The modern music industry has long been in a state of flux; new trends appear and innovational artists take the main stage. As so, much of today’s popular music is characterized by futuristic notes, laced with electronic beats. At the same time, it seems that more artists are creating high-definition music videos with cinematic quality. With these kinds of music videos dominating the market, animated music videos appear to have gone out of fashion.
Unlike common, live-action music videos, animated versions often evoke a retro, sometimes nostalgic feel or emanate deep aesthetic vibes from the art it utilizes. Some rely on computer graphics while others employ the more difficult, traditional animation, which frequently involves hand-drawn cels (short for celluloids). The artist or band may not always be featured, but instead depicts a story that accompanies the song. Since the 2000s, numerous animated music videos have garnered widespread popularity and brought attention to the new possibilities of the medium.
Here are some exceptionally crafted pieces of the 2010s that offer broad insight into the world of animated music videos. Whether the song is popular or not, the music video deserves to be seen, regardless of one’s taste in music.
1. The Real Tuesday Weld – “Me and Mr. Wolf” (2011)
Animation: George Fort
(WARNING: contains violent imagery such as gore and alcoholism)The racy, slick feelings of the Jazz Age can be felt in this dark yet enticing work by the Real Tuesday Weld, a band that deals with classic beats reminiscent of the aforementioned time period. Watch the dangerous relationship between an alcoholic werewolf and a femme fatale in this fresh retelling of Little Red Riding Hood. Note that the animation and closely resembles the black-and-white series of the 1930s, such as Betty Boop.
2. Breakbot – “Baby I’m Yours” (2012)
Animation: Irina Dakeva
Almost every frame of this music video is a work of art on its own. Made from almost 2000 watercolor images, Breakbot’s “Baby I’m Yours” is a feast for both the eyes and the ears. The upbeat rhythm and romantic vibes resonate in this vibrant masterpiece. The myriad of colors set against the stark black background, including juicy yellows and cool blues, bring out the energy of the song.
3. Studio Killers – “Jenny” (2013)
Animation: Eliza Jäppinen
One of the most beautifully crafted and compelling music videos that celebrate LGBTQ people, “Jenny” is a must-see for queer folks. Follow the romance between Cherry, the lead singer of the virtual band Studio Killers, and her girlfriend Jenny – the titular character of this sun-kissed adventure. Bright tropical shades frame the passionate love between this lesbian couple, creating an alluring film.
4. Mystery Skulls – “Ghost” (2014)
Animation: Ben Mangum, Isaiah Kim, and Blake Hudson
While it may seem cartoonish for its style and similar to Scooby-Doo, this neon-colored film is not to be underestimated. A retro beat accompanies the story of an adventurous trio as they explore a haunted mansion, inhabited by a vengeful ghost that reveals shocking truths. Enjoy this funky blend of pop and mystery, paired with the spooky narrative.
5. Caravan Palace – “Lone Digger” (2015)
Animation: Jérémie Balais and Jeff le Bars
(WARNING: contains violent imagery such as gore and sexual notes)
Action, blood, and alcohol come together to create this wild masterpiece by Caravan Palace. Paired with the band’s characteristic electro swing, the animation brings anthropomorphic figures to life in this stylish music video. Witness this unique world of “Lone Digger,” laced with jazzy beats that evoke the sexy feelings of night life.
6. NERO – “Into the Night” (2015)
Animation: Red Knuckles (studio)
If you are an admirer of the 80s and retro Japanese anime, this is the ideal music video for you. A combination of 2D and 3D animation creates a cinematic adventure, complete with the tempting, high-energy music by NERO. A suave bike rider runs through the glittering city of a futuristic Tokyo as he completes his mission amid the rain and blackness of the night. One can immediately feel the speed and chic nature of “Into the Night” as the rider takes us through the lights and darkness.
7. Charles X – “Can you do it” (2016)
Animation: Brunch (studio)
The music pairs smoothly with the chill, groovy atmosphere of “Can you do it” – a fashionable world inhabited by a community of elegant black folks. The video shows a festival taking place in the aforementioned location, as people celebrate with horseracing, music, and love. Abstract forms and urban palettes make up this retro-style work of art, evoking the calm yet energetic feel of the song.
8. SIAMÉS – “The Wolf” (2016)
Animation: RUDO Co. (studio)
Watch a group of strangers connect via the menacing entity – “the wolf.” The minimal style of the animation strongly emphasizes the action and adventurous feel of the music video. The bright red of the wolves’ eyes strongly contrast from the heavily black-and-white palette of the animation. Although multiple interpretations can be made, feel free to enjoy the trio’s escape and final confrontation with the beasts along to SIAMÉS’ electric beats.
9. Unknown Mortal Orchestra – “Hunnybee” (2018)
Animation: Greg Sharp and Truba Animation (studio)
As seen in the picturesque scenery of the forests and mountains that rush by from the train window, this work is characterized by a relaxing tone. The music, paired with the gentle animation, brings to mind the anticipation or happiness of an upcoming vacation. The music video is distinct for its aesthetics and also for its ominous hints: there are signs both in the film and music that indicate dark things lurk beneath the sunny surface.
10. Gorillaz – “Humility” (2018)
Animation: The Line (studio)
Gorillaz is perhaps the most well-known artist group for its iconic animated music videos, often employing various media and even including live action. A chill rhythm, integrated into a smoothly animated video, presents a unique musical experience. Summer hues and a soothing beat come together to create this hit. Note the photorealistic animation, especially in the movement and lighting.