Ah, the MTV era! A time when music videos were more than just a few flashy clips thrown together; they were art forms, cultural touchstones, and sometimes, downright iconic. If you grew up in the ’80s and ’90s, you probably remember sitting in front of the TV, waiting for your favorite video to come on, or maybe even dancing along to your favorite jams with friends. Some of those videos have aged like fine wine—or maybe more like a fine cheese that you forgot in the back of the fridge. But surprisingly, there are a handful that still hold up today, both in terms of visuals and relevance. Let’s take a stroll down memory lane and revisit eight music videos that prove their worth even decades later.
1. “Thriller” by Michael Jackson
Let’s kick things off with the king of pop himself. “Thriller” isn’t just a music video; it’s a mini-movie. With its groundbreaking choreography and special effects, it set the gold standard for everything that followed. Plus, who doesn’t love a good zombie dance party? It’s still a Halloween staple, and the iconic dance scene is so good that it’ll leave you busting moves in your living room (even if your cat judges you).
2. “Like a Prayer” by Madonna
Madonna has always pushed boundaries, and “Like a Prayer” is no exception. The video stirred up quite the controversy back in the day with its religious imagery and social commentary. But let’s be real: it’s a bold piece of art that still resonates today. The striking visuals and emotional depth remind us that music can spark conversations, even if they’re a bit uncomfortable. And hey, who hasn’t cranked this one up while belting out the chorus in the shower?
3. “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana
Ah, the anthem of a generation. Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit” captured the angst of the ’90s youth, and the video? Pure chaos in the best way possible. With its raw energy and grunge aesthetic, it’s like a time capsule of teenage rebellion. Even now, it feels as fresh as that first sip of coffee in the morning. You can practically hear the flannel shirts and smell the teen angst. It’s a vibe that resonates across generations.
4. “Bitter Sweet Symphony” by The Verve
This one’s for the dreamers. The video for “Bitter Sweet Symphony” features Richard Ashcroft strolling down a busy street, seemingly oblivious to the chaos around him. It’s a beautiful metaphor for life’s struggles versus the pursuit of happiness. The orchestral backing and Ashcroft’s haunting vocals are just as captivating today as they were when it first dropped. Plus, it’s a great reminder that sometimes, you just have to keep walking through life, no matter what. Bonus points if you’ve tried to recreate that walk—it’s a fun challenge!
5. “Vogue” by Madonna
Yep, Madonna makes the list again because, well, she’s Madonna. “Vogue” is all about glam, fashion, and the art of self-expression. The choreography and cinematic flair are still influential, inspiring countless dance routines since its release. Whenever this song plays, you can’t help but want to strike a pose (or two). It’s a reminder that dance and music can be a celebration of individuality and creativity—what’s not to love about that?
6. “Waterfalls” by TLC
TLC’s “Waterfalls” tackled tough issues like drug addiction and unsafe sex with grace and emotional storytelling. The video’s narrative style and poignant message still resonate today, making it more than just a catchy tune. It’s a powerful reminder of the importance of making safe choices, wrapped in a beautiful melody. If you’re looking for a song that combines great music with a meaningful message, look no further. Plus, it’s hard not to sing along when that chorus hits!
7. “Take On Me” by A-ha
This is the epitome of ’80s synth-pop, and the video is a visual masterpiece. With its unique mix of live-action and pencil-sketch animation, “Take On Me” has a whimsical charm that still captivates viewers today. The catchy hook is practically impossible to get out of your head (you’ve probably hummed it at least once this week).
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