18 Music Videos That Changed MTV, Stunned Viewers, and Defined an Era

Before streaming, social media, and on-demand entertainment, music videos were cultural events. A memorable premiere could turn an unknown performer into a superstar, spark nationwide controversy, influence fashion, or introduce visual effects audiences had never seen before. Artists such as Elvis Presley helped establish the power of televised performance, but MTV transformed music and television into one unforgettable experience.

When MTV launched in 1981, it promised viewers nonstop music television. For years, fans tuned in to discover new artists, watch their favorite stars, and see which outrageous video everyone would be discussing the next day. Although the network eventually shifted toward reality shows and other original programming, its early music-video era remains one of the most influential chapters in pop-culture history.

Thousands of videos appeared on MTV, but only a select few genuinely changed the medium. Some broke creative barriers, others shocked viewers, and several helped define an entire generation. 24/7 Tempo reviewed the videos that made the biggest cultural impact to identify 18 iconic music videos that changed MTV forever.

On August 1, 1981, MTV premiered its first music video, completely changing the history of music, "Video Killed the Radio Star" By The Buggles. This incredibly catchy tune took the world by storm. While not the most popular song here, it deserves a mention for being the first.

They don't call this the best music video ever written for no reason. Michael Jackson's "Thriller" music video is flashy, interesting, and continues to be referenced decades later. It debuted on MTV on December 2, 1983, and was an instant hit for many reasons including the makeup, choreography, and stage production.

Another 80's music video we can't forget to mention is "Take On Me" by A-ha. Not only is the song really easy to hum along to, but the music video was quite innovative for its time. The music video blended both animation and real life, inspiring many other videos.

Who doesn't know Britney Spears - the Queen of Pop? She was an MTV star back in the day, releasing hits after hits, including the song and music video, "…Baby One More Time." The schoolgirl outfit and vibes of the music video quickly sparked a trend.

Like Britney Spears, the Spice Girls took the world by storm. Their debut brought them to fame in no time. "Wannabe" was frequently played on MTV and even won Best Dance Video at the 1997 MTV Video Music Awards.

All it took was one song for Cyndi Lauper to rise to fame. "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" is a fun song with an even more exciting and vibrant video. Although not as dramatic or unique as others at its time, it was loved quickly. In 1984, the video won the MTV Video Music Award for Best Female Video.

Guns N' Roses had a hard time getting MTV to air their music video for "Welcome To The Jungle," but once they did, it grew popular. Almost immediately, their music video became the most requested to see again.

"Smells Like Teen Spirit" is one of the most listened-to songs in the world. The music video is just as incredible. The chaotic elements of the music video make it hard for your eyes to turn away. This is likely why it won the Best New Artist and Best Alternative Group awards in 1992.

You don't have to be a rock/metal lover to know the song "Enter Sandman" by Metallica. This amazing single is arguably one of their most well-known songs. In 1991, the shocking music video was released on MTV. The editing and story won it the Best Hard Rock Video at the 1992 MTV Video Music Awards.

Madonna has always been the it girl, even long before this awe-inspiring music video. "Vogue" used unique camera shots and black-and-white coloring to portray the video's story expertly. This one video managed to receive nine nominations at the 1990 MTV Video Music Awards and impressively won three.

Peter Gabriel's music video for "Sledgehammer" is not only iconic and unique, but a cultural gem. This strange music video blended stop motion, claymation, and pixilation seamlessly. It was odd enough to capture the hearts of viewers worldwide. The music video even earned nine MTV Video Music Awards in 1987.

Madonna was not scared to push boundaries in music or fashion, regardless of what others thought. This is clear in her jaw-dropping music video, "Like a Prayer." It was littered with controversy, something Madonna wanted to do. Even with so much outcry from religious groups as she danced in front of a burning cross, the video and song are still referenced today.

While Sinead O'Connor didn't originally write or produce "Nothing Compares 2 U," they made it popular worldwide. The music video is simple and yet powerful. A big chunk of the movie is just close-up shots of the singer's face showing strong emotions. Still, in 1990, it won three MTV Video Music Awards.

"What's Love Got To Do With It," by Tina Turner, was frequently played on MTV, and for a good reason. This beautiful and lively song is too catchy to ignore, and the music video is just as good. The video won "Best Female Video" at the 1985 MTV Video Music Awards.

Mixing rap and rock was very new in the 90s, and yet it was widely loved with songs like "Sabotage" by the Beastie Boys. The music video is funny and eye-catching, parodying well-known crime drama shows of the 70s. The video was nominated for five awards at the 1994 MTV Video Music Awards, and while it didn't win any, it inspired plenty of artists and filmmakers.

The music video accompanying "Mo Money Mo Problems" is a hidden gem. There are so many great moments within the video that are easy to miss. The flashy wardrobe, coupled with the great talent, made this video iconic in every sense of the word. Who wouldn't want to wear their shiny red jumpsuits?

The "1979" music video by The Smashing Pumpkins is energetic, fun, and still holds a lot of love. It follows a group of teenagers driving through what seems to be their hometown, looking for a good time. While not revolutionary or life-changing, it was fun enough to capture the hearts of viewers and won the band the MTV Video Music Award for Best Alternative Video in 1996.

Last but not least is "California Love" by 2Pac. This unique song actually had two separate music videos, both of which were loved by fans. The first music video released was nominated for an MTV Video Music Award for Best Rap Video in 1996.