Performance Music Video

A performance video is when an artist or band is visibly performing in front of an audience or on their own and they are seen throughout the majority of the video. They may create videos with a lot of performance in to build a relationship with the audience.

Some examples of performance videos are: 

• Sparks Fly - Taylor Swift
• Red - Taylor Swift
• Livin' On A Prayer - Bon Jovi

Sparks Fly - Taylor Swift

Red - Taylor Swift

Livin' On A Prayer - Bon Jovi

What is found in performance music videos is that close ups are often used on the performer when they're directly addressing the audience. An example of a performer directly addressing the audience is in the Livin' On A Prayer music video when Bon Jovi puts his mic and hand out to the crowd.

The close ups may include iconography which suggests the music genre. Occasionally an artist has a recognisable motif that is echoed throughout the video.  (Like in the Slipknot music video Before I Forget). The guitars, black clothing and tattoos suggest that the music genre is heavy metal.

Also with performance videos, clips of live stage performances are seen as well are clips of the audience. This allows the audience to feel a sense of involvement and adds to the atmosphere.

Sparks Fly - Taylor Swift

Additionally, there are shots of the artist in 'real life' situations. Such as setting up, warming up or messing about. This gives the audience access to a more personal view of the performers, even if it still constructed for this purpose.

Another element noticeable in performance videos are the use of unusual places. To add to the entertainment value, artists may perform in unusual places and will be lip synced. For example, on roof tops, fields etc.