Top 10 2000s Music Videos That Defined Our Childhood
#10: “I Write Sins Not Tragedies” (2006)
Panic! at the Disco
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In the mid-2000s, Panic! at the Disco introduced themselves by making a massive stamp on pop culture with this absolute classic. The video sets itself up as a normal wedding until singer Brendon Urie shows up. He’s not alone either, as the vocalist is joined by a collection of carnival performers that completely derail the events. It’s as stylish as it is rebellious. The ringmaster brings together a collection of wedding crashers, hoping to super-charge the ceremony and give the groom a wake-up call. Most people remember this for Urie’s performance and the cast’s memorable wardrobe. It’s also worth the watch for the dramatic reveal at the end.
#9: “Umbrella” (2007)
Rihanna feat. Jay-Z
When you’re as good a performer as Rihanna, it’s only natural to want to showcase all your skills in your music video. “Umbrella” comes down to some cool effects and the singer’s alluring energy. With sparks flying around, Jay-Z also makes an appearance alongside a group of backup dancers, delivering straightforward choreography that feels like a welcome throwback. Even if it’s not reinventing the wheel, this concept gives the director enough room to run wild with artistic choices. Rihanna is at the center of it all, dancing with an umbrella and proving herself with another stellar performance. Considering the title, what more could you ask for in a music video?
#8: "Weapon of Choice” (2001)
Fatboy Slim feat. Bootsy Collins
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Already a film legend, Christopher Walken took up the mantle of a music video star in “Weapon of Choice.” The award-winning actor delivers a self-assured performance, showing that his skills extend far beyond just the big screen. Blending genuine talent and comedy, Walken breaks out his dancing steps in an empty hotel lobby. His nimble movements effortlessly synchronize with the unique choreography, owning the moment with his vibrant energy. The absurd experience then takes an unexpected turn as the performer defies gravity and soars through the air. It’s impossible not to love Walken as he tears up the screen, introducing himself to a whole new generation in the process.
#7: “Hey Ya!” (2003)
Outkast
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For this energized video, André 3000 performs one of the most popular Outkast songs in front of a studio audience. This might have been enough for viewers, but the idea goes one step further. The rapper also plays every instrument in a full band, made up of his clones. They each get their own wardrobe and personalities, providing this show with an extra layer of entertainment. To top it all off, André 3000’s charismatic stage presence elevates “Hey Ya!” to the pinnacle of its era, especially during the iconic breakdown about Polaroid pictures. The adoring audience mirrors all of us, as we experience this performance with pure joy.
#6: “Stacy’s Mom” (2003)
Fountains of Wayne
Mixing elements of rock and pop, “Stacy’s Mom” is undeniably entertaining from start to finish. The song itself is a ton of fun, but the music video does a lot to elevate its entertainment value. The narrative revolves around a boy who has a crush on his friend’s mom, played to hilarious effect with a series of purposely ridiculous scenarios. There’s even fantasy sequences of the mother dancing suggestively in the kitchen. If you don’t take the plot too seriously, you’ll probably enjoy this blast from the past. It not only accompanies a really catchy tune, but also stands as a major cultural reference two decades later.
#5: “You Belong With Me” (2009)
Taylor Swift
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Taylor Swift fans will argue over her most iconic music video moments, but without question, “You Belong With Me” deserves a place in the conversation. In the video, the singer plays a typical girl next door, who’s hopelessly in love with her neighbor. In addition, Swift also portrays the popular girl in a believable dual role, showcasing her range as a performer and storyteller. What’s more, the costumes and handwritten signs used in the video remain a popular reference point among fans. Inspired by some of her most famous lyrics, this clip comes to a highly satisfying and crowd-pleasing conclusion.
#4: “The Real Slim Shady” (2000)
Eminem
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During his mainstream breakthrough, Eminem released “The Real Slim Shady” to huge commercial and critical success. The accompanying video, which featured cameos from celebrities like Kathy Griffin and Fred Durst, showcased the artist’s unique and inventive style. The clip takes a humorous and satirical look on celebrity culture, effectively highlighting Eminem’s trademark wit in very surprising ways. Despite being from his early work, the rapper’s irreverent tone already feels fully formed, establishing a unique point-of-view that would help to shape hip-hop in the 2000s. There are honestly a few things from Eminem’s career that are as iconic as the image of him performing next to his doppelgängers.
#3: “Poker Face” (2008)
Lady Gaga
When the masked Lady Gaga emerges from a pool in this music video, she almost single handedly changes the trajectory of pop music. Gaga’s tremendous impact on the industry at large may not have begun with “Poker Face,” but the remarkable work definitely pushes the already rolling ball even further. Her many iconic outfits in the clip only help to solidify her mythic status. From the instantly recognizable choreography to her pure charisma, Gaga manages to draw our attention from the very first second until the thrilling end. There’s definitely a generation of kids that saw this video and became lifelong Lady Gaga fans.
#2: “Oops!... I Did It Again” (2000)
Britney Spears
Sporting one of the most famous outfits of early 2000s music, Britney Spears got the decade off to an energized start with “Oops!... I Did It Again.” The video tells a captivating science fiction story that could easily stand alone as its own film. Decked in a red jumpsuit, Spears dances with a host of backup performers, creating a series of unforgettable visual moments throughout the video. There’s even an easter-egg for “Titanic” fans to enjoy. Coming on the heels of her successful debut “...Baby One More Time,” this follow-up feels like one of the best ways to capitalize on such a triumphant start.
Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.
“Say My Name” (2000), Destiny’s Child
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“In Too Deep” (2001), Sum 41
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“Hips Don’t Lie” (2006), Shakira feat. Wyclef Jean
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“Work It” (2002), Missy Elliott
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“Dirrty” (2002), Christina Aguilera feat. Redman
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#1: “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)” (2008)
Beyoncé
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Where would popular culture be without this video? Taking the world by storm, Beyoncé created one of her most indelible music moments of the decade with “Single Ladies (Put the Ring on It).” The singer and her backup dancers deliver an unforgettable choreography that’s still beloved to this day. With just a few hand motions, they completely bring the song to life. It also speaks to the artistry of the performer that she can do it all with a limited setup and production design. This video cements Beyoncé’s place in history and serves as an eternal reminder of her supreme talents.
Did we forget one of your favorites? Let us know in the comments below.
