10 of the Most Expensive Music Videos By Black Artists
Discover the most expensive music videos in Black music history, showcasing creativity, artistry, and cultural significance behind these iconic productions.
In music, particularly in the 80s and 90s, music videos were essential for storytelling and captivating the audience. Music videos have progressed from basic performance footage to intricate showcases that can come with a price tag in the millions. Today we'll explore the priciest music videos by Black artists. To no one's surprise Michael Jackson makes the most entries on the list.
1. Scream - Michael Jackson & Janet Jackson
Price tag: $7 million (roughly $13.9 million today).
The collaboration between Michael and Janet Jackson in this legendary video stands as a significant milestone in the realm of music videos. With captivating visuals showcasing choreography and a strong message addressing media scrutiny it's more than a mere video; it's a bold declaration.
2. Black or White - Michael Jackson
Price Tag: $4 million (roughly $8.9 million today)
This video was revolutionary for its use of morphing technology to portray racial harmony. Directed by John Landis it boasted a star studded cast and a standout performance that solidified Michael's reputation as a pop sensation. The extended cut of the video, often overlooked, was controversial at the time.
3. Remember the Time - Michael Jackson
Price tag $2 million (roughly $4.34 million today)
The video, helmed by John Singleton showcases a lineup of celebrities like Eddie Murphy and Iman. With its backdrop of ancient Egypt, it weaves together storytelling and mesmerizing dance sequences, earning its place as a beloved choice among us.
4. Bad - Michael Jackson
Price tag: $2 million (roughly $5.9 million today)
This video, directed by Martin Scorsese tells a story of street culture and defiance highlighting Michaels growth as a performer. The dance routines and imagery are memorable showcasing the era and pushing the boundaries of video artistry.
5. Doesn't Really Matter - Janet Jackson
Price tag: $2.5 million (roughly $4.6 million today)
The video showcases impressive visuals and dance routines, all set in a futuristic environment. Janet's stage presence is enchanting and the video played a role, in promoting the movie Nutty Professor II: The Klumps.
6. Heartbreaker - Mariah Carey
Price: $2.5 million (equivalent to about $4.6 million today)
In this video we are introduced to Mariah's alter ego, Bianca. Featuring top notch production quality it captures the blend of playfulness and allure that defines Mariah's music style.
7. Honey - Mariah Carey
Price tag: $2 million (roughly equivalent to $3.79 million today).
In the video Mariah breaks away from her history displaying her self assurance and fresh musical style. The visuals are lively Mariah busts a move all while marking an important shift in her music and life journey.
8. What's It Gonna Be?! - Busta Rhymes featuring Janet Jackson
Price: $2.4 million (around $4.4 million today)
This captivating video showcases cutting edge visuals showcasing the dynamic between Busta and Janet. It serves as a tribute to the artistic flair that characterizes both performers.
9. 2 Legit 2 Quit - MC Hammer
Price tag: $2.5 million (roughly $5.3 million today)
Although it didn't age well this video was a grand project that highlighted Hammer's unique dance moves and charisma cementing his spot in the annals of music history.
10. Victory - Puff Daddy featuring The Notorious B.I.G. & Busta Rhymes
Price tag $2.7 million (roughly $5 million today)
The video showcases a lavish production and stunning visuals. However despite its budget it failed to make a lasting impact, with many of our listeners not even remembering the video. It reflects Puff's desire to leave a mark in the industry.
The significance of these videos extends, beyond their worth. They serve as landmarks in history highlighting the skills and imagination of Black music makers. While we appreciate these works of art we acknowledge their influence on the history of music videos.