Conventions Of A Rock Video

As I am going to be creating a music video, I decided to analyse 5 music videos (all of which differed in genre) and listed the conventions of that genre. The first one was ROCK. The artist I picked was 'Kings of Leon'.

Below are the 5 music videos I watched and analysed.

In 'Use Somebody', the setting of the video is quite morose. The lyrics and music video contrast well together. 

In 'Sex on Fire', there is a sense of demonic possession with the lead singer, almost as if he is addicted to his lover. The environment, lighting and extreme close ups create a tense yet dramatic scene. 

In 'Pyro', there are hardly any camera shots of the band, as it focuses mostly upon the narrative. The slow motion camera shots showcase the victims of each situation ultimately 'reaching the light'.

In 'Radioactive', a much more happier environment is created with scenes of the band members enjoying a good time with young children. 

In 'Back down south', the band is shown performing in the deep south (where they are originally from).


Overall, by looking at these videos, it is clear that rock videos have a set of conventions that are more or less followed. However, it is arguable that Kings of Leon portray a much more emotionally deep side to rock music, singing and using narrative's in their videos to convey a certain message. Below are a life of conventions used in a rock music video.

• Usually many camera shots of a 'frontman' - usually the lead singer
• Grungy environment
• Camera shots of band performing 
• The band is usually seen as a 'unit'
• Fast paced editing in order to engage the audience
• Many close ups
• Usually male orientated 
• 'Rockstar' life is made apparent
• Narrative
• Montages of concerts