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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


Pussycat Dolls- "Wait a Minute"
The music video “Wait a Minute” portrays the fact that women don’t always have to succumb to the desires of a man. The women in this video join together to take a stand and display their strength as individuals. The man in the video (also a singer) continues to pursue the females but is unsuccessful in his efforts. As the video continues, the women end up actually taunting the man with their bodies. The dancing, provocative clothing, and the suggestive moves all work to reinforce the notion that the man is unable to pursue.
Questions to Consider:
What message do you think this video is sending to girls and women?
What message is being portrayed at the very end of the video?
What message is being sent to males?

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