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Since the release of the Buggles song “Video Killed the Radio Star” and the introduction of the music video station MTV in the early 80’s, music videos have progressed into a predominate part of our culture. Every generation has had its video icons. These icons have used the music video to convey messages to their viewers. Messages sent through music videos have included everything from what to wear, how to act, and who to vote for. With such an influence and with ever increasing availability, it is important that viewers become media literate in order to critically question what messages are being sent through videos to them. We have chosen fifteen popular videos that are on current, consistent rotation on music video stations. We have summarized them and added in critical questions to consider for visitors to this blog to answer. We have also linked the videos to this site. You can access each video by clicking on the picture of the artist that is found beside the title of the video.

Friday, March 30, 2007


My Chemical Romance- "Famous Last Words"
The video Famous Last Words opens with what is indicative of a ‘set’. As the video unravels, the ‘set’ becomes the setting for a battle field or war zone. The singer and band members are in uniform which further strengthen the notion of war zone. The video is filled with fire and explosions which create an intense dramatic environment. The video displays the members of the group signing through turmoil, exhaustion, and mayhem. The lead singer always is able to overcome the circumstances and continue with the delivery of his message (“I am not afraid to keep on living, I am not afraid to walk this world alone”).
Questions to Consider:
What emotions does this video evoke?
What message does this video portray regarding life?
Does this video make you reflect on a period of time in your own life? Why?
What does the setting of this video represent?

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