2. Conceptual Music Videos
Conceptual music videos are based of an idea or concept, they tend to be very
unusual or obscure. Furthermore, typically they contain metaphors to create a
certain mood. Indie artists commonly use conceptual music videos as they want to
seem ambiguous or they might not want to promote their image/identity.
Advantages: Can be very creative, unique and even memorable as its so unique.
Also can be very thought provoking, challenging and different.
Disadvantages: Some audiences might find the music video as a whole very
confusing, and also if there is no artist in the video, that means no self promotion.
3. Types of Conceptual Music Videos
Thematic: Based around theme, depends on the genre. (e.g. might feature lots of
urban streets)
Symbolic: Symbols to create meaning: can have lots of montage and images to
create meaning. Light suggests mood, pace suggests emotion, images can
support or contradict lyrical meaning.
4. Thematic – Raleigh Ritchie – Stronger than Ever
This song is thematic. This is because of the genre and also the setting. The
setting is in an urban location and the theme is revolved around race and how
times are tough for him.
I think that Raleigh Ritchie wanted to do this type of video to show that he isn’t
all about the performance, but is also a very humble person who understands
the struggles that people can suffer from.
In addition, I think that Ritchie wanted to show a good message of being
“Stronger than Ever” so that his audience will follow this message in life, this
also makes him seem like a very humble person.
5. Symbolic Music Videos - Lana Del Rey -
Summertime Sadness
This is a symbolic type of music video. This song is about a girl who lost her
boyfriend a long time ago. The music video is about a good time with her
boyfriend before his death hence “Summer time madness” as they had good
summertime moments with him.
I think that Del Rey did this to have a more symbolic and deeper meaning than
what is shown on the screen. Yes it’s a music video, however it has a much deeper
meaning and lots of symbolism of their relationship together.
I believe that this makes the audience feel sympathetic and makes the audience
think more deeply about the music video and their lives, and how they should
enjoy time with their loved one as someone else lost their loved partner.
