Over the past decade, music videos have evolved into more than just promotional tools. They’ve become cultural milestones, pushing the boundaries of creativity and technology. The visual component of a song can often elevate it to iconic status, leaving a lasting impact on both the music industry and society at large. From stunning visuals to innovative concepts and groundbreaking performances, here are some of the most iconic music videos of the past decade.
1. “Formation” – Beyoncé (2016)
Beyoncé’s “Formation” became an instant cultural phenomenon, not just for its music but for its powerful and provocative visual storytelling. The video blends political commentary, Black empowerment, and references to African-American culture, with Beyoncé delivering a strong message about identity and resistance. The stunning visuals, from the shot of her standing on a sinking police car to the powerful imagery of New Orleans, cemented “Formation” as one of the most iconic videos of the 2010s.
- Why It’s Iconic: The music video was both a celebration of Black culture and a call to action against systemic oppression. It was a masterclass in using music and visuals to make a statement.
2. “Bad Guy” – Billie Eilish (2019)
Billie Eilish’s “Bad Guy” became a viral sensation, and its music video followed suit with bizarre and quirky visuals that perfectly matched the song’s unique vibe. The video features surreal imagery, such as Billie in a bright yellow outfit moving through a series of wild and outlandish scenarios, from a grocery store to a dance-off. The experimental use of color, visual effects, and the song’s playful, yet dark tone, made this video stand out in pop culture.
- Why It’s Iconic: The eccentric style of Billie Eilish and the avant-garde visuals were a breath of fresh air in the music video world. The video’s playful absurdity and Billie’s unique artistic identity made it a defining moment of her rise to fame.
3. “This Is America” – Childish Gambino (2018)
Childish Gambino’s “This Is America” was not only one of the most talked-about songs of the decade, but its music video was equally influential. Directed by Hiro Murai, the video is a stark commentary on race, gun violence, and American society, blending shocking, often disturbing imagery with catchy pop elements. The video’s blend of surrealism, symbolism, and jarring contrasts (like the gun violence in the midst of cheerful dancing) left a profound impact on viewers.
- Why It’s Iconic: The video sparked countless discussions about the state of America and the intersection of race, politics, and media. Its haunting visuals, combined with powerful themes, made it an unforgettable piece of art.
4. “WAP” – Cardi B feat. Megan Thee Stallion (2020)
Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion’s “WAP” was a cultural moment that generated massive buzz, and its video became equally iconic. The visual imagery, featuring luxurious sets, elaborate choreography, and bold fashion, sparked discussions about female empowerment, sexuality, and the power of explicit content in mainstream music. The video was as extravagant as the song itself, with both artists delivering fierce performances throughout.
- Why It’s Iconic: The video celebrated female sexuality with unapologetic confidence, leading to both praise and controversy. It was one of the most talked-about videos of 2020 and solidified both Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion as dominant forces in hip-hop.
5. “Look What You Made Me Do” – Taylor Swift (2017)
Taylor Swift’s “Look What You Made Me Do” marked a dramatic shift in her image, and the video played a key role in this transformation. The video, directed by Joseph Kahn, is a complex narrative filled with Easter eggs, visual callbacks to Swift’s previous works, and references to pop culture and her public feuds. Swift adopts a darker persona, with the video showcasing her playing with themes of revenge, self-awareness, and reinvention.
- Why It’s Iconic: The video was a visual spectacle, with Swift’s transformation into various personas capturing the attention of fans and critics alike. It was a pivotal moment in her career, signaling a departure from her country-pop roots to a more edgy, confrontational image.
6. “Blinding Lights” – The Weeknd (2020)
The Weeknd’s “Blinding Lights” became an undeniable anthem, and its video, directed by Anton Tammi, was equally iconic. The video features The Weeknd running through neon-lit streets at night, evoking the 80s-inspired retro aesthetics that became synonymous with the song. The cinematic visuals, combined with The Weeknd’s emotionally charged performance, made it a standout.
- Why It’s Iconic: The video perfectly complemented the song’s nostalgic, synth-heavy vibe, and its striking visuals, coupled with The Weeknd’s unique performance, made it a captivating watch. The video also introduced the artist’s “After Hours” persona in a way that felt both cinematic and personal.
7. “God Is a Woman” – Ariana Grande (2018)
Ariana Grande’s “God Is a Woman” is a visually stunning music video that blends sensuality with spirituality. Directed by Dave Meyers, the video features surreal visuals, including Grande floating in a universe of vibrant colors and dramatic imagery. The video’s themes of female empowerment, sexual liberation, and religion came together in a visually arresting way that left a lasting impact on viewers.
- Why It’s Iconic: The video’s visually rich imagery and strong feminist themes made it a defining moment in Ariana Grande’s career. It challenged traditional notions of femininity and showcased Ariana as a bold, boundary-pushing artist.
8. “HUMBLE.” – Kendrick Lamar (2017)
Kendrick Lamar’s “HUMBLE.” music video was a striking commentary on vanity, self-awareness, and societal expectations. The video, directed by Dave Meyers, features Kendrick in a variety of visually arresting scenes, including a powerful moment where he’s surrounded by women who appear to be both empowered and objectified. The video’s minimalist aesthetic and symbolic use of imagery made it a powerful visual accompaniment to the song’s message.
- Why It’s Iconic: The video’s striking simplicity and thought-provoking imagery made it one of the standout visuals of Kendrick Lamar’s career. It was a perfect reflection of the song’s themes of humility, identity, and self-awareness.
9. “Chandelier” – Sia (2014)
Sia’s “Chandelier” music video features one of the most iconic performances in recent years. The video showcases dancer Maddie Ziegler, who was just 11 at the time, performing an intense, emotionally charged dance routine that perfectly complements the song’s raw, dramatic lyrics. The minimalist set and striking choreography made this video unforgettable.
- Why It’s Iconic: The video’s combination of powerful dance performance and emotionally charged music resonated with audiences worldwide. Maddie Ziegler’s striking performance helped cement Sia’s reputation as an artist who uses both music and visual art to tell powerful stories.
10. “Old Town Road” – Lil Nas X (2019)
Lil Nas X’s “Old Town Road” took over the world in 2019, and its music video only amplified the song’s cultural impact. The video is a wild ride, blending Western and hip-hop aesthetics, with Lil Nas X in various over-the-top scenarios, including a cowboy showdown and a whimsical rodeo. The video perfectly matched the song’s genre-blending nature and its infectious, meme-worthy quality.
- Why It’s Iconic: The video became a viral sensation, with its playful, irreverent style and unapologetic mix of country and hip-hop. It reflected the song’s viral status and helped solidify Lil Nas X as a groundbreaking artist.
Conclusion
The most iconic music videos of the past decade have redefined the way music is consumed and experienced. These videos not only complement the songs they represent but also push artistic boundaries, challenge societal norms, and spark cultural conversations. From Beyoncé’s political statements to Billie Eilish’s quirky creativity, the music videos of the 2010s have left an indelible mark on pop culture. These visuals will continue to influence the music industry for years to come.
