Top Music Videos: 70s, 80s & 90s English Hits

Oct 29, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 46 views

Hey music lovers! Ready for a trip down memory lane? Let's dive into the amazing world of English music videos from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. This was a golden era for music, filled with iconic tracks, killer fashion, and visuals that still hold up today. We're talking about the classics, the anthems, the songs that defined generations. Get ready to rediscover some absolute bangers and maybe even find some new favorites. This article is your ultimate guide to the best music videos from these incredible decades. Let's get this party started!

The Groovy 70s: Disco, Rock, and the Birth of the Music Video

Alright, let's rewind to the fabulous 70s. This decade was a melting pot of musical styles, from the glitter and glamour of disco to the raw energy of punk rock, and the stadium-filling power of classic rock. This was also the time when music videos were just starting to take off, evolving from simple performance clips to early artistic expressions. You could find them on shows like Top of the Pops or other programs of the time. The 70s were an era of experimentation, and you can see it in the music videos. From the outrageous fashion to the groundbreaking concepts, the music videos of the 70s were setting the stage for the MTV generation. Iconic bands and artists like Queen, David Bowie, and ABBA were pushing creative boundaries, producing visuals that were as memorable as their songs. Many videos from this time are considered primitive by today’s standards, but this is the beauty of it: simplicity is sometimes better. The birth of this type of video was due to the evolution of the music in general. The introduction of disco brought with it a revolution in music, as did the introduction of punk. Both movements gave birth to an industry that would change the world of music forever. The 70s were the cradle of music video. We're talking about legendary videos with unforgettable melodies and unique aesthetic styles that, even though they may seem dated, still captivate. Who doesn't remember the flashy lights, the vibrant colors, and the dance moves that defined a generation? Remember that for many people, the visual was just a complement, the important thing was the music. But it was a new beginning in the world of art and entertainment. The music videos of the 70s laid the foundation for the visual language we still use today. Get ready to groove to those unforgettable tunes and remember the early days of music videos. The 70s were a time of experimentation and pushing boundaries, and the music videos of the era reflect that spirit. So, let’s explore the visual treasures of this musical golden age and celebrate the artists who dared to innovate and inspire.

Notable 70s Music Videos

Bohemian Rhapsody - Queen (1975): Arguably one of the most iconic music videos of all time. This visual masterpiece perfectly complements the song's theatrical flair. The video is simple but impactful, using innovative special effects for its time and featuring the band members in their now-famous poses. This video has influenced countless artists and is still watched and loved by millions around the world. It is the epitome of the 70s music video, and it is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of music videos. The success of this video changed the way music videos were made and how they were perceived by the public. It proved that a music video could be more than just a promotional tool; it could be a work of art in itself. Without this video, music videos wouldn't be what they are today. The song is one of the most famous in history and is still heard all over the world, but it is not the only song of the decade that transcended the decades. Many other songs from the 70s continue to be heard and loved, and their music videos continue to be watched. The importance of this song in the history of music is undeniable, as is its influence on later music videos. Every shot, every frame, every detail of the video is perfectly orchestrated to complement the song's energy and narrative.
Video Killed the Radio Star - The Buggles (1979): Often credited as the first video to air on MTV, this video marks the beginning of a new era. With its futuristic theme and catchy tune, it's a perfect encapsulation of the shift towards the visual medium. The song itself is a reflection on the changing music industry, as the video becomes the new star. The production of this video was a revolution in the way music was consumed and promoted. It was an instant hit, and it helped launch the careers of the band members. From then on, every music channel around the world would begin to open its doors to a world of endless music videos. The video is a time capsule of the late 70s, with its synth sounds and futuristic aesthetics. The simplicity of the video made it even more impactful, and it paved the way for the success of MTV. The song and the video together marked a turning point in music history, and it is a testament to the power of innovation in the entertainment industry.
Stayin' Alive - The Bee Gees (1977): This music video captures the essence of the disco era. The group's stylish outfits and the dance moves, perfectly in sync with the song's rhythm, make this video a disco dance class. The video is a celebration of the disco culture. The iconic video is as vibrant as the song itself, and it has become synonymous with the disco fever of the 70s. The song, along with the film Saturday Night Fever, was a global phenomenon, and the music video helped to popularize the song and the Bee Gees' image. The video features the Bee Gees in their prime, and it is a must-see for any fan of disco music. It also provided a glimpse into the fashion trends of the time, and it influenced a whole generation. The song continues to be played on dance floors worldwide and is still considered a disco classic. The dance moves, the outfits, and the music create an atmosphere of celebration and joy, and it continues to inspire people around the world.

The Awesome 80s: Synthesizers, Hair Bands, and MTV Takes Over

Fast forward to the electrifying 80s, and the music video landscape exploded! MTV launched in 1981, and boom, the world changed forever. Suddenly, music videos weren't just a promotional tool; they were a cultural phenomenon. This was the era of big hair, neon colors, and synthesizers. The 80s were about embracing the visual. Music videos became bolder, more creative, and more ambitious. Bands like Michael Jackson, Madonna, and Prince raised the bar with high-budget productions and elaborate concepts. The 80s gave birth to a whole new art form. The music videos of the 80s were a fusion of music, fashion, and storytelling. It was also the era of hair bands. The genre, with its over-the-top personas and catchy guitar riffs, filled stadiums and defined the decade's aesthetic. The 80s were a decade of excess in every sense of the word, and the music videos perfectly reflected this. Every music video became a mini-movie, telling stories, creating worlds, and showcasing the artist's personality. The success of MTV and other music channels worldwide made music videos the most important way to promote music. Every music band would create unique videos, turning the music industry into a visual business. The result was a generation of unforgettable songs and music videos. This era also saw the rise of new technologies and effects, allowing directors and artists to create even more spectacular and ambitious visuals. So, get ready to revisit a time when music videos were an integral part of pop culture, shaping trends, and launching careers. It was a time of groundbreaking experimentation and undeniable impact. The best music videos from the 80s continue to be enjoyed by people around the world. The influence of the music videos of the 80s can still be felt in today’s music videos. Let's delve into the creative world of the 80s and celebrate the artists and directors who shaped this era.

Notable 80s Music Videos

Thriller - Michael Jackson (1983): Arguably the greatest music video of all time. This is more than a music video, it's a short film! With its iconic zombie choreography, groundbreaking special effects, and unforgettable storytelling, Thriller set the standard for music videos. This is what you call a masterpiece. The music video was directed by John Landis, and it became an instant sensation. The combination of music, dance, and horror elements made it a cultural phenomenon. It revolutionized the music video format, proving its potential as a visual storytelling medium. The video’s impact on popular culture is undeniable. The video's special effects were groundbreaking for the time. This music video transcended the boundaries of the medium, becoming a cultural event in itself. It’s a complete work of art that continues to be celebrated worldwide. The video's choreography, performed by Michael Jackson and a team of zombies, is legendary and has been imitated countless times. It set the standard for music videos and has influenced generations of artists. The video had a huge impact on the music industry, changing the way music videos were made and how they were perceived by the public. The success of the video also helped to solidify Michael Jackson's status as a global superstar, and it is still a significant part of popular culture.
Like a Virgin - Madonna (1984): This music video solidified Madonna's status as a global icon. This video is all about her image, and it perfectly captures Madonna's rebellious spirit and her talent for creating controversy. The song and the video were a massive success and helped to launch Madonna's career to unprecedented heights. It's a bold statement that defined a generation. It also had a big impact on fashion. The music video is full of symbolic references, and it is a testament to the power of a woman and her image. The song and the video created a sensation and caused a lot of discussion. The video generated a lot of controversy due to its use of suggestive imagery and its exploration of themes of sexuality and liberation. Madonna showed the world her willingness to push boundaries and challenge societal norms, and she became an icon for a new generation. The music video helped to cement Madonna's position as a global superstar and set the stage for her future creative endeavors. Her creativity and boldness continue to be an inspiration to many. It is a visual representation of the song's themes of liberation and self-discovery, and it continues to inspire people around the world.
Take On Me - a-ha (1985): With its innovative rotoscoping animation, this video is a visual marvel. The blend of live-action and pencil-sketch animation was groundbreaking, creating a unique and captivating visual experience. The music video created a unique world in which music and art are combined. The animation technique was revolutionary for its time, and the video became a huge success. The music video had a profound impact on the music industry, and it demonstrated the power of visual creativity. It is a testament to the power of creativity and the endless possibilities of music videos. The result is a video that is both artistic and memorable, and it has been praised for its originality and its creative approach. The video has been widely recognized as one of the most innovative and influential music videos ever made, and it continues to be celebrated today.

The Grunge-Filled 90s: Rebellion, Reality, and a New Visual Aesthetic

Finally, let's fast forward to the rebellious 90s. This decade saw a shift from the polished aesthetics of the 80s to a more raw, authentic feel. Grunge music exploded onto the scene, bringing with it a more introspective and gritty visual style. The 90s also witnessed the rise of alternative rock, hip-hop, and pop music, each with its distinctive visual identity. The music videos of the 90s were often characterized by a sense of realism, with less emphasis on the flashy effects of the 80s and more on storytelling and artistic expression. The music videos of the 90s were also marked by a shift towards a more DIY aesthetic, which created a fresh sense of visual freedom. The influence of the music video became an even bigger part of popular culture. The music video became an essential element in the artist's brand and an important component of the song's marketing. The result was a generation of influential music videos that have left a lasting impact on popular culture. Music videos were used to promote many social issues. In the 90s, the video was used not only to advertise the music, but also to promote social and political messages. So, get ready to explore a decade of musical and visual innovation. The artists and directors of the 90s challenged the norms of the industry. The 90s gave rise to music videos that continue to be loved and celebrated today. Let's explore the visual treasures of this musical golden age and remember the artists who shaped the musical landscape of the 90s.

Notable 90s Music Videos

Smells Like Teen Spirit - Nirvana (1991): This video is the anthem of a generation. It perfectly captures the rebellious spirit of grunge music. It's raw, energetic, and perfectly embodies the angst of the era. The video is a visual representation of the grunge movement. It's a must-watch for any fan of the 90s music scene. The song and the video together perfectly encapsulated the anti-establishment sentiment of the time. The video has become an iconic representation of the 90s. The song became an instant hit. The video's simple but powerful aesthetic, with its low-budget feel and chaotic energy, perfectly reflects the band's ethos. The video’s impact on music videos and popular culture is undeniable. The video became an anthem for the disaffected youth of the time. The band's performance, the energy, and the visual style were so impactful that they have had a lasting impact on popular culture. The song’s popularity grew even more as a result of the music video, and it helped to cement Nirvana’s place in music history. The video is a testament to the band’s raw energy and their desire to break free from the traditional constraints of the music industry. The song's popularity was due to the impact of the video. The song's lyrics were easy to identify with for a lot of people. The combination of the song and the video made them the heroes of the time.
Vogue - Madonna (1990): This video is a celebration of dance, fashion, and self-expression. It perfectly embodies Madonna's ability to create a visually stunning and culturally significant work. This video is all about the art of voguing, and it is a vibrant tribute to the ballroom culture. The video pays homage to the world of fashion, the celebration of individuality, and the power of dance. The video's black and white aesthetic and stylish imagery were groundbreaking for the time. The video’s impact on popular culture is undeniable, and it helped to popularize voguing and introduce the dance form to a wider audience. The video made voguing famous, and it is a testament to Madonna's ability to create works that are both visually and culturally significant. The video inspired a whole generation of dancers and artists, and it continues to be celebrated today for its artistic and cultural significance. The music video is a celebration of self-expression, and it is an inspiration to people around the world. The video is a tribute to the power of art, music, and dance.
Jeremy - Pearl Jam (1991): This video is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of a young boy's struggles. It is a compelling visual narrative that addresses serious issues. The video is a moving and impactful work. The video's story of teenage angst and alienation struck a chord with viewers, and it generated a lot of discussion about the social issues of the time. The song and the video together became a cultural touchstone for many young people. The video is a testament to the band's commitment to social and political issues, and it shows the band’s ability to create art that is both compelling and meaningful. The music video is a powerful visual representation of the song's themes. The video is a moving tribute to the power of the human spirit.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Music Videos

And there you have it, guys! A journey through some of the most iconic music videos from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. These videos shaped generations, launched careers, and continue to inspire us today. From the birth of the music video to the explosion of MTV and the rise of grunge, these three decades were a golden era for visual music. The music videos we have looked at have left a lasting impact on popular culture. They also helped to shape the future of the music industry. The music videos have left an enduring legacy. These music videos demonstrate the power of creativity and the importance of pushing boundaries. These videos have changed the way we consume music. They have shown how a music video can be a work of art, a statement, and a cultural touchstone. The evolution of music videos continues, with artists constantly finding new ways to express themselves and connect with their audience through the power of the visual medium. So, keep exploring, keep discovering, and most importantly, keep enjoying the amazing world of music videos!

What are your favorite music videos from these decades? Share your thoughts and memories in the comments below! Keep the music playing! And keep watching! We'd love to hear from you. Until next time, stay groovy, stay awesome, and keep enjoying the music! Thanks for joining us on this trip down memory lane. We hope you enjoyed it as much as we did!