Music videos have been a significant form of expression in the music industry since the debut of MTV in 1981. Over the years, their cultural importance and production quality have only increased, making them a cornerstone of contemporary culture. Iconic examples include Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” Beyoncé’s “Formation,” and Katy Perry’s vibrant “California Gurls.”
With the advent of platforms like YouTube, the reach and impact of music videos have expanded exponentially. For instance, Luis Fonsi’s “Despacito” holds the record for the most views on YouTube, amassing over 8.5 billion views since its release in 2017.
Artists create music videos for various purposes, such as literal and figurative storytelling, pure artistic expression, and social commentary. These methods often overlap and span across different genres and artists, enriching our visual and auditory experiences.
Last year, we celebrated the anniversary of MTV’s launch by featuring songs that first aired on MTV on August 1, 1981, and incorporating them into our cycling profiles.
As we celebrate the 43rd anniversary of MTV’s launch, it’s the perfect time to revisit some of the best music videos of all time. There are numerous sources to find lists of the best videos, and while these lists can be somewhat subjective, they offer a great starting point. Simply Google “best music videos,” and you’ll find a plethora of options.
To make it easier for you, we’ve curated a Spotify bucket playlist of our favorite music videos (about 50 songs so far), some posted below with their YouTube links. Additionally, Fern Stancer has created a unique profile for you to use, drawing from these iconic music videos. It’s called the Iconic Video Power Pedal which ICA members can access below. You don’t need the ability to project videos in your classes to enjoy this profile and playlist (though if you can, it’s even better!)—it’s simply a great concept to direct your playlist choice. The profile begins and ends with a long climb and in the middle, takes you through some high-intensity intervals. As usual, you’ll work hard to great, motivating music!
Now, let’s take a look at some of our favorite music videos!
Thriller, Michael Jackson, 5:57, 118 bpm
This 13-minute mini-movie was a cultural phenomenon that influenced a generation of directors, turning music promos into an industry and establishing MTV as a cultural force. The iconic red jacket worn by Michael in the video is considered one of the greatest pieces of rock-and-roll history, auctioned off for over $1.8 million in 2011. This epic track is perfect for a climb with its dynamic shifts and thrilling beats. You can choose to stand on the chorus at 1:30–1:50 (20s), 2:27–2:45 (13s), and 3:58–4:15 (17s).
Formation, Beyoncé, 3:26, 122 bpm
In 2021, Rolling Stone ranked this as the number-one music video of all time. The video evokes powerful images of Black cultural pride, oppression, wealth, tragedy, and resilience, making it a visually stunning and socially impactful masterpiece. This track is ideal for an empowering climb in your ride, with the option to stand twice at 0:46–1:06 (20s) and 2:12–2:28 (14s).
Despacito, Luis Fonsi, 3:49, 178 bpm
A globally loved feel-good anthem, “Despacito” is a party staple. At 89 rpm, it’s a great warm-up to set the mood for an amazing journey or an endurance ride with longer, moderate- to high-cadence intervals. The video’s vibrant scenes of Puerto Rican culture add to its appeal. Don’t forget to add this song to your playlist for Hispanic Heritage Month! The remix featuring Justin Bieber adds another layer of appeal.
California Gurls, Katy Perry, 3:55, 125 bpm
Relentlessly upbeat and light-hearted, “California Gurls” was the anthem of summer 2010. The Candyland-themed video is iconic, featuring scenic California beaches, cotton candy clouds, ice cream sundae mountains, peppermint-stick serpents, and Snoop Dogg dressed in a cupcake-printed suit. Use this fun and catchy song for a climb, standing on the chorus for extra energy at 0:54–1:24 (30s), 1:55–2:25 (30s), and 3:04–3:50 (45s).
Vogue, Madonna, 5:17, 116 bpm
Madonna’s “Vogue” turns the dance floor into a place where people can escape their worries. This iconic video set the trends of dance music in the 1990s and gave us the verb “vogueing.” At just under 60 rpm, this high-energy, slow climbing track will have you “striking a pose” and feeling fabulous as you stand on the chorus at 1:58–2:15 (17s), 2:48–3:04 (16s), 3:28–3:44 (16s), and 4:33–5:12 (39s).
ICA members can access Fern’s new profile based on the best music videos below. Do you have a favorite music video? Share your favorites in the comments below, and we’ll add them to our bucket playlist!