Music Video Genre FeaturesAll music videos belong to a genre and sometimes subgenres within that, which categories the type of footage is portrayed to the audience. Some of these genres include rock, r’n’b, hip-hop and classical.

R’n’BHip-HopThe majority of hip hop music videos avoid using live performances and opt for the lip syncing technique. Throughout hip hop music videos the artist usually perform a professionally choreographed routine. Therefore meaning that lip syncing is the easiest option. The videos tend to be up beat and colourful to satisfy their target audience of mainly teenagers. The most common shots show direct address to the camera, close ups, low angel shots, props such as cars, social backdrop of hip hop community which is usually a ghetto culture. Mise-en scene include sports jerseys showing masculinity. A popular hip hop artist would include Eminem.

R’n’B music videos generally focus on the artist as a persona. The artist is usually surrounded by symbols of wealth, popularity and sex. Popular locations include mansions, clubs, bars and sometimes on the street. The aim of these videos are to portray their status within their social group. Likewise the use of back up dancers are frequent within these videos often exposes their femininity and body, showing desire towards the men but showing no relevance within the video. Similar to hip hop the camera angel include low angel shots and direct address, hand held shots and close ups. These videos are aimed at a particular audience which is often parental advisory and reference to the male gaze.