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Music Video

Music video as a form: conventions, functions and development

  • 3 things to know
  • Component 1

Overview

Primary commercial function of a music video, term promotional video as it applies to popular music and performance-based music video.

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Key term

What is a music video for, and what are the three types?

Key term

What is the primary commercial function of a music video?

Key term

Define the term promotional video as it applies to popular music.

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

  1. 1

    What is the primary commercial function of a music video?

    Model answer

    A music video promotes a song and the artist who recorded it. The video works as advertising for the release it accompanies.

  2. 2

    Define the term promotional video as it applies to popular music.

    Model answer

    A promotional video is a short film made to market a single release. The form sets recorded music against images chosen to sell it.

  3. 3

    Name the three broad types of music video identified in most critical accounts.

    Model answer

    The three types are performance, narrative and concept. Many videos blend all three rather than using one alone.

  4. 4

    What is a performance-based music video?

    Model answer

    A performance video shows the artist singing or playing, often on a stage or in a studio. Musicianship and the presence of the star are foregrounded.

  5. 5

    What distinguishes a narrative music video from a performance one?

    Model answer

    A narrative video tells a story with characters and events across the track. Performance footage may be cut in, but the story carries the video.

  6. 6

    Explain what is meant by a concept music video.

    Model answer

    A concept video is built around an idea, mood or visual motif rather than a plot. Abstract or surreal imagery replaces conventional storytelling.

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