The Best Animated Music Videos of the 2010s: A Decade of Visual Innovation

The Best Animated Music Videos of the 2010s: A Decade of Visual Innovation

The 2010s were a golden age for music, but also a transformative period for visual media. The rise of platforms like YouTube and Vimeo created unprecedented opportunities for artists to explore creativity through visuals. Among the most exciting developments was the surge in high-quality animated music videos. These weren’t just simple cartoons set to music; they were often complex, narrative-driven pieces of art that elevated the songs they accompanied. This article will delve into some of the most memorable and innovative animated music videos of the 2010s, exploring their styles, themes, and lasting impact.

A Revolution in Visual Storytelling

Before diving into specifics, it’s important to understand the context. The 2010s saw a significant shift in how music was consumed. Digital downloads and streaming services became dominant, and artists needed to find new ways to stand out. Animated music videos offered a unique solution: a visually compelling experience that could be shared easily and repeatedly. This led to a surge in investment and creativity, resulting in some truly groundbreaking work. The accessibility of animation software also democratized the process, allowing independent artists to create stunning visuals without massive budgets.

Highlighting Standout Animated Music Videos from the 2010s

Let’s explore some of the most significant examples of animated music videos from the 2010s, covering various styles and genres. These videos pushed the boundaries of what was possible and left a lasting impression on both the music and animation industries.

Gorillaz – “DoYaThing” (2012)

While Gorillaz are known for their animated band members, “DoYaThing” stands out for its collaboration with artist James Murphy and Andre 3000. The video, directed by Jamie Hewlett, is a chaotic and surreal depiction of the band’s life in a rundown apartment. Its raw energy and unique visual style perfectly complement the song’s experimental sound. The animated music video captures the essence of urban decay and artistic collaboration.

Flying Lotus – “Tiny Tortures” (2014)

Directed by David Firth, “Tiny Tortures” is a disturbing and unsettling animated music video that perfectly captures the eerie atmosphere of Flying Lotus’s music. The video features grotesque and surreal imagery, exploring themes of anxiety and paranoia. It’s a prime example of how animation can be used to create a truly visceral and unsettling experience. The unsettling imagery makes it a memorable, if not disturbing, piece.

Tame Impala – “Feels Like We Only Go Backwards” (2012)

Directed by Joe Pelling and Becky Sloan, this animated music video is a psychedelic journey through a world of claymation creatures. The video’s vibrant colors and surreal imagery perfectly complement the song’s dreamy and nostalgic sound. It’s a masterclass in stop-motion animation and a testament to the power of visual storytelling. The repetitive, hypnotic visuals mirror the song’s themes of cyclical relationships.

Radiohead – “Daydreaming” (2016)

While not entirely animated, “Daydreaming” features significant animated sequences that enhance its dreamlike quality. Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, the video follows Thom Yorke as he wanders through a series of surreal and interconnected spaces. The animated elements add a layer of mystery and intrigue, making it a truly unforgettable visual experience. The seamless blend of live-action and animation creates a captivating atmosphere.

Porter Robinson & Madeon – “Shelter” (2016)

Produced by A-1 Pictures, “Shelter” is a poignant and emotional animated music video about a young girl who lives in a simulated reality created by her father to protect her from the end of the world. The video’s stunning animation and heartfelt story resonated with audiences worldwide, making it one of the most popular animated music videos of the decade. The narrative depth and emotional resonance set it apart from many other music videos.

Jamie xx – “Gosh” (2016)

While the original video is live-action, the alternate animated music video for “Gosh,” directed by Erik Wernquist, is a breathtaking journey through a futuristic cityscape. The video’s stunning visuals and immersive atmosphere perfectly complement the song’s ethereal sound. It’s a testament to the power of CGI and visual effects. The blend of architectural design and musical rhythm creates a mesmerizing experience.

Childish Gambino – “Feels Like Summer” (2018)

Directed by Donald Glover, Ivan Dixon, and Greg Sharp, “Feels Like Summer” features a cast of animated celebrity cameos navigating a hot and surreal cityscape. The animated music video tackles themes of climate change, social issues, and the anxieties of modern life. Its vibrant visuals and thought-provoking message made it a viral sensation. The subtle commentary on contemporary culture adds layers of meaning to the visuals.

The Impact and Legacy

The animated music videos of the 2010s had a profound impact on the music industry and beyond. They demonstrated the power of visual storytelling and pushed the boundaries of animation as an art form. Many of these videos went viral, reaching millions of viewers and helping to launch the careers of both musicians and animators. They also paved the way for future collaborations between artists and animators, leading to even more innovative and exciting work. The animated music video format became a crucial tool for artists to connect with their audience on a deeper level. The creative freedom afforded by animation allowed for exploration of complex themes and narratives that might be difficult to convey through other mediums.

Moreover, the accessibility of animation software and platforms empowered independent artists to create their own animated music videos, bypassing traditional gatekeepers and fostering a more diverse and vibrant creative landscape. This democratization of animation has continued to shape the industry, leading to a wider range of styles and voices being represented.

The Future of Animated Music Videos

As technology continues to evolve, the future of animated music videos looks brighter than ever. The rise of virtual reality and augmented reality offers new opportunities for immersive and interactive experiences. We can expect to see even more innovative and experimental work in the years to come, as artists continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible. The blend of music and animation will undoubtedly continue to captivate audiences and inspire new generations of creators. The animated music video has proven its staying power as a vital art form.

In conclusion, the animated music videos of the 2010s represent a significant chapter in the history of both music and animation. They showcased the power of visual storytelling, pushed the boundaries of creativity, and helped to shape the way we consume music today. From the surreal landscapes of Tame Impala to the emotional depth of Porter Robinson & Madeon, these videos left a lasting impression and paved the way for a future filled with even more innovative and exciting work. The decade provided a fertile ground for experimentation, leading to a diverse range of styles and narratives that continue to resonate with audiences today. The animated music videos discussed here are just a small sample of the incredible work that was produced during this period, and they serve as a testament to the enduring power of music and animation to inspire and connect us.

The continued evolution of animation technology, combined with the ever-changing landscape of music consumption, ensures that animated music videos will remain a vital and dynamic art form for years to come. [See also: Best Music Videos of All Time] [See also: The Evolution of Animation Techniques]

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