This is a PowerPoint which explains the different theories regarding representation in music videos.

1. Theories of
Representation in Music
Videos
Elizabeth Connolly

2. Women in Music Videos
• Often presented as over sexualised
• Objectification by men and others within the video
• Women often seen dancing or moving provocatively
• Asserting themselves using their sexuality
• Often receive sexist representations, with men
being portrayed as stronger and more dominant
• Laura Mulvey argued the theory of the ‘male gaze’.
This is the idea that women are only placed in
music videos in order to be looked at or viewed by
men – they are positioned for the man’s pleasure
• This traditional representation of women is very
damaging as it reflects very badly on feminism and
women’s position within society
• Some female artists challenge this representation
by presenting themselves as strong, independent
and powerful such as artists like Adele, who uses
her highly impressive vocal technique to assert
herself in her videos.

4. Men in Music Videos
• Men are often portrayed as more dominant and
powerful in music videos
• They are often pictured in locations associated
with wealth and luxury.
• This applies also to the clothes that they wear in
the videos as well
• They are often presented using the concepts
traditionally associated with masculinity such as
aggression and strength.
• It is however arguable that the image of
masculinity has changed over the years, leaving
room for a more accessible image of masculinity.

5. Hegemonic Masculinity
in Music Videos
• This is a form of masculinity which
demonstrates one male being
powerful above everyone else within
the video whether its other men or
women being shown as ‘subordinate’
• Characteristics of this type of
masculinity are often drive, ambition
and misogynistic attitudes towards
women.

6. Same-Sex Relationships
in Music Videos
• This type of relationship was not as common within
music videos, however is now shown more
throughout this media
• Mainstream artists such as Hozier and Sam Smith
have recently released songs in which homosexual
relationships are presented
• Homo-eroticism however has been more common
throughout music videos, as this refers to a more
temporary state of the desire itself, as opposed to
homosexuality which suggests a more permanent
sexual preference.

7. Example Music Videos…
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e82VE8UtW8A - Rihanna
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rYEDA3JcQqw - Adele
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5srnNrICJo - Jay Z
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HaMq2nn5ac0 - Sam Smith