Making media has never been more accessible, and the result is that everything is competing for the same attention. Some of the best examples of work that still cuts through are music videos that push past the song and build a whole visual world around it.

From a marketing point of view, a music video exists to sell the song. It gives the audience a reason to listen and something to remember. But the great ones go further. Animation in particular can take a track somewhere no camera could, and when it’s paired with strong sound it’s some of the most engaging work out there.

Here are some of my favorite animated music videos, the ones that did this so well they became as well known as the songs themselves.

1. Moby – My Only Love
2. Gorillaz – Feel Good Inc.
3. Caravan Palace – Lone Digger
4. London Grammar – Hey Now
5. Metallica: Murder One
6. Sturgill Simpson – Sing Along
7. Gorillaz – Aries ft. Peter Hook & Georgia
8. Queens Of The Stone Age – Go With The Flow
9. Red Hot Chili Peppers – Californication
10. K/DA – POP/STARS (ft. Madison Beer, (G)I-DLE, Jaira Burns)
    (Riot Games and K/DA have released many cool videos)

A series of animated music videos for Steven Wilson also deserves an honorable mention.

1. Steven Wilson – Drive Home
2. Steven Wilson – Routine
3. Steven Wilson – The Raven That Refused To Sing

I’m sure I’ve left out some great ones. If there’s a video you think belongs on this list, send it my way on social media or by email. I’d love to see it.