Short answer: Best heavy metal music videos of the 80s include “Thriller” by Michael Jackson, “Jump” by Van Halen, and “Welcome to the Jungle” by Guns N’ Roses. These iconic videos featured impressive visuals, captivating cinematography, and innovative storytelling techniques that continue to inspire musicians today.
Step by Step: How to Create a Classic Heavy Metal Music Video of the 80s
When it comes to heavy metal, the music scene of the 80s was legendary. From iconic bands like Metallica and Iron Maiden to all the long hair, leather and spandex, everything about this era had a certain charm that still captures our imagination today. One thing that truly set the era apart from others was its classic heavy metal music videos – nothing can compare to those over-the-top visuals of skull-headed motorcycles, smoke machines and flamethrowers! If you’re a musician who loves this era’s style and looking to create your own classic heavy metal music video – this step by step guide can help.
Step 1: Find Your Concept
Before anything else, start by brainstorming some ideas for your video. The concept is important because it sets the tone for everything else. For instance, do you envision something dystopian? Or how about a medieval-inspired scenario with knights riding through fields? Whatever idea you choose must be in line with the song’s lyrics!
Step 2: Gather Your Gear
Now that you have your concept ready, gather all your gear including cameras as well as any props or costumes that will help embellish your video with iconic 80s style – leather jackets, bandanas, ammo belts etc.
Step 3: Choose an Location
Your location should somehow represent what’s occurring in the storyline of your shoot; a warehouse works great if dressed up slightly. However if you want an outdoor feel try finding local industrial areas or abandoned buildings which fit closely into what’s being conveyed in terms of visuals.
Step 4: Assemble The Band
This one goes without saying – assemble your bandmates together just as they were going on stage during live shows of those rock sequences played out in stadiums across America; gazing at each other with intensity while screaming their lungs out (with guitars preferably).
5: Plan Your Shots
Using storyboards or simply scribbling notes on paper can be a huge advantage – this lets you map out how each scene should look. For instance, if you’re planning to have a burning car in one shot, you’ll need to specify exactly where it’s going and how many people are present during filming.
6: Set Up Equipment & Lighting
It’s time now to start setting up the lighting and equipment for shots. Once again the goal is to bring some kind of theatricality into the shoot with dramatic back-lighting, intense shadows, and ideally colored gels for added effect.
7: Roll The Cameras!
Finally camera day arrives! Time for action – everything must roll smoothly so that each take can be done with perfection. Lead vocalists are given intense close ups meanwhile guitarists flail their instruments around (with occasional pyrotechnic bursts in the background).
8: Edit The Footage
Once all footage has been captured, edit it all together with slick transitions adding graphic overlays reminiscent of those classic MTV style ’80s music videos.
And there you have it! After following these steps now hopefully your own classic heavy metal music video will feel like an 80s throwback…except this time coming straight from you! It may seem daunting to create but once completed and shared with friends or online audiences alike they will hold nothing back in expressing their wild enthusiasm.
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About the Best Heavy Metal Music Videos of the 80s
The 80s were an epic time for heavy metal music! From the iconic metal bands like Guns N’ Roses and Metallica, to the high energy and in-your-face music videos that accompanied them, this era was definitely one for the ages.
But which heavy metal music videos of the 80s were the best? What made them stand out from all the others? We’ve compiled answers to some of your most pressing questions about these legendary videos. So let’s get started!
Q: Which heavy metal band had the best music videos in the 80s?
A: This is a tough one, as so many bands put out amazing videos during this time. However, Guns N’ Roses has to take home the prize. Their “Welcome To The Jungle” video is an icon of both rock n roll excess and MTV’s golden age. Plus, their “November Rain” video is one of the most emotional and dramatic music videos ever created.
Q: What is it about heavy metal music that lends itself so well to compelling music videos?
A: There’s something about metal that just begs to be visualized in grandiose ways – perhaps it’s because so much of it is inspired by mythos or horror aesthetics. The sheer power and theatricality of heavy metal makes for great viewing and oftentimes musicians rose to this challenge with over-the-top artistic visualizations accompanying their masterful guitar riffs.
Q: Were budgets for making these music videos astronomical?
A: For many bands, yes! Think about W.A.S.P.’s infamous “Animal (F**k Like A Beast)” video—a bare-chested Blackie Lawless writhing around with machetes embedded into his boots certainly didn’t come cheap; neither did Iron Maiden’s “Run To The Hills,” complete with cowboys, Native Americans on horseback & quality war-paint! Big budget producers like Michael Bay cut their teeth on massive rock videos in this era, with Def Leppard’s “Rocket” reportedly costing over a million dollars for its wild sci-fi visuals.
Q: What are some other notable heavy metal music videos from the 80s?
A: Twisted Sister’s “We’re Not Gonna Take It” is a classic, and it also inspired countless imitators by showing that you don’t always need to be deadly serious when making a video. Judas Priest’s “Breaking The Law” was unforgettable thanks to Rob Halford zipping his Motorbike through security fences like they weren’t even there. Similarly, Dio wouldn’t do things by halves when it came to pyrotechnics and stagecraft (look no further than his eponymous band’s video for their hit single “Holy Diver”).
In conclusion, we can say that the best heavy metal music videos of the 80s were true masterpieces of artistry and talent; they captured the raw energy & passion of a generation as well as pushed the envelope both visually and creatively. These iconic pieces only add to the triumph that marked heavy metal music’s greatest decade.
The Top 5 Facts Behind the Making of These Epic Heavy Metal Music Videos
For heavy metal fans, the music is only one part of the equation – the visual element plays an equally important role in creating an immersive experience. Heavy metal music videos are known for their epic and sometimes bizarre imagery, ranging from apocalyptic landscapes to gory horror scenes. In this blog, we take a closer look at some of the top heavy metal music videos ever made and explore the fascinating facts behind their creation.
1. “Thriller” by Michael Jackson (1983)
Although not strictly a heavy metal video, “Thriller” became a cultural phenomenon upon its release in 1983 and helped popularize the concept of elaborate music videos. Directed by John Landis, “Thriller” featured Michael Jackson as a zombie leading a horde of undead dancers in a spooky dance routine. One little-known fact about the video is that it was originally planned as a shorter piece but grew in scope as Jackson saw how much effort and energy his team was putting into it. According to Landis, the original budget was around $100,000 but ended up costing over $500,000 due to various production mishaps and delays.
2. “November Rain” by Guns N’ Roses (1991)
Clocking in at almost nine minutes long, “November Rain” is one of Guns N’ Roses’ most iconic songs and videos. The video features frontman Axl Rose getting married to model Stephanie Seymour amidst grandiose scenes of churches and symphony orchestras playing on mountaintops. One fascinating fact about the making of the video is that it took over six months to film due to multiple set changes and climatic factors such as rainstorms disrupting outdoor shoots. Additionally, director Andy Morahan insisted on using real orchestras rather than synthesizers or pre-recorded tracks for authenticity.
3. “One” by Metallica (1989)
Based on Dalton Trumbo’s novel “Johnny Got His Gun,” “One” is one of Metallica’s most poignant and politically charged songs. The video features footage from the 1971 film adaptation of the novel, as well as new scenes shot specifically for the video. One little-known fact about the making of “One” is that it was director Bill Pope’s first time shooting a music video, having previously worked primarily in documentaries and commercials. Despite this relative inexperience, Pope managed to create a hauntingly powerful visual representation of Trumbo’s anti-war message.
4. “Raining Blood” by Slayer (1986)
Possibly one of the most iconic heavy metal videos of all time, “Raining Blood” perfectly captures Slayer’s ferocious energy and nihilistic ethos. The video shows Slayer performing in a darkened alleyway while blood pours down on them from above. One interesting detail about the making of “Raining Blood” is that the band had initially planned to shoot it outdoors but had to switch locations due to noise complaints from nearby businesses.
5. “Enter Sandman” by Metallica (1991)
Another classic Metallica video, “Enter Sandman” features images of creepy children and eerie dreamscapes that match perfectly with the song’s sinister lyrics. One fascinating fact about this video is that it was directed by Wayne Isham, who had previously worked with acts such as Madonna and Bon Jovi but was a novice at creating darker content like what Metallica wanted for their visuals. To get into the right headspace for directing such disturbing imagery, Isham reportedly listened to Nine Inch Nails’ album “The Downward Spiral” on repeat during breaks.
In conclusion, these are just a few examples of heavy metal videos that pushed boundaries and left lasting impressions on viewers. From massive budgets to last-minute changes during filming, each one tells its own unique story about what went into creating some truly epic visuals that remain celebrated today among fans old and new.
The Artistry and Creativity Behind the Best Heavy Metal Music Videos of the 80s
The 80s were a time of pure surrealism, where music was just as important as the visuals that accompanied it. A new generation was emerging, one that had grown up with MTV and its programming of music videos. This era saw some of the most imaginative and innovative artists creating epic masterpieces filled with stunning visuals.
Heavy metal bands in particular were known for their elaborate and often over-the-top videos. Bands like Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Metallica and Guns N’ Roses pushed the envelope in terms of production values, animation techniques, special effects, makeup and set design to create a spectacle that captured the essence of their sound.
So why did heavy metal bands put so much effort into their music videos in the 80s?
Firstly, heavy metal is all about theatrics – larger-than-life personas, dark themes and blazing guitar solos are all staples of this genre. By producing visuals that matched the ferocity of their music (think: fire breathing dragons or smoking guitars), these bands could transport viewers into another dimension entirely.
Secondly, when MTV first started airing music videos on television back in 1981, this marked an opportunity for acts to reach audiences beyond just radio play,, opening up potential new markets internationally.
Finally there’s no doubting how powerful imagery can be – if done well it creates a lasting connection between listener and artist; playing its part in building fandoms akin to cult followings within youth subcultures across America and Europe alike.
So which are some of standout examples from those golden era years?
Iron Maiden’s “The Number of The Beast” video saw them depicting what appeared to be a satanic ritual – complete with aleister crowley references throughout… Just what every good parent would have wanted!
Metallica’s iconic ‘One’ video stands out not only because it’s an anti-war protest song but also due to its groundbreaking use clips from Dalio Medusa’s award-winning 1971 experimental film, “Johnny Got His Gun”
Or Guns N’ Roses ‘Paradise City’, one of the most epic concert videos created in the era.
Regardless of which video you look at it is clear that they all had a defining moment within not only heavy metal but also music video history.
Even if for some reason you’re not a heavy metal fan, take advantage of the innovations these bands produced over the years: Inspire and push creativity so the next generation can keep up with what was once cutting edge; afterall – everything new is always gonna be old someday.
Why These Heavy Metal Bands Were Kings of The MTV Era with Their Iconic Music Videos
There’s no denying the impact that MTV had on pop culture in the 1980s and early 1990s. It brought music videos to the forefront of entertainment, and heavy metal bands were some of the kings of this era.
One of the most iconic metal bands of this time was Guns N’ Roses, whose music videos were as epic as their songs. From “Welcome to the Jungle” to “November Rain,” these videos told stories and added a deeper layer to the already powerful music. They were edgy and raw, matching perfectly with Axl Rose’s unique voice.
Another band that ruled during this time was Metallica. Their video for “One” is often cited as one of the greatest music videos ever made, featuring footage from the classic anti-war film Johnny Got His Gun. The band’s aggressive sound matched with their visually stunning music videos created an unparalleled experience for viewers.
And who could forget Motley Crue? These rockers took MTV by storm with their outrageous antics both on stage and off. Their videos featured everything from pyrotechnics to scantily-clad women, making them almost as famous for their visuals as they were for their music.
But it wasn’t just about shock value – many heavy metal bands used their music videos to tackle serious issues. Videos like Megadeth’s “Hangar 18” addressed government conspiracy theories while Ozzy Osbourne’s “Crazy Train” took a stand against conformity.
So why were heavy metal bands so successful during the MTV era? Perhaps it was because they offered something different from what mainstream pop artists were delivering at the time. Heavy metal gave viewers an escape into a more intense world, where they could let go of societal expectations and indulge in some rebellion.
In conclusion, heavy metal bands dominated MTV during their peak era not only because of their powerful sound but also because of their visually stunning and thought-provoking music videos. They offered a refreshing alternative to the mainstream and provided an escape for viewers who were hungry for something deeper and more intense. These bands left an indelible mark on the era, making them true kings of the MTV generation.
Looking Back: A Retrospective Analysis on The Best Heavy Metal Music Videos Contributions to The Genre’s Legacy
Heavy metal is more than just a genre of music. It’s a lifestyle, a culture, and has become a cornerstone of society for thousands of people around the world. And what’s an integral part of any musical genre you ask? Music videos.
Over the years, heavy metal has produced some truly iconic music videos which have left an indelible impression on its fan base. In this retrospective analysis, we will take a look at some of the best heavy metal music videos that have contributed to its legacy.
First on our list is undoubtedly Michael Jackson’s “Thriller.” Yes, you read that right! While it may not be a traditional heavy metal song or video, it was directed by none other than John Landis who was responsible for iconic videos like “Bark at the Moon” by Ozzy Osbourne and “Here I Go Again” by Whitesnake. The horror-inspired video not only revolutionized the music video industry but also handily spliced cinematic storytelling with mainstream music in an unprecedented way. By doing so, it emphasized the importance of visuals to portray emotions and narratives in popular media across all mediums. Heavy Metal took note and we began seeing increasingly imaginative visual representation feeding from horror movies such as Alice Cooper’s iconically terrifying stage performances – paving the way for talented creatives who devoted their lives to coming up with new iterations of stunning visuals almost exclusively designed around heavy-metal chords.
Next up is Guns N’ Roses’ “November Rain.” This epic ballad features Axl Rose sporting his signature wavy hairdo while performing with Slash captivatingly delivering his guitar riffs through physically demanding solos –each taking us on an emotional journey through one storyline after another within its 9-minute duration!
With extravagant backdrops featuring Rainbeau Mars artfully horsing off horses in slow-motion sequences and wedding ceremonies scattered throughout (concluding with Rose alone atop what seems like Mexico’s Dunas De Maspalomas) – the video’s seamless transitioning between its different settings with such magnificence perfectly embodying the spirit of every metal song: rebellion.
Moving on to Judas Priest’s “Breaking the Law,” known for setting a high standard in heavy-metal commercialization. This music video features the band members driving through city streets on motorbikes while being chased by police cars, jumping off boat ramps trying to escape authorities; perhaps unintentionally creating an enduring meme of “bad boys” causing general shenanigans by simply revving up their engines (Judas Priest included). It was actually an incredible feat at the time and established itself as one of the most iconic videos in heavy-metal history.
Of course, we cannot finish this analysis without mentioning Metallica’s “One,” which is often revered as arguably being photogenic due to combining ethereal visuals with bone-chilling metal solos. This music video shows a heartbreaking story set amidst war-time fighting and images of ultimate demise that has become synonymous with Metallica for good reason—a profound sound all their own delivering musicianship in fantastic form forever etching songs like ‘Say Hell’ or ‘Vulgar Display of Power’ as indelibly ingrained in our memories.
In conclusion, heavy-metal music videos have undoubtedly contributed significantly to the genre’s legacy. From redefining and pushing boundaries within production technology to storytelling using ever-changing aesthetics -capturing each song’s poetic abstraction- it has become impossible not to appreciate these art forms’ nuances-even when you don’t indulge in the full potency of its ear-splitting sounds! In recent times, creative illustrators continue producing amazing near movie-level animations fused almost symbiotically with powerful instrumental tracks; attesting we’ll keep getting fresh interpretations expanding and excitingly keeping genuine creativity alive.
Table with useful data:
| Rank | Title | Band | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thriller | Michael Jackson | 1983 |
| 2 | Sweet Child O’ Mine | Guns N’ Roses | 1987 |
| 3 | One | Metallica | 1989 |
| 4 | Paradise City | Guns N’ Roses | 1988 |
| 5 | Enter Sandman | Metallica | 1991 |
| 6 | Walk This Way | Aerosmith ft. Run DMC | 1986 |
| 7 | Hallowed Be Thy Name | Iron Maiden | 1982 |
| 8 | It’s So Easy | Guns N’ Roses | 1987 |
| 9 | Panama | Van Halen | 1984 |
| 10 | Raise Your Fist and Yell | Alice Cooper | 1987 |
Information from an expert: As an authority on heavy metal music videos of the 80s, I can confidently say that the best ones showcase a raw energy, intricate imagery, and edgy appeal that defined the era. From Judas Priest’s “Breaking the Law” to Metallica’s “One,” and Iron Maiden’s “Flight of Icarus,” these videos captured the essence of hard-rocking music within a visual medium. With innovative camera work, captivating special effects, and dramatic storytelling techniques, these music videos became legendary and set new standards for future generations to follow. These are some of the must-watch pieces that any heavy metal fan should not miss!
Historical fact:
Despite initial controversy and resistance from mainstream media, heavy metal music videos became a popular and innovative form of expression in the 1980s, with iconic videos such as “Thriller” by Michael Jackson, “Enter Sandman” by Metallica, and “Sweet Child O’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses setting the bar high for future generations of music video production.