The History Of The Music Video
Music Videos are a short film that is used to accompany the piece of music. They are usually around 2-3 minutes long and are used as a marketing device to promote the product. Here is a brief run through of the history of music videos.
1929: St Louis Blues featuring Bessie Smith.
This is one of the earliest examples of a music video. Jazz singer Bessie Smith starred in a two - reel short film named St Louis Blues. The popularity of the video lead to it being shown in cinemas until 1932.
1950's - This is when we started to see music promos being made. It is said that the first was Tony Bennett in 1956.
1970's - This is when we saw the the introduction of Top of the Pops. This was a Brtish Music chart Television programme shown on the BBC. This made a big difference on music in the UK.
1981 - Music Telivision was intorduced. Also known as MTV, the American show was used to play music videos. The show was hosted by "Video Jockeys" also known as "VJ'S".
When the band Queen released their song Bohemian Rhapsody, it was the start of the a new era in music videos. The video is often labelled as a "Game Changer" in the music industry. The song was released in 1975.
Michael Jackson's hit song Thriller was released in 1982. Micheal Jackson is said to be the first artist to create a short film with their song. The 14 minute video includes a beginning a middle and an end. The film was actually released in within theatres and went on to become one of the most successful and popular songs of its time.
