From moonwalking icons to futuristic visuals that broke the internet, music videos have shaped pop culture in unforgettable ways. Over the decades, they’ve transformed from simple performance clips to full-blown cinematic masterpieces.
This article dives into the most iconic, creative, and visually striking music videos ever made – the kind that leave a lasting impression and demand a rewatch. Whether you’re here for nostalgia or looking to discover hidden gems, you’re in for a visual ride through music history.
Note: This list is a mix of personal opinion and additional factors such as cultural impact, innovation, visual storytelling, and fan reception.
What’s The Most Popular Music Video Ever?
Beyoncé’s Formation is considered one of the most popular music videos.
When it comes to cultural influence and critical acclaim, the video stands at the top. Released in 2016, it wasn’t just a music video – it was a bold celebration of Black identity, Southern heritage, and political resistance.
Directed by Melina Matsoukas, its striking visuals and unapologetic messaging sparked conversation worldwide. Named the greatest music video of all time by Rolling Stone, “Formation” redefined what a music video could represent in modern pop culture.
Top 10 Best Music Videos Of All Time
These music videos have set benchmarks in creativity, storytelling, and cultural impact. Here are the top 10 music videos of all time:
| Rank | Music Video | Artist | Released Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Formation | Beyoncé | 2016 |
| 2 | Hurt | Johnny Cash | 2003 |
| 3 | Vogue | Madonna | 1990 |
| 4 | This Is America | Childish Gambino | 2018 |
| 5 | The Perfect Kiss | New Order | 1985 |
| 6 | Sabotage | Beastie Boys | 1994 |
| 7 | Untitled (How Does It Feel?) | D’Angelo | 2000 |
| 8 | Sledgehammer | Peter Gabriel | 1986 |
| 9 | November Rain | Guns N’ Roses | 1992 |
| 10 | Billie Jean | Michael Jackson | 1983 |
Let’s look at the details of each music video that has left an indelible mark on the music industry and pop culture.
1. Formation By Beyonce
| Released Year | 2016 |
| Artist | Beyoncé |
| Genre | R&B / Pop |
| Director | Melina Matsoukas |
| Notable Achievements | Named the greatest music video of all time by Rolling Stone, it won multiple awards, including MTV Video Music Awards, and was praised for its powerful commentary on Black identity and culture. |
“Formation” by Beyoncé is a powerful and visually striking music video that blends bold imagery with strong social and political messages. Released in 2016, it celebrates Black culture, resilience, and identity, addressing themes like police brutality and Southern heritage.
The video’s striking visuals and choreography, paired with Beyoncé’s commanding presence, made it an iconic cultural moment that sparked conversations about race, feminism, and empowerment in the music industry and beyond.
Do you know: Beyoncé has the most Grammy awards? Check out the complete list to find other artists.
2. Hurt By Johnny Cash
| Released Year | 2003 |
| Artist | Johnny Cash |
| Genre | Country / Alternative Rock |
| Director | Mark Romanek |
| Notable Achievements | Critically acclaimed for its emotional depth, nominated for a Grammy and MTV Video Music Awards, and considered one of the most poignant music videos ever made. |
Johnny Cash’s “Hurt” music video is a deeply emotional and haunting visual that complements his raw, reflective cover of the Nine Inch Nails song. Released in 2003, the video poignantly portrays themes of regret, aging, and mortality, using intimate footage of Cash’s life and career.
Its stark black-and-white imagery and Cash’s vulnerable performance create a powerful tribute to his legacy, resonating deeply with fans and critics alike as one of the most moving music videos ever made.
3. Vogue By Madonna
| Released Year | 1990 |
| Artist | Madonna |
| Genre | Pop / Dance |
| Director | David Fincher |
| Notable Achievements | Brought underground ballroom culture to mainstream; iconic choreography; significant influence on pop culture and fashion. |
Madonna’s “Vogue” music video, released in 1990, is a glamorous celebration of the New York ballroom scene and the art of voguing dance. Directed by David Fincher, the black-and-white video combines stylish choreography, elegant fashion, and striking poses inspired by classic Hollywood icons.
It became a cultural milestone, popularizing voguing worldwide and solidifying Madonna’s status as a trendsetter who champions self-expression and LGBTQ+ culture through her music and visuals.
4. This Is America By Childish Gambino
| Released Year | 2018 |
| Artist | Childish Gambino |
| Genre | Hip-Hop / Trap |
| Director | Hiro Murai |
| Notable Achievements | Won Grammy for Best Music Video; praised for its commentary on gun violence and racial issues; sparked widespread analysis and discussion. |
Childish Gambino’s “This Is America” music video is a bold, provocative masterpiece that blends catchy beats with intense social commentary. Released in 2018, it addresses issues like gun violence, racism, and media distraction in America.
The video’s chaotic, symbolic scenes and powerful choreography contrast starkly with its upbeat music, creating a striking visual narrative that sparked widespread discussion about race and violence in the United States. It’s hailed as one of the most impactful music videos of its time.
5. The Perfect Kiss By New Order
| Released Year | 1985 |
| Artist | New Order |
| Genre | Synth-pop / New Wave |
| Director | Jonathan Demme |
| Notable Achievements | Praised for its minimalist approach, it showcases the band’s raw performance without embellishments and is considered a classic in music video history. |
New Order’s “The Perfect Kiss” music video, released in 1985, captures the band’s distinctive blend of post-punk and electronic music with a cool, understated visual style. Shot mostly in a studio, it features dynamic performance footage mixed with abstract and symbolic imagery that complements the song’s emotional intensity.
The video reflects the 1980s alternative music scene and helped cement New Order’s reputation as pioneers in merging dance rhythms with rock sensibilities.
6. Sabotage By Beastie Boys
| Released Year | 1994 |
| Artist | Beastie Boys |
| Genre | Rap Rock / Alternative Hip-Hop |
| Director | Spike Jonze |
| Notable Achievements | Nominated for multiple MTV Video Music Awards; acclaimed for its parody of 1970s cop shows; influential in music video storytelling. |
Beastie Boys’ “Sabotage” music video, released in 1994 and directed by Spike Jonze, is a high-energy, hilarious homage to 1970s crime dramas. Featuring the band members as over-the-top, fake detectives, the video is packed with wild action, cheesy effects, and explosive scenes.
Its playful style and clever parody made it an instant cult classic, influencing music video comedy and earning lasting acclaim for its creativity and bold, rebellious spirit.
7. Untitled (How Does It Feel?) By D’Angelo
| Released Year | 2000 |
| Artist | D’Angelo |
| Genre | Neo-Soul / R&B |
| Director | Paul Hunter |
| Notable Achievements | Critically acclaimed for its intimate portrayal, nominated for multiple MTV Video Music Awards, and sparked conversations about male vulnerability and sexuality. |
D’Angelo’s “Untitled (How Does It Feel?)” music video, released in 2000, is renowned for its raw sensuality and simplicity. Featuring close-up shots of D’Angelo’s bare torso, the video highlights his vulnerability and emotional depth through slow, intimate movements.
Its minimalist approach broke conventions in R&B visuals, stirring both admiration and controversy. This bold portrayal helped redefine male sensuality in music videos and remains one of the most memorable and provocative visuals of its era.
8. Sledgehammer By Peter Gabriel
| Released Year | 1986 |
| Artist | Peter Gabriel |
| Genre | Art Rock / Pop |
| Director | Stephen R. Johnson |
| Notable Achievements | Won nine MTV Video Music Awards; renowned for its innovative use of stop-motion animation; considered a landmark in music video production. |
Peter Gabriel’s “Sledgehammer” music video, released in 1986, is a groundbreaking blend of stop-motion animation, claymation, and innovative visual effects. The vibrant, surreal imagery perfectly complements the song’s funky, upbeat vibe, creating a playful and unforgettable experience.
Directed by Stephen R. Johnson, it became one of the most iconic videos of the 1980s, winning numerous awards and setting a new standard for creativity and artistry in music videos worldwide.
9. November Rain By Guns N’ Roses
| Released Year | 1992 |
| Artist | Guns N’ Roses |
| Genre | Hard Rock / Ballad |
| Director | Andy Morahan |
| Notable Achievements | MTV’s most-requested video of 1992; first video from the ’90s to surpass one billion views on YouTube; known for its cinematic scope. |
Guns N’ Roses’ “November Rain” music video, released in 1992, is a cinematic epic blending rock balladry with a dramatic love story. Featuring sweeping orchestration and stunning visuals, it showcases the band’s emotional depth and musical ambition.
The video’s memorable scenes – including a lavish wedding and a poignant rain-soaked funeral – enhance the song’s themes of love, loss, and longing. Its grandeur and storytelling made it one of the most iconic and expensive music videos of the early ’90s.
10. Billie Jean By Michael Jackson
| Released Year | 1983 |
| Artist | Michael Jackson |
| Genre | Pop / R&B |
| Director | Steve Barron |
| Notable Achievements | Broke racial barriers on MTV; iconic for its visual effects and Jackson’s performance; pivotal in establishing music videos as a promotional tool. |
Guns N’ Roses’ “November Rain” music video, released in 1992, is a cinematic epic blending rock balladry with a dramatic love story. Featuring sweeping orchestration and stunning visuals, it showcases the band’s emotional depth and musical ambition.
The video’s memorable scenes – including a lavish wedding and a poignant rain-soaked funeral – enhance the song’s themes of love, loss, and longing. Its grandeur and storytelling made it one of the most iconic and expensive music videos of the early ’90s.
Top 20 Best Music Videos Of All Time
Continuing our exploration of iconic music videos, here are the next ten that have left a huge mark on the music industry and pop culture.
| Rank | Music Video | Artist | Released Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | Freedom ’90 | George Michael | 1990 |
| 12 | Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It) | Beyoncé | 2008 |
| 13 | Smells Like Teen Spirit | Nirvana | 1991 |
| 14 | Take on Me | A-ha | 1985 |
| 15 | Fell in Love With a Girl | The White Stripes | 2002 |
| 16 | The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly) | Missy Elliott | 1997 |
| 17 | Hungry Like the Wolf | Duran Duran | 1982 |
| 18 | Kiss | Prince | 1986 |
| 19 | Paranoid Android | Radiohead | 1997 |
| 20 | Nobody Speak | DJ Shadow feat. Run the Jewels | 2016 |
Now, let’s take a look at the top 20 music videos of all time in more detail.
11. Freedom ’90 By George Michael
| Released Year | 1990 |
| Artist | George Michael |
| Genre | Pop / Dance |
| Director | David Fincher |
| Notable Achievements | Famous for its bold use of supermodels lip-syncing instead of the artist, it broke away from Michael’s previous image and became a defining moment in ’90s pop culture. |
George Michael’s “Freedom ’90” video is a stylish and iconic visual that rejects his earlier image by featuring supermodels lip-syncing the song instead of him.
Released in 1990, it celebrates self-expression and independence, becoming a symbol of artistic freedom and 90s fashion, while marking a bold new chapter in George Michael’s career.
12. Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It) By Beyoncé
| Released Year | 2008 |
| Artist | Beyoncé |
| Genre | R&B / Pop |
| Director | Jake Nava |
| Notable Achievements | Famous for its simple yet hypnotic choreography, it sparked countless parodies and dance challenges and won multiple MTV Video Music Awards. |
Beyoncé’s “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)” music video is a minimalist dance masterpiece, released in 2008. Featuring Beyoncé and two backup dancers in black leotards, the video showcases iconic choreography that sparked a global dance craze.
Its simplicity, energy, and empowering message about independence made it an instant cultural phenomenon and a defining moment in pop music.
13. Smells Like Teen Spirit By Nirvana
| Released Year | 1991 |
| Artist | Nirvana |
| Genre | Grunge / Rock |
| Director | Samuel Bayer |
| Notable Achievements | It became an anthem for Generation X, symbolized grunge culture, and was heavily rotated on MTV, boosting Nirvana’s global fame. |
Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit” video, released in 1991, captures the raw energy and rebellious spirit of grunge.
Set in a high school gym, it features chaotic performances and a rowdy crowd, symbolizing youth disillusionment. The video became a defining moment for the band and helped propel grunge into mainstream culture worldwide.
14. Take on Me By A-ha
| Released Year | 1985 |
| Artist | A-ha |
| Genre | Synth-pop |
| Director | Steve Barron |
| Notable Achievements | An iconic blend of live-action and pencil-sketch animation, it won several awards and is hugely influential in video storytelling techniques. |
A-ha’s “Take on Me” music video, released in 1985, is famous for its innovative blend of live-action and pencil-sketch animation.
The video tells a romantic, fantasy story where a girl is pulled into a comic book world. Its groundbreaking rotoscope technique and catchy visuals made it an enduring classic of 80s music videos.
15. Fell in Love With a Girl By The White Stripes
| Released Year | 2002 |
| Artist | The White Stripes |
| Genre | Alternative Rock |
| Director | Michel Gondry |
| Notable Achievements | Used Lego stop-motion animation; won awards for creativity; visually striking despite simplicity. |
The White Stripes’ “Fell in Love With a Girl” video, released in 2002, is a vibrant, fast-paced visual made entirely with LEGO animation.
Its playful, colorful style perfectly matches the band’s raw garage rock energy. Directed by Michel Gondry, the video’s creativity and unique approach helped it become a memorable and influential piece in early 2000s music culture.
16. The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly) By Missy Elliott
| Released Year | 1997 |
| Artist | Missy Elliott |
| Genre | Hip-Hop / R&B |
| Director | Hype Williams |
| Notable Achievements | Futuristic visuals and bold fashion established Missy Elliott’s visual identity, which was heavily influential in hip-hop video style. |
Missy Elliott’s “The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)” video, released in 1997, is a bold, futuristic visual filled with innovative special effects and striking fashion.
Featuring Missy in her iconic inflated trash bag outfit, the video blends surreal imagery with hip-hop swagger, setting a new standard for creativity and style in rap music videos.
17. Hungry Like the Wolf By Duran Duran
| Released Year | 1982 |
| Artist | Duran Duran |
| Genre | New Wave |
| Director | Russell Mulcahy |
| Notable Achievements | Exotic jungle setting; MTV staple; helped pioneer cinematic storytelling in music videos. |
Duran Duran’s “Hungry Like the Wolf” video, released in 1982, is an adventurous, cinematic journey set in a jungle inspired by “Indiana Jones.”
Its fast-paced editing and exotic visuals perfectly capture the song’s energy and allure. The video played a major role in the band’s rise to fame and became a staple of early MTV’s golden era.
18. Kiss By Prince
| Released Year | 1986 |
| Artist | Prince |
| Genre | Funk / Pop |
| Director | Rebecca Blake |
| Notable Achievements | Minimalist but iconic; showcased Prince’s charisma and style; Grammy Award winner. |
Prince’s “Kiss” music video, released in 1986, is a minimalist yet electrifying performance piece showcasing his signature funk style and charismatic stage presence.
With simple lighting and choreography, the video highlights Prince’s sensuality and musical genius, perfectly capturing the song’s playful and seductive vibe. It remains a timeless classic in his iconic catalog.
19. Paranoid Android By Radiohead
| Released Year | 1997 |
| Artist | Radiohead |
| Genre | Alternative Rock |
| Director | Magnus Carlsson |
| Notable Achievements | Animated video with surreal, dark imagery; cult favorite; highly creative and unique. |
Radiohead’s “Paranoid Android” video, released in 1997, is a surreal and unsettling animated short that complements the song’s complex, shifting moods.
Its dark, abstract imagery and bizarre characters create a haunting atmosphere, reflecting themes of anxiety and alienation. The video stands out as a bold artistic statement in the alternative rock scene and remains a fan favorite.
20. Nobody Speak By DJ Shadow feat. Run the Jewels
| Released Year | 2016 |
| Artist | DJ Shadow feat. Run the Jewels |
| Genre | Hip-Hop |
| Director | Sam Pilling |
| Notable Achievements | Powerful political commentary; visually striking fight sequence; praised for its bold message. |
DJ Shadow feat. Run the Jewels’ “Nobody Speak” video, released in 2016, is a gritty, satirical portrayal of a chaotic political debate turning into an all-out fight.
Combining sharp social commentary with energetic hip-hop beats, the video’s humor and intensity highlight themes of power struggles and media spectacle, making it a memorable and provocative visual statement.
30 Best Music Videos Of All Time
Let’s continue the countdown with music videos that broke barriers, set new trends, and continue to inspire – the next ten on our list are pure visual gold and packed with unforgettable moments.
| Rank | Music Video | Artist | Released Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| 21 | Weapon of Choice | Fatboy Slim | 2001 |
| 22 | Wyclef Jean | Young Thug | 2017 |
| 23 | 99 Problems | Jay-Z | 2004 |
| 24 | Maps | Yeah Yeah Yeahs | 2003 |
| 25 | One | U2 | 1992 |
| 26 | Teardrop | Massive Attack | 1998 |
| 27 | California Love | 2Pac feat. Dr. Dre | 1995 |
| 28 | Rabbit in Your Headlights | Unkle feat. Thom Yorke | 1998 |
| 29 | Apeshit | The Carters | 2018 |
| 30 | …Baby One More Time | Britney Spears | 1998 |
Other reads that you might love checking out:
- Most Followed Musicians On Instagram
- Richest Singers In The World
- Top 10 Upcoming Music Tours of 2025
Conclusion: Beyoncé’s “Formation” Truly Reigns As The Best Music Video Of All Time!
From groundbreaking choreography to genre-defining visuals, music videos have shaped pop culture in unforgettable ways. Our list celebrated iconic works across decades – from Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” and Madonna’s “Vogue” to Beyoncé’s “Formation”, which claimed the top spot for its bold artistry and cultural impact.
These videos aren’t just entertainment – they’re statements, stories, and moments frozen in time. Whether it’s the innovation of “Take On Me” or the rebellion in “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” these classics prove that music videos are an art form all their own.
FAQs
Beyoncé’s “Formation” is widely regarded as the best for its bold visuals, cultural commentary, and flawless execution.
“Despacito” by Luis Fonsi featuring Daddy Yankee holds the record with over 8 billion views.
Classics like “Thriller” and “Take On Me” remain iconic and influential even decades after their release.
They combine visual storytelling with music, enhance artist branding, and often spark cultural trends and conversations.
Pop, hip-hop, and alternative rock dominate thanks to their visual experimentation and mainstream appeal.
Leave a Comment