Narrative and Performance

Often, music videos will cut between a narrative and a performance of the song by the band. Additionally, a carefully choreographed dance might be a part of the artist’s performance. An artist could have a particular move that is unique to themselves which they incorporate in their music videos. Such as Michael Jacksons thriller move.

Sometimes, the artist will be a part of the story, acting as a narrator and participant at the same time. But it is the lip sync close-up shots and the miming of playing instruments that remains the key of good music videos.

The mise en scene in particular can be used as a symbol and make the music videos unique to the artist and have props etc. that relate to them and their songs.