrated the potential of music videos to convey powerful narratives akin to horror movies.

13. Beastie Boys “Sabotage” (1994)

“Sabotage” by the Beastie Boys, directed by Spike Jonze, redefined music videos with its thrilling hard-rock single and ’70s cop show aesthetic. The Beasties, donning fake mustaches, delivered manic comic energy, embracing every wacky concept. “Sabotage” showcased the group’s commitment to diverse video concepts and elevated its comic value to masterclass levels.

14. Nine Inch Nails “Closer” (1994)

Nine Inch Nails’ “Closer” directed by Mark Romanek brought industrial music to the mainstream with a haunting nightmare of a vision. Provocative and controversial, the video’s explicit imagery challenged conventional norms. With scenes edited for MTV rotation, “Closer” set Trent Reznor on a path of provocateur, proving that presenting grotesque concepts as high art could infiltrate the mainstream.

15. Weezer “Buddy Holly” (1994)

Weezer’s “Buddy Holly,” directed by Spike Jonze, ingeniously blended the band’s performance with scenes from the classic sitcom “Happy Days.” The seamless integration of Weezer into the iconic show’s world, along with Jonze’s playful direction, created a timeless video. “Buddy Holly” became a defining moment in ’90s alternative rock and showcased the potential of merging music and pop culture.

16. TLC “Waterfalls” (1995)

TLC’s “Waterfalls,” directed by F. Gary Gray, tackled social issues with a visually stunning narrative. The video featured powerful scenes addressing drug addiction and unsafe sex, paired with the group’s soulful performance. “Waterfalls” proved that music videos could be a platform for addressing real-world problems, resonating with audiences and earning critical acclaim.

17. Jamiroquai “Virtual Insanity” (1996)

Jamiroquai’s “Virtual Insanity,” directed by Jonathan Glazer, featured Jay Kay’s gravity-defying dance moves in a room with sliding furniture. The video’s innovative visual effects complemented the song’s themes of societal chaos. “Virtual Insanity” earned recognition for its creativity and won multiple MTV Video Music Awards, solidifying Jamiroquai as a band with both musical and visual prowess.

18. The Prodigy “Breathe” (1996)

The Prodigy’s “Breathe,” directed by Walter Stern, captured the essence of the band’s intense electronic sound. With a visually striking blend of fire, insects, and frenetic energy, the video matched the aggressive beats of the song. “Breathe” exemplified the synergy between electronic music and dynamic visuals, setting a standard for future electronic and dance music videos.

19. Radiohead “Just” (1995)

Radiohead’s “Just,” directed by Jamie Thraves, took a minimalist approach that sparked endless debates over its meaning. The video featured a man lying on the street, with pedestrians and emergency responders trying to uncover the reason. Its ambiguous narrative fueled discussions and showcased the power of simplicity in conveying profound messages.

20. The Chemical Brothers “Block Rockin’ Beats” (1997)

The Chemical Brothers’ “Block Rockin’ Beats,” directed by Joseph Kahn, fused psychedelic visuals with an infectious beat. The video’s kinetic energy and kaleidoscopic effects complemented the electronic soundscape. “Block Rockin’ Beats” not only became an anthem for electronic music lovers but also demonstrated the potential of music videos to enhance the listening experience through immersive visuals.

21. Fatboy Slim “Praise You” (1998)

Fatboy Slim’s “Praise You,” directed by Spike Jonze, disrupted the conventional music video format with its guerrilla-style, amateur dance performance. Set in front of a movie theater, the video showcased the power of raw, unpolished creativity. “Praise You” challenged traditional aesthetics and earned acclaim for its originality and humor.

22. Madonna “Ray of Light” (1998)

Madonna’s “Ray of Light,” directed by Jonas Åkerlund, embraced the frenetic pace of the electronic dance music scene. The video featured sped-up footage of city life and Madonna’s energetic performance. “Ray of Light” perfectly captured the late-’90s techno vibe and earned Madonna several MTV Video Music Awards, further solidifying her status as the queen of reinvention.

23. Lauryn Hill “Doo Wop (That Thing)” (1998)

Lauryn Hill’s “Doo Wop (That Thing),” directed by Lauryn Hill herself, delivered a powerful message about self-respect and empowerment. The video featured split-screen effects and showcased Hill’s dynamic presence. “Doo Wop (That Thing)” became a cultural touchstone, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and self-worth.

24. TLC “No Scrubs” (1999)

TLC’s “No Scrubs,” directed by Hype Williams, empowered women with its message against “scrubs” or men who offer nothing. The futuristic video featured TLC in various futuristic scenes, complementing the song’s fresh and assertive vibe. “No Scrubs” became a feminist anthem and further solidified TLC’s status as trailblazers in both music and visuals.

25. Eminem “The Real Slim Shady” (2000)

Eminem’s “The Real Slim Shady,” directed by Dr. Dre and Philip G. Atwell, combined humor and social commentary. The video featured multiple Eminem look-alikes causing chaos, highlighting the rapper’s impact on popular culture. “The Real Slim Shady” showcased Eminem’s ability to blend wit with introspection, and the video’s playful yet provocative style earned it critical acclaim.

26. Fatboy Slim “Weapon of Choice” (2001)

Fatboy Slim’s “Weapon of Choice,” directed by Spike Jonze, turned Christopher Walken into a dancing sensation. The video featured Walken’s mesmerizing dance routine in a hotel lobby, showcasing the unexpected combination of Walken’s acting prowess and Jonze’s creative direction. “Weapon of Choice” became an iconic example of how music videos could elevate a song through unforgettable visuals.

27. Gorillaz “Clint Eastwood” (2001)

Gorillaz’s “Clint Eastwood,” directed by Jamie Hewlett, introduced the world to the virtual band’s animated members. The video seamlessly blended animation with live-action footage, creating a surreal and captivating visual experience. “Clint Eastwood” marked the beginning of Gorillaz’s exploration of the visual medium, setting the stage for their innovative approach to music videos.

28. Missy Elliott “Get Ur Freak On” (2001)

Missy Elliott’s “Get Ur Freak On,” directed by Dave Meyers, showcased the rapper’s avant-garde style and boundary-pushing visuals. The video featured a mix of surreal imagery, innovative choreography, and bold fashion choices. Missy Elliott’s fearless creativity and willingness to experiment with visuals set “Get Ur Freak On” apart as a groundbreaking music video.

29. The White Stripes “Fell in Love with a Girl” (2002)

The White Stripes’ “Fell in Love with a Girl,” directed by Michel Gondry, embraced the charm of LEGO animation. The video featured a stop-motion love story created entirely with LEGO bricks, adding a playful and visually striking element to the song. “Fell in Love with a Girl” exemplified Gondry’s unique vision and the ability of music videos to showcase innovative animation techniques.

30. Johnny Cash “Hurt” (2002)

Johnny Cash’s “Hurt,” directed by Mark Romanek, is a poignant reflection on the aging artist’s life. Filmed at the House of Cash in the final years of Cash’s life, the video combines footage from his past with present-day shots. “Hurt” became a powerful farewell from a music legend, with Cash’s weathered voice and Romanek’s direction creating an emotionally charged masterpiece.

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31. OutKast “Hey Ya!” (2003)

OutKast’s “Hey Ya!,” directed by Bryan Barber, took a vibrant and visually dynamic approach. The video featured André 3000 playing all the band members in a variety show setting, and its playful style complemented the song’s infectious energy. “Hey Ya!” became a cultural phenomenon, and its innovative visual approach contributed to the song’s massive success.

32. Beyoncé ft. Jay-Z “Crazy in Love” (2003)

Beyoncé’s “Crazy in Love,” directed by Jake Nava, marked a defining moment in her solo career. The video showcased Beyoncé’s captivating performance and chemistry with Jay-Z. With its energetic dance sequences and glamorous visuals, “Crazy in Love” set a new standard for pop music videos, solidifying Beyoncé’s status as a global superstar.

33. Kanye West “Jesus Walks” (2004)

Kanye West’s “Jesus Walks,” directed by Chris Milk, tackled themes of faith, racism, and social issues. The video’s powerful imagery and West’s unapologetic approach added depth to the song’s message. “Jesus Walks” demonstrated Kanye West’s ability to use visuals to amplify his music’s social and cultural impact.

34. Franz Ferdinand “Take Me Out” (2004)

Franz Ferdinand’s “Take Me Out,” directed by Jonas Odell, featured a unique split-screen format. The video showcased the band’s performance alongside a narrative of a violent confrontation in a nightclub. The juxtaposition of the energetic music with the dramatic storyline created a visually compelling experience, earning acclaim for its creativity.

35. Usher ft. Lil Jon, Ludacris “Yeah!” (2004)

Usher’s “Yeah!,” directed by Mr. X, combined infectious R&B beats with vibrant visuals. The video featured energetic dance sequences and dynamic lighting, capturing the party atmosphere of the song. “Yeah!” became a chart-topping hit, and its music video added to the overall entertainment value, making it a memorable piece of mid-2000s pop culture.

36. Coldplay “The Scientist” (2005)

Coldplay’s “The Scientist,” directed by Jamie Thraves, told a reverse-chronological love story. The video featured Chris Martin moving backward through scenes of destruction and chaos, adding a poignant layer to the song’s emotional impact. “The Scientist” showcased the band’s ability to create visually striking narratives that complemented their music.

37. Gorillaz “Feel Good Inc.” (2005)

Gorillaz’s “Feel Good Inc.,” directed by Jamie Hewlett, continued the band’s exploration of animated visuals. The video featured the virtual band in a surreal, floating windmill, and its colorful, imaginative style complemented the song’s infectious groove. “Feel Good Inc.” further solidified Gorillaz’s reputation for pushing the boundaries of conventional music videos.

38. Rihanna ft. Jay-Z “Umbrella” (2007)

Rihanna’s “Umbrella,” directed by Chris Applebaum, became an instant classic. The video featured Rihanna and Jay-Z in a sleek, futuristic setting with striking visual effects. “Umbrella” not only became a chart-topping hit but also showcased Rihanna’s evolution as a pop icon with a strong visual presence.

39. OK Go “Here It Goes Again” (2006)

OK Go’s “Here It Goes Again,” directed by the band’s members, became a viral sensation for its innovative use of treadmills. The single-take video featured the band performing a synchronized routine on moving treadmills, showcasing a perfect blend of choreography and visual creativity. “Here It Goes Again” demonstrated how a simple yet well-executed concept could capture the audience’s attention.

40. Kanye West “Stronger” (2007)

Kanye West’s “Stronger,” directed by Hype Williams, combined hip-hop with futuristic visuals. The video drew inspiration from anime and featured Kanye West in a futuristic cityscape with innovative special effects. “Stronger” not only became a hit but also demonstrated Kanye West’s ability to push the boundaries of music video aesthetics.

41. Justice “D.A.N.C.E.” (2007)

Justice’s “D.A.N.C.E.,” directed by Jonas & François, embraced retro aesthetics and vibrant visuals. The video featured animated elements alongside live-action performances, creating a visually dynamic experience. “D.A.N.C.E.” became a standout in the electronic music scene and showcased the creative possibilities of combining different visual elements in a music video.

42. Beyoncé “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)” (2008)

Beyoncé’s “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It),” directed by Jake Nava, became a cultural phenomenon. The video, featuring iconic dance moves and black-and-white aesthetics, perfectly complemented the song’s message of empowerment. “Single Ladies” not only dominated the charts but also inspired countless parodies and dance covers.

43. Lady Gaga “Bad Romance” (2009)

Lady Gaga’s “Bad Romance,” directed by Francis Lawrence, was a visually stunning and avant-garde masterpiece. The video featured elaborate costumes, intricate choreography, and surreal set designs, creating a cinematic experience. “Bad Romance” not only elevated Lady Gaga’s status as a pop icon but also set a new standard for the visual extravagance of music videos.

44. Jay-Z ft. Alicia Keys “Empire State of Mind” (2009)

Jay-Z and Alicia Keys’ “Empire State of Mind,” directed by Hype Williams, celebrated the city of New York. The video featured iconic landmarks and captured the energy of the city, perfectly complementing the anthemic song. “Empire State of Mind” became a cultural phenomenon and showcased the ability of music videos to capture the spirit of a location.

45. Kanye West “Runaway” (2010)

Kanye West’s “Runaway,” directed by Kanye West himself, was a visually striking short film. The video featured ballet dancers, elaborate set designs, and surreal imagery, providing a cinematic experience. “Runaway” served as a personal expression for Kanye West and demonstrated the potential of music videos as a medium for artistic storytelling.

46. Adele “Rolling in the Deep” (2010)

Adele’s “Rolling in the Deep,” directed by Sam Brown, featured a simple yet powerful visual concept. The video showcased Adele’s emotive performance, emphasizing the raw emotion of the song. “Rolling in the Deep” became a massive success and highlighted the impact of a well-executed, emotionally resonant music video.

47. Childish Gambino “This Is America” (2018)

Childish Gambino’s “This Is America,” directed by Hiro Murai, became a cultural phenomenon for its social commentary. The video addressed issues of gun violence and racial injustice, featuring symbolism and chaotic scenes. “This Is America” sparked intense discussions and showcased the potential of music videos as a platform for addressing societal issues.

48. Billie Eilish “Bad Guy” (2019)

Billie Eilish’s “Bad Guy,” directed by Dave Meyers, embraced a playful and surreal aesthetic. The video featured quirky visuals and unexpected transitions, perfectly complementing Eilish’s unconventional style. “Bad Guy” not only became a chart-topping hit but also solidified Billie Eilish’s reputation as a boundary-pushing artist with a unique visual identity.

49. Taylor Swift “Blank Space” (2014)

Directed by Joseph Kahn, Taylor Swift’s “Blank Space” is a visually stunning and narratively compelling music video. Swift plays the role of a glamorous yet emotionally volatile character, creating a visual spectacle that mirrors the song’s themes of love, heartbreak, and the public perception of celebrities. “Blank Space” showcases Swift’s ability to embrace storytelling in her music videos, contributing to her status as one of the leading artists in the industry.

50. Kendrick Lamar “HUMBLE.” (2017)

Directed by Dave Meyers, Kendrick Lamar’s “HUMBLE.” is a visually striking and socially relevant music video. The video features Lamar in various powerful and symbolic scenes, addressing issues of race, beauty standards, and societal expectations. With its bold visuals and thought-provoking imagery, “HUMBLE.” solidifies Kendrick Lamar’s reputation as an artist who uses his music videos to convey meaningful messages and challenge societal norms.