Top 10 Most Hauntingly Beautiful Music Videos
#10: “Sleep on the Floor” (2016)
The Lumineers
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There are many ways to deal with the passing of a loved one. In the video for “Sleep on the Floor,” a woman joins her partner on a road trip of self discovery. She almost finds herself consumed by grief, but instead channels her emotions into a life-affirming journey. This inspirational tale encourages viewers to embrace the day with the knowledge that every moment is precious. Keeping a hopeful view of the future, the main character sees the country and builds a life with a potential soulmate. The fact that it’s all revealed to be a what-if scenario adds a sad poignancy that gets us crying and appreciating the little things in life.
#9: “The Living Years” (1989)
Mike + The Mechanics
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For this classic 1980s video, Mike + The Mechanics take a look at the bonds between fathers and sons. Choirs bring the chorus about the complex relationships between family members to life. And when we see a dad with his child, the important message at the heart of the lyrics comes out. Plus, signs of the departed represent the memory of people who shape our lives. In combining these simple shots with a powerful message, the band reminds viewers to appreciate their loved ones while they’re still around. To top it all off, the funereal theme helps to convey the emotion coming from the performance.
#8: “Hello” (2015)
Adele
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In this music video, Adele visits an old mansion and gorgeous woods to explore her past. Flashbacks take a look at a defunct relationship, as the artist calls her former self. “Hello” has a dreamlike quality, taking a look at the concept of memory and regret. And there’s no denying Adele’s dramatic visual performance works especially well alongside her stellar vocals. With the perfect song playing, the story of a former flame plays out in flashbacks to great effect. The plot unfolds like a real piece of cinema that could’ve easily become a feature-length film. It’s full of heartbreak, and inspires us all to do some more self-reflection.
#7: “The Scientist” (2002)
Coldplay
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From the opening notes, “The Scientist”’s simple but soul-stirring melody lets you know you’re in for an emotionally heavy journey. The music video compliments these kinds of feelings, with slow frames and beautiful shots of Chris Martin that are aptly timed, tugging at our heartstrings. The story plays out in reverse, as we follow Martin as he walks, runs, and leaps backwards through a city landscape. By the end, we learn that we’ve been watching the aftermath of a tragic car accident, which resulted in the protagonist’s companion being flung through the windshield. The final moments, showing how happy they were right before the crash, are juxtapositionally heartbreaking. It’s a great video that’s just as resonant as the song it was made for.
#6: “Thank U” (1998)
Alanis Morissette
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Choosing to reveal herself, Alanis Morissette is unafraid to take a chance with this concept. Her memorable video for “Thank U” could’ve been a disaster, but actually functions like a welcome change of pace from an artist at her peak. She walks around the city as an Eve-like figure as she observes people living their lives. Showing gratitude for everything, she welcomes the ebbs and flows of being in an urban landscape. It all plays out like a welcome hug to humanity filled with vulnerability and strength. It goes beyond mere shock value, instead making us stop and really think.
#5: “Happier” (2018)
Marshmello feat. Bastille
Any animal lover should have a box of tissues handy before pressing play on this video. In the story, a young girl receives a puppy for her birthday. The two grow up together as the pet provides emotional support during tough times. This makes it especially heartbreaking when the owner has to say goodbye. While nothing lasts forever, this plot shows that it’s important to remember all the good times we have with our pets. There’s also a hopeful message at the end about honoring their memory and being able to move forward. You might not want to watch it more than once, but this Marshmello video tackles important themes that leave a lasting impact.
#4: “Adam's Song” (2000)
Blink-182
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While Blink-182 is known for their irreverent sense of humor, they also have an underrated catalog of serious tracks. “Adam’s Song” represents one of their saddest and most honest releases. The melancholic video follows the band during their day-to-day life, while spotlighting people around them that are having a hard time. These background characters’ experiences speak to mental health difficulties that sometimes happen without anyone knowing. Through these small moments, the band highlights the often unspoken realities that affect millions. The quiet, moving beauty of this music video speaks volumes for anyone familiar with that internal pain.
#3: “Lazarus” (2016)
David Bowie
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For one of his final releases, David Bowie delivered another master stroke of music and visual art. The “Lazarus” video finds him laying in a room blindfolded, interspersed with scenes of him in front of a wardrobe. The vulnerable imagery gives viewers an unfiltered look into his last months. Watching this after his death, people can make many connections between the imagery and his health. He begins to float above the bed, and ultimately enters the wardrobe, in moments that could be seen as a metaphor for passing away. You could interpret this as a brutal examination of dying, but it’s also full of honesty about the process. Ultimately, Bowie grapples with inescapable truths in a transcendent conclusion to his career.
#2: “Beautiful” (2002)
Christina Aguilera
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Christina Aguilera was always considered a great talent, but this song and video helped take her career to another level. The clip features a variety of people dealing with personal issues, from doubting their bodies to being judged. There’s a positive message here that speaks to providing compassion, visibility, and affirmation to those who need it the most. Far from being preachy, Aguilera offers up empathy and support for everyone in this video, with multiple groups having applauded the work for its inclusion of the LGBTQIA+ community. As the vocalist sings about the beauty within all of us, these visuals function as the perfect accompaniment to bolster its honest look at humanity.
Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.
“Wake Me Up When September Ends” (2005), Green Day
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“My Immortal” (2003), Evanescence
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“I Know You Care” (2012), Ellie Goulding
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“Everytime” (2004), Britney Spears
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#1: “Hurt” (2003)
Johnny Cash
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Johnny Cash was in the final stages of his life when he filmed this video for “Hurt.” In a way, he almost seems to be waving goodbye with the piece. His moving performance combines with images of his life and career. The mixture is sure to move audiences to tears, giving the Nine Inch Nails song a new and powerful meaning. He’s willing to put himself on display during one of his most vulnerable moments as an artist, and the result is breathtaking. Ultimately, Cash and his wife June share the screen in this eulogy full of difficult reflections, hope, hurt, and love.
Did we forget a haunting video? Let us know in the comments below.
