Knowledge of music videos

Why do we have music videos?

Music videos have been used for many years for a wide variety of reasons. The majority of which are for financial gain for the production company, record label and artist themselves. One reason for having music videos is the promotion of the song and artist. This means that it advertises both the song itself as well as the performer, meaning they become more popular, which ultimately results in a higher grossing artist for the record label. Secondly, it is a potential catalyst for higher paying record deals with larger companies such as Virgin Records and Universal Music. This can lead to further endorsements or sponsors for the artist, which means a higher financial income for the artist and related crew. Thirdly, it broadens the exhibition platforms. This means that instead of just playing the song on radio, it is available to the audience on their TV’s, as well as social media sites on their computers, tablets and mobile phones. This means it is much more popular, resulting in higher profits for the production company and the artist.

 What do we expect music videos to have in them?

Music videos – in terms of narrative) are expected to have the following five stages that were founded by Todorov:
1. A state of equilibrium (All is as it should be.)
2. A disruption of that order by an event.
3. A recognition that the disorder has occurred.
4. An attempt to repair the damage of the disruption.
5. A return or restoration of a NEW equilibrium
Todorov’s theory apply to the majority of music videos, or at least some of the stages. This adds to the impact of the narrative, and gives a basic structure for a 3-5 minute film that accompanies the song itself.
We also expect to see some sort of performance by the artist themselves. This is common in a vast majority of music videos, and can add to the effect of the song itself as well as the lyrics.

How will it help?
By looking at the above information, we will use these aspects, particularly Todorov's theory, in our video. This will ensure we have the characteristics of a successful video, and therefore make it extremely plausible we have a professional looking music video, which will certify we have a high graded piece.