Remember those days spent in front of the TV, watching MTV music videos that were equal parts great and terrible? The memories of David Bowie and Mick Jagger’s wild dance moves in “Dancing in the Streets” or the Rolling Stones’ bubble-filled “It’s Only Rock ‘n Roll” video may bring a smile to your face. These offbeat videos were the heart and soul of MTV during its music-focused days.
Looking back, it’s clear that sometimes the “bad” music videos are more entertaining than the “good” ones. This sentiment is perfectly captured in Ultimate Classic Rock’s list of “20 of rock’s worst music videos,” where some clips that were once ridiculed can now be appreciated in all their quirky glory.
Among the unconventional videos featured in the list is Starship’s “We Built This City,” a video that showcases a time before the seamless use of green screens. Another standout is Styx’s “Music Time,” a chaotic masterpiece that combines aliens, giant hamburgers, and more in a truly bizarre visual experience.
Even videos for number one hits found their way onto the list, including the video for Journey’s “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart).” This unintentionally hilarious clip features the band in denim attire, playing air instruments on a wharf while a mysterious woman roams around, creating a surreal backdrop.
Guitarist Neal Schon reflected on the video in a 2012 interview, admitting uncertainty about its quality. Keyboardist Jonathan Cain also expressed mixed feelings, acknowledging the video’s cheesy nature but also recognizing its enduring impact.
Despite its flaws, the video for “Separate Ways” remains a piece of music video history, serving as a reminder of the early days of music video production. Whether viewed as cheeseball or iconic, this video continues to spark conversation among music fans.
In the world of music videos, sometimes the most unforgettable moments come from the unlikeliest sources. As we look back on these quirky visual creations, we’re reminded that artistry can take many forms, even in the world of music videos.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.