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Music Video

"Music video" is a term which came into popular usage during the 1980s. However, the concept of playing music to accompany short films has existed since long before. In fact, many originated during the 1920s. Some of the names associated with such early productions include Lee De Forest and Oskar Fischinger.

During the 1960s, the Scopitone was invented in France. This was a visual jukebox which had a great influence on music video. It featured a 16 mm color film clips and a magnetic soundtrack. The spread to West Germany, England, and eventually to the U.S.

Music video has been primarily valued for its promotional purposes. This started even during the time of Oskar Fishinger. However, it grew into greater prominence during the late sixties and early seventies. The "song films" or "film inserts" were great for spreading the image of a band around when they could not appear live in many areas. Today, these works not only advertise artists and labels but also food, beverages, clothing, and other products. Plenty are even used to promote movies or religious views or organizations.

 

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