9 Iconic Music Video Moments You Must See: Curated by Karena Evans

The 9 Most Visually Stunning Music Videos of the last Decade

Los Angeles, CA – Music videos have evolved beyond simple promotional tools, becoming miniature works of art in their own right. Over the past decade, artists have consistently pushed creative boundaries, delivering visuals that are as captivating as the music itself. HereS a rundown of nine music videos that have left a lasting impression, blending artistry, storytelling, and sheer visual brilliance.

1. “This Is America” – Childish Gambino (2018)

Donald Glover’s “This Is america” wasn’t just a video; it was a cultural moment. Its shocking imagery and powerful symbolism sparked immediate conversation about gun violence, race, and entertainment in the United States. The single-take format and Glover’s dynamic performance amplified the video’s impact, solidifying its place in music video history.

2. “Formation” – Beyoncé (2016)

Beyoncé’s “formation” is a festivity of Black culture and Southern heritage.Filmed in New Orleans, the video features striking imagery of Black womanhood, police brutality, and resilience. Its unapologetic message and powerful visuals made it an instant anthem and a landmark achievement in visual storytelling.

3. “In My Feelings” – Drake (2018)

Drake’s playful take on a Southern aesthetic, complete wiht gold fronts, injected humor into the music video landscape. featuring La La Anthony and Phylicia Rashad, the video’s comedic timing and memorable choreography sparked a viral dance challenge, demonstrating the power of music videos to influence pop culture.

4. “D’Evils” – SiR (2018)

SiR’s “D’Evils” transported viewers to the idyllic shores of Jamaica. The video’s laid-back vibe and romantic narrative culminated in a breathtakingly intimate waterfall scene,showcasing the power of visual storytelling to evoke emotion and create a sense of escapism.

5. “Garden (Say it Like Dat)” – SZA (2018)

SZA’s “Garden” is a dreamy exploration of love and desire, brought to life by the captivating chemistry between SZA and Donald glover. Set in a fantastical landscape, the video’s warm tones and whimsical imagery create a truly immersive experience.

6. “Tap Out” – Jay Rock feat. Jeremih (2018)

Jay Rock and Jeremih’s “Tap Out” showcased innovative visual techniques. The use of white-painted sets to seamlessly transition between scenes – a grocery store, a movie theater, and a vibrant beach – demonstrated a creative approach to set design and visual storytelling.

7. “everyday Life” – Coldplay (2019)

Coldplay’s “Everyday Life” is a poignant exploration of human connection across cultures.The video’s intimate and expansive scenes, culminating in a stunning performance with a massive wooden piano on a shoreline, underscored the band’s message of unity and empathy.

8. “Have Mercy” – Chlöe (2021)

Chlöe’s solo debut with “Have Mercy” was a bold statement. The video’s vibrant colors, intricate choreography, and notable cameos – including Ms. Tina Knowles – established Chlöe as a force to be reckoned with. The video’s most memorable moment, Chlöe licking the face of a stone statue, cemented its status as a visually daring and unforgettable piece.

9. “Luther” – kendrick Lamar feat.SZA (2018)

Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s “Luther” is a masterclass in mood and atmosphere.The video’s warm, nostalgic vibe, enhanced by the inclusion of the original Luther Vandross sample, “If This World Were Mine,” created a sense of intimacy and romance. The soft, tender moments shared between Kendrick and SZA with their partners resonated deeply with viewers.

Evergreen Insights:

These videos represent a shift in how artists approach visual content. They’re no longer simply promotional tools but extensions of the artistic vision, offering commentary, sparking dialog, and creating lasting cultural impact. The use of symbolism, innovative techniques, and compelling narratives has become increasingly prevalent, demonstrating the power of music videos to transcend entertainment and become genuine art forms. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more groundbreaking and visually stunning music videos to emerge, further blurring the lines between music, film, and art.

How did Karena Evans challenge conventional music video aesthetics with Drake’s “Hotline Bling”?

Beyoncé – “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)” (2008) – The Power of Simplicity

This video, directed by Karena Evans, isn’t about elaborate sets or complex narratives. It’s about movement. The black and white aesthetic, the minimalist background, and the incredibly sharp, synchronized choreography became instantly iconic.

Key Takeaway: Demonstrates how powerful impactful choreography and a strong visual concept can be, even with limited resources. It sparked countless parodies and remains a cultural touchstone for female empowerment and dance trends.

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Drake – “Hotline Bling” (2015) – Redefining Visuals & Mood

Karena Evans’ direction for Drake’s “Hotline Bling” is a masterclass in creating a mood. The video’s simple premise – Drake casually hanging out in a brightly lit, almost sterile space – became instantly meme-able and endlessly re-created.

Why it effectively works: The color palette, the slow-motion shots, and Drake’s understated performance all contribute to a feeling of loneliness and longing. It’s a perfect example of how visuals can amplify the emotional impact of a song.

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SZA – “The Weekend” (2017) – Storytelling Through Visuals

“The Weekend” isn’t just a music video; it’s a short film. Evans expertly portrays the complexities of a relationship where boundaries are blurred. The video’s narrative structure, coupled with SZA’s captivating performance, makes it a truly unforgettable visual experience.

Narrative Focus: The video explores themes of desire, commitment, and the challenges of modern relationships.

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Childish Gambino – “This Is America” (2018) – A Powerful Statement

While directed by Hiro Murai,Evans served as a producer on this groundbreaking video. “This Is America” is a visceral and unflinching commentary on gun violence, racism, and the entertainment industry in the United States.

Impact & Controversy: The video sparked a global conversation about its powerful imagery and its message. It’s a prime example of how music videos can be used as a platform for social and political commentary.

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Normani – “Motivation” (2019) – Homage to the Queens of Pop

Normani’s “Motivation” is a love letter to the iconic music videos of the 90s and early 2000s, particularly those of Britney Spears and Beyoncé. Evans’ direction pays homage to these classics while concurrently establishing Normani as a star in her own right.

Visual References: The video is packed with references to iconic moments from pop music history,including scenes inspired by “…Baby One More Time” and “Crazy in Love.”

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Rihanna – “Work” (2016) – Intimacy and Raw Energy

Directed by Tim Fetherston, with Karena Evans as a producer, “Work” offers a raw and intimate glimpse into Rihanna’s world. The video’s grainy aesthetic and natural lighting create a sense of authenticity and immediacy.

Production Style: The video’s handheld camera work and unpolished editing style contribute to its intimate and energetic feel.

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Cardi B – “WAP” (feat. Megan Thee Stallion) (2020) – Boldness and Empowerment

This video,directed by Colin Tilley with Karena evans as a producer,was a cultural moment. “WAP” is unapologetically explicit and celebrates female sexuality. It sparked both controversy and praise for its boldness and empowerment.

Cultural Impact: The video broke streaming records and generated a massive amount of social media buzz.

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Summer Walker – “Playing Games” (2019) – vulnerability and Realism

karena Evans’ direction for Summer Walker’s “Playing Games” captures the vulnerability and emotional complexity of a relationship. The video’s intimate setting and naturalistic performances create a sense of realism.

Emotional Resonance: The video’s focus on emotional honesty and vulnerability resonated with audiences.

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