8 Rock Bands That Released Cringe-Worthy Music Videos

The 1980s and 1990s saw classic rock bands embracing music videos to promote their songs. While some videos became iconic, others missed the mark, leading to awkward or confusing visuals. Here are eight notable examples.

1. Journey – “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)”

In 1983, Journey released “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” with a video featuring the band performing against a warehouse backdrop. Notably, they mimed playing invisible instruments, leading to an awkward presentation. The video’s attempt at dramatizing the song’s emotion resulted in unintentional humor, especially with exaggerated gestures and expressions.

2. Starship – “We Built This City”

Starship’s 1985 hit “We Built This City” came with a video that combined random cityscape imagery with peculiar visual effects. The disjointed scenes, including floating band members and unrelated stock footage, left viewers puzzled. The video’s lack of coherent theme contributed to its reputation as one of the more perplexing productions of its time.

3. Billy Squier – “Rock Me Tonite”

In 1984, Billy Squier’s “Rock Me Tonite” featured a video where he danced around a pastel-colored room, tearing off his clothes. The choreography and set design were widely criticized, leading to a negative impact on his career. The video’s attempt to portray a carefree vibe instead came across as forced and awkward.

4. David Bowie and Mick Jagger – “Dancing in the Street”

The 1985 collaboration between David Bowie and Mick Jagger, “Dancing in the Street,” showcased the duo dancing energetically in casual attire. The video’s low-budget production and exaggerated performances were seen as over-the-top. Despite their star power, the lack of a clear concept made the video less impactful.

5. Judas Priest – “Hot Rockin'”

Judas Priest’s 1981 video for “Hot Rockin'” depicted the band engaging in a gym workout, lifting weights, and running on treadmills. The attempt to showcase their physical prowess felt out of place for a heavy metal band. The juxtaposition of fitness routines with rock music created an odd and mismatched visual experience.

6. Styx – “Mr. Roboto”

In 1983, Styx released “Mr. Roboto,” featuring a video with lead singer Dennis DeYoung disguised as a robot. The sci-fi storyline and robotic dance moves were intended to be futuristic but came off as campy. The video’s literal interpretation of the song’s theme led to a presentation that many found unintentionally amusing.

7. Aerosmith – “Pink”

Aerosmith’s 1997 video for “Pink” utilized body-morphing special effects, transforming band members into various forms. The experimental visuals aimed for innovation but were perceived as unsettling. The video’s ambitious concept didn’t resonate with all viewers, leading to mixed reactions.

8. Guns N’ Roses – “Garden of Eden”

In 1991, Guns N’ Roses released “Garden of Eden” with a video featuring rapid camera movements and fisheye lens effects. The chaotic visuals and frenetic editing matched the song’s energy but were overwhelming. The video’s intensity made it difficult for some viewers to follow, detracting from the music itself.