General music video genre conventions

Following my analysis of general music videos, I feel it is only suitable to summarize my findings in a separate blog post. These conventions will be listed in bullet-points bellow:

• Most videos have either a performance or narrative elements to them.
• Most videos offer a range of editing styles, ranging from a 'cut on beat' theme more common in performance style videos, contrasting from less conventional narrative driven videos.
• In most videos exists a degree of star treatment, usually in the lead singer/song writer (even in band situations).
• Close ups are used in select amounts to provide greater emphasis on lyrical content or narrative.
• Mise-En-Scene is inherently tied to the genre of the music, whether that be through costume or location.
• Several after effects are often used to increase replayability of the tacks.
• Enigmas and oblique shots are often included to appeal to repeat viewings by audience members.
• There is often a relationship between lyrics and visuals (Vernailis and Archer) however sometimes there is none at all.
• Sub-cultures are often represented depending on target audience.
• In more mainstream music, male gaze becomes more of a prominent and influencing force.
• Mode of address is also a common theme throughout videos in general as it is an effective way of the artist communicating with the target audience demographic.