5 Classic Rock Songs with Awful Music Videos
via Journey / YouTube
Music videos became a big part of rock in the 1980s and 1990s. Some added to a song’s appeal, but others missed the mark. Here are five classic rock songs where the videos didn’t match the music’s quality.
1. “Rock Me Tonite” – Billy Squier
Billy Squier’s 1984 hit “Rock Me Tonite” reached No. 15 on the Billboard Hot 100. However, its music video, directed by Kenny Ortega, featured Squier dancing in a pink tank top on satin sheets, which many found awkward. The video’s style didn’t align with his rock image and was criticized for its presentation.
The video’s reception was so negative that it’s often cited as a factor in Squier’s career decline. He later expressed regret over the video, stating that it didn’t reflect his original vision. The controversy surrounding the video overshadowed the song’s success.
2. “Psycho Circus” – KISS
In 1998, KISS released “Psycho Circus” with a music video intended to showcase 3D effects. Instead, the video featured outdated computer graphics, including giant skeletons and flying objects, which didn’t resonate with fans. The visuals were compared to low-budget video game scenes.
The attempt at a futuristic theme fell flat due to the technology’s limitations at the time. Rather than enhancing the song, the video became a distraction, leading to criticism from both fans and critics. It remains one of the less favorable entries in KISS’s videography.
3. “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” – Journey
Journey’s 1983 video for “Separate Ways” features the band performing on a dock, miming instruments that aren’t visible. The concept was meant to be artistic but came across as confusing. The band’s serious expressions contrasted with the absence of actual instruments.
The video’s setting and execution didn’t match the song’s energy. Instead of adding depth, it left viewers puzzled. Over time, it has been referenced as an example of music videos that didn’t effectively complement their songs.
4. “Body Language” – Queen
Queen’s 1982 track “Body Language” marked a departure from their usual style, embracing a more electronic sound. The accompanying video featured dim lighting and suggestive imagery, aiming for a sensual atmosphere. However, it was criticized for being overly provocative.
The video’s content led to it being banned by MTV, a rare occurrence for the network at the time. Fans and critics felt the visuals didn’t align with the band’s image. This misstep highlighted the challenges artists faced when experimenting with new styles.
5. “Mr. Roboto” – Styx
Styx’s 1983 song “Mr. Roboto” introduced a sci-fi narrative, with the video featuring lead singer Dennis DeYoung in a robot costume. The storyline attempted to depict a futuristic escape but was seen as overly theatrical. The robotic dance moves and costumes were viewed as excessive.
While the song achieved commercial success, the video’s reception was mixed. Many felt it detracted from the music rather than enhancing it. The ambitious concept didn’t translate well on screen, leading to its inclusion in discussions of less effective music videos.
