Have you experienced this: you like a song only to like it less after seeing a disappointing video? On the flip side, have you loved a song only after seeing the amazing video that came from it? I often wonder why so many artists, especially the ones who have the clout, don’t exercise their right to create complementary videos that take their songs to the next level. Just like a great film, a four-minute video can really enhance the meaning and story of a song. And we know that vision is even more critical to a song that wants to communicate heartbreak, longing, and romance. These videos did just justice to their songs of origin by integrating narratives, scenes, and landscapes to create a story. In a sea of videos shot on soundstages, these stand out amongst the pack. Do you agree with my selections? Sound off in the comments section.
Lauryn Hill – Turn Your Lights Down Low
Director: Francis Lawrence
Hands down, this is the most perfect video I’ve seen in terms of how it heightened my appreciation for the song. Lauryn Hill’s reinterpretation of the original song by Bob Marley takes us to a beautiful and lush Jamaica. The colors, Rohan on a motorcyle, the close-ups of Lauryn pinning her hair, the intimate house party, and the next morning at the beach equals a perfect look at a beautiful 24 hours in a Caribbean town. Although the relationship with Rohan is not the focal point of the video, it is a beautiful backdrop. Who could forget them walking into the house party in utter darkness?
