Music videos have become an integral part of the music industry, with artists using them to visually enhance their songs and tell their stories. From Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” to Beyoncé’s “Formation,” music videos have become an art form in their own right. But what goes on behind the scenes to make these iconic videos?
Creating a music video is a collaborative effort between the artist, the director, the producer, and the crew. The process typically begins with the artist and the director discussing the concept and vision for the video. This may involve storyboarding, casting, and location scouting. Once the concept has been finalized, the production team sets to work on making the vision a reality.
One of the most important aspects of creating a music video is the location. The right location can make or break a video, setting the tone and atmosphere for the entire production. For example, in Beyoncé’s “Formation,” the video was shot in New Orleans, Louisiana, which is the birthplace of jazz and has a rich history of civil rights activism. The location helped to reinforce the video’s message of black empowerment and pride.
Another crucial aspect of music video production is the choreography. Many music videos feature intricate dance routines, which require careful planning and execution. In Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” for example, the iconic dance routine was choreographed by Michael Peters and required months of rehearsal before it was filmed.
Once the location and choreography are set, the crew begins filming. This can be a long and grueling process, with days or even weeks of filming required to capture all the necessary shots. Depending on the complexity of the video, multiple cameras and angles may be used to ensure that every detail is captured.
After filming is complete, the video goes into post-production, where it is edited and polished. This can involve color grading, special effects, and adding in additional footage or animation. The goal is to create a seamless and visually stunning video that enhances the artist’s music and message.
Overall, creating an iconic music video is a complex and collaborative process that requires a lot of hard work and creativity. From the location to the choreography to the post-production, every step is important in creating a video that resonates with audiences and stands the test of time.