Music Video Purposes

I consider the main purpose of a music video is to advertise the artist/band.  For example when a song like "Burn it Down" by Linkin Park is watched, the main attention is on the band. They do this by using a range of camera angles on each band member.

I think that a music video shows the audience the message they want to portray through the lyrics, it helps the public understand the message clearer.  A great example is Beyonce "If I were a Boy" as this music video explains a deep relationship and how men and women are portrayed in relationships.

Star image is very important in the way an artist/band is portrayed to the public in their music videos as it will create a lasting impression on the viewer of the band/artist. A music video allows the artist/band to show the public their personality and widen their fan base to increase their profit.  for example when they go on tour and sell their clothing and tickets for their fans. An example of an artist who really shows her personality through her music videos is Lady Gaga. She does this by being her normal outrageous self, showing the public she isn't a quiet person but someone who is there to make a statement.

There are a number of other purposes of making a music video, for example; to deliver a social/ political message. A great example is "MIA Born Free" This controversial video is has a political message that is shared with the nation. There is a lot of different opinions about this film, many are negative as it is very shocking and outrageous. A music video shouldn't shock you like this film does, in the sense of shooting someone in the head however it should shock you n a good way that helps you to remember the music video. Below is a clip from the film.

To keep the artist in the public's eye without doing live shows constantly, pure entertainment, to evoke a reaction to leave an impression on the viewer(s), to give viewers  better understanding of the song ad many more. All these purposes are important as they keep the connection between the public and the artist, it allows the public to keep up-to-date with the artist(s).

Another purpose for a music video would be an extension of income through advertisement for CD's, perfume, upcoming tours etc because this will extend their income and promote them as a successful artist as they have products in their name(s). It is very important to advertise an artist/band as much as you can. Advertising products is a great way to earn more money as fans will see the tour tickets or product(s) and want to see them live. This also gives the artist a "bigger name" as that artist/band would be know for their product. 
 A controversial music video is a video that is shocking to the public, something that will create a stir. A great example of a controversial music video is Robin Thicke Blurred Lines. This is a great example because everyone was talking about how random the music video was because it had naked/ half naked women (Depending on what clip you watch) walking around the artists. A video like this helps make money for the artist and record company because everyone is talking about it, it's gone public very quickly and has spread like wild fire simply by word of mouth.

     Music videos have been used to fill in for bands on tour or when they are unavailable because the music videos are such good quality and still gives the artist promotion.It keeps them in the public eye so they're not constantly having to be on live shows and put on live gigs.

     Music videos have enabled an extension of outlets by using ITunes, music TV channels, Youtube etc. All throughout time, artists have been advertised on tv, radio and the internet because everyone can access at least one. An example of an extension of income/ net outlets are Rhianna's new clothing line that has come out (image below), many artists have their own perfume/ cologne or sell cheap tickets for their upcoming gigs in hope that it will sell their album or advertise a new album release.
     

Rhianna at her new clothing line