Most folks likely recognize Michael Nesmith as one of The Monkees, that iconic 1960s pop/comedy band. However, Nesmith’s journey extended far beyond those Monkee days. Surprisingly wealthy even before joining the band, he owed it to his mother’s invention of liquid paper, also known as whiteout. The Monkees soared, selling a whopping 75 million albums from 1966 to 1971.
Post-Monkees, Nesmith ventured into a solo career. In the late ’70s, he shook things up with his song “Rio,” pioneering a fresh take on music videos. Unlike the prevalent live performance videos, Nesmith’s creations intertwined storytelling with the music, a revolutionary departure. The narrative, driven by the song, marked a cinematic shift, offering music fans a more “hyper-real” experience.
Beyond his groundbreaking music videos, Nesmith birthed “PopClips” on Nickelodeon, showcasing comedians like Howie Mandel as early video jockeys. Although he eventually sold his stake, his influence lingered. John Lack, COO of Warner-Amex Satellite Entertainment Company, used Nesmith’s concept to birth MTV in 1981.
The realm of music is not confined to lavish lifestyles and grand concerts; music videos are their visual counterparts, often requiring blockbuster budgets. This article explores the 10 priciest music videos, from Michael Jackson’s groundbreaking effects to Madonna’s cinematic splendor. These visual masterpieces aren’t just song promotions; they’re cultural artifacts reflecting technological and creative pinnacles.
Topping this extravagant list is “Scream” by Michael Jackson and Janet Jackson. Released in 1995 with a staggering $7 million budget, adjusted to $13.4 million today, it remains the most expensive music video ever. Directed by Mark Romanek, the video presents a futuristic, anti-gravity world, a visual and thematic marvel. In this post we are sharing with you top 10 most expensive Music Videos of all time.
10 Most Expensive Music Videos
10. “Victory” by Puff Daddy (featuring The Notorious B.I.G. & Busta Rhymes) (1998)
$2,700,000 (Inflation-adjusted: $4,847,652)
9. “Rollin’ (Air Raid Vehicle)” by Limp Bizkit (2000)
$3,000,000 (Inflation-adjusted: $4,614,581)
8. “Cartoon Heroes” by Aqua (2000)
$3,500,000 (Inflation-adjusted: $5,947,633)
7. Make Me Like You” by Gwen Stefani (2016)
$4,000,000 (Inflation-adjusted: $4,877,427)
6. “Black or White” by Michael Jackson (1991)
$4,000,000 (Inflation-adjusted: $8,594,185)
5. “Estranged” by Guns N’ Roses (1993)
$5,000,000 (Inflation-adjusted: $10,129,003)
4. “Bedtime Story” by Madonna (1995)
$5,000,000 (Inflation-adjusted: $9,602,533)
3. “Express Yourself” by Madonna (1989)
$5,000,000 (Inflation-adjusted: $11,804,027)
2. “Die Another Day” by Madonna (2002)
$6,100,000 (Inflation-adjusted: $9,924,773)
1. Michael Jackson and Janet Jackson, “Scream”
$7,000,000 (Inflation-adjusted: $13,443,547)
The budget wasn’t just about opulence; “Scream” responded to the intense media scrutiny Michael and Janet faced. The song’s lyrics, coupled with the video’s metaphor of a media-saturated future, served as a defiant rebuke to critics. With its pioneering special effects, intricate set designs, and innovative CGI, every frame reflected a commitment to pushing boundaries.
“Scream” earned critical acclaim, hailed as a music video masterpiece. Beyond its cost, it redefined the genre as both an art form and a medium for personal expression. The impact lingers, setting a high bar for creativity and production values in the music industry.
