Thursday, 3 September 2015

Conventions of Genre in Music Videos

What are the genre conventions of music videos?

  • Music is categorised into genres based on their sound, lyrics, music-beat and their image
  • Artists can be defined by one genre or my many which creates 'sub-genres' e.g. Alternative Rock
  • Three popular genres of music are Rock, Pop and Hip-hop
Rock conventions:
  • Mostly use performance shots or sometimes videos can use disjuncture
  • Themes of instruments used include electric guitars/drums which make strong/loud sound
  • Their lyrics tend to be meaningful however are based on modern concepts
  • Dark lighting/colours/clothing are commonly used which represents the tone, mood, atmosphere and content of the artists music and the colour red or religious imagery is commonly used
  • An example of a rock music video which follows conventions is: Nirvana - 'Heart-Shaped Box'

Pop conventions:
  • Music videos range from performance, amplification, illustration and disjuncture
  • Quirky outfits or the latest fashions are worn as well as bright and eye-catching colours
  • Videos are commonly choreographed, especially those of boy bands and girl bands
  • Locations can also range widely but are commonly urban
  • An example of a pop music video is: Ariana Grande - 'Problem'

Hip-hop conventions:
  • Mostly use performance, amplification or illustration in videos
  • Videos show wealth by promoting cars, fashion and objectifying women
  • Darker lighting is common is some videos which are about darker themes however Hip-hop videos about aspiration are commonly filmed on beaches or mansions and places of wealth
  • An example of a Hip-hop music video is: Jay-Z - 'Dirt off your shoulder'

No comments:

Post a Comment