The ‘90s marked a transformative era where music videos transcended mere entertainment to become a recognized art form. During the previous decade, the focus was primarily on superficial elements such as performance clips, playful antics, and the presence of video vixens. However, the ‘90s ushered in a new wave of creativity as innovative directors began to recognize the potential of music videos as an artistic medium. Many of these visionary directors transitioned successfully to feature films, demonstrating the depth and potential for storytelling within the format.

As a result, music videos began to showcase intricate narratives, striking production designs, and thought-provoking concepts. Numerous artists leveraged this platform to promote social awareness, while others delved into the more complex themes embedded in their lyrics, pushing the boundaries of conventional music video storytelling.

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In this article, we have meticulously ranked the 30 Greatest Music Videos of the ‘90s, featuring legendary artists such as Guns N’ Roses, Nirvana, Tom Petty, R.E.M., and Nine Inch Nails.

30. Nirvana, “Heart-Shaped Box”
Directed by the acclaimed Anton Corbijn, Nirvana’s 1993 music video for “Heart-Shaped Box” merges his signature moody aesthetic with the band’s raw, unrefined sound. The video attracted significant attention for its bold religious symbolism, including an unsettling image of a gaunt, elderly man crucified while donning a Santa hat. This surreal visual experience underscored Nirvana’s commitment to their distinct artistic identity and their refusal to conform to mainstream expectations, even as they ascended to global stardom.

29. Rage Against the Machine, “Killing in the Name”
Capturing the explosive energy of Rage Against the Machine’s “Killing in the Name” in a music video posed a considerable challenge. In this iconic 1992 clip, Peter Gideon, a friend of guitarist Tom Morello, filmed the band’s electrifying live performances across two intimate clubs in Los Angeles. By employing dynamic angles, emotive close-ups, and innovative motion control techniques, Gideon successfully encapsulated the band’s fervent anger and adrenaline, perfectly mirroring the song’s powerful message of resistance.

28. Radiohead, “No Surprises”
Although “No Surprises” might not be the most renowned track from Radiohead’s critically acclaimed 1997 album OK Computer, its music video is undeniably unforgettable. The visual comprises a single, continuous shot of frontman Thom Yorke, encased in a glass, space-like helmet that gradually fills with water. This striking imagery aligns with the haunting lyrics that reflect the exhaustion of a job that “slowly kills you.” Remarkably, the video was created with minimal special effects, showcasing Yorke’s genuine struggle as he came alarmingly close to drowning during filming.

27. Smashing Pumpkins, “1979”
The music video for “1979” by the Smashing Pumpkins exudes a nostalgic, home movie aesthetic. It beautifully captures a group of friends engaging in quintessential teenage escapades as they transition into adulthood. Viewers witness scenes of house parties, the blossoming of young love, and a carefree act of vandalism at a convenience store, all interspersed with frontman Billy Corgan narrating the story from the back of a car, creating a wistful and relatable depiction of youth.

26. Stone Temple Pilots, “Interstate Love Song”
The music video for Stone Temple Pilots’ “Interstate Love Song” opens with a poignant black-and-white silent film sequence, showcasing a heartbroken man being cast out of a castle by his beloved princess. As the song launches, the visuals transform into a rich purple hue, symbolizing the title of STP’s 1994 album. Band members, including Scott Weiland, perform energetically on an industrial rooftop while the lovelorn character, humorously depicted with an increasingly elongated nose, desperately races to escape his heartache.

25. Verve, “Bitter Sweet Symphony”
The Verve’s 1997 anthem “Bitter Sweet Symphony” serves as a profound reflection on the disconcerting, often tragic aspects of daily life. The music video features frontman Richard Ashcroft walking through a bustling London street, engaging in accidental collisions with an array of pedestrians. Despite the chaos, including an encounter with an irate woman upset by his intrusion on her car, Ashcroft remains steadfast in his journey. This compelling visual narrative garnered massive airplay on MTV and received three VMA nominations, solidifying its status as a quintessential representation of the Britpop movement.

24. Fiona Apple, “Criminal”
Fiona Apple burst onto the music scene with her 1997 debut album Tidal, and the third single “Criminal” became her commercial high point, peaking at No. 21 on the Billboard Hot 100. The accompanying video features Apple in various states of disarray, sulking and provocatively dressed. Rather than falling into the trap of overt sexualization, Apple’s portrayal reflects a deeper internal conflict as she grapples with the destructive use of her allure. The video is a mesmerizing blend of sensuality and emotional turmoil, captivating audiences with its raw intensity.

23. Green Day, “Basket Case”
Creating a music video for a song titled “Basket Case” naturally led Green Day to set the scene in a mental institution. The band insisted on filming in an actual, albeit abandoned, facility, specifically the Agnews Developmental Center in Santa Clara, California. Drawing inspiration from the film One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, Billy Joe Armstrong and the band deliver a high-energy performance interspersed with moments depicting medication intake and vivid hallucinations. The video’s vibrant color palette enhances its surreal quality, making it a memorable visual experience. “Basket Case” received nine nominations at the 1995 MTV Video Music Awards but did not win any accolades.

22. Soundgarden, “Black Hole Sun”
Soundgarden’s “Black Hole Sun” stands out as another perplexing music video, contributing to the era’s surreal aesthetic. In the clip, Chris Cornell and the band perform against the backdrop of a suburban neighborhood, where residents display distorted, sinister smiles. As a mysterious plague engulfs the community, the titular “Black Hole Sun” looms ominously in the sky. The juxtaposition of cheerful grins morphing into screams creates a hauntingly unforgettable visual experience that resonates with viewers long after watching.

21. Oasis, “Wonderwall”
The music video for “Wonderwall” can be viewed as a reflection of Oasis’s complex dynamic. Directed by Nigel Dick, the black-and-white clip primarily features Noel and Liam Gallagher performing the song in a stark warehouse. Despite the heartfelt nature of the song, the brothers’ visible irritation during the shoot adds a layer of tension to the video. Their real-life squabbles nearly escalated into physical confrontations, further emphasizing the raw, unfiltered emotions captured in this compelling visual.

20. Jane’s Addiction, “Been Caught Stealing”
Jane’s Addiction’s music video for “Been Caught Stealing” embodies a charmingly DIY spirit. The straightforward premise showcases band members and various characters engaging in shoplifting antics at a small local grocery store. Shot with a handheld camcorder aesthetic, the video serves as a nostalgic snapshot of the ‘90s culture, capturing the carefree yet rebellious essence of the era.

19. Aerosmith, “Cryin’”
Before becoming iconic in ‘90s pop culture through her role in Clueless, Alicia Silverstone starred in three notable Aerosmith music videos, with “Cryin’” being the standout. In this narrative, Silverstone portrays a teenager grappling with betrayal after discovering her boyfriend (Stephen Dorff) cheating. Her emotional turmoil leads her on a rebellious journey, culminating in a dramatic moment on a freeway overpass. Just as her ex arrives, she leaps, only to reveal a bungee cord preventing her fall. “Cryin’” became MTV’s most requested video of 1993, solidifying its impact.

18. Blind Melon, “No Rain”
Blind Melon’s “No Rain” remains a beloved staple of ‘90s rock music, enduring in popularity more than 30 years post-release. The music video is particularly memorable for introducing audiences to the “Bee Girl,” a character brought to life by young actress Heather DeLoach. In the clip, she performs a tap dance in a bee costume during a talent show, only to be ridiculed. Undeterred, she ventures into a world outside her school, ultimately discovering a nurturing community of similarly dressed dancers, celebrating joyfully atop a sunlit hillside.

17. David Bowie, “I’m Afraid of Americans”
Many may not realize that the initial version of David Bowie’s “I’m Afraid of Americans” debuted on the Showgirls soundtrack. However, the more widely recognized rendition appeared on his 1997 album Earthling. Collaborating with Brian Eno and Trent Reznor of Nine Inch Nails, Bowie delivered an industrial track pulsating with anxiety. This tension manifests vividly in the music video, where Reznor portrays a menacing character named “Johnny” who stalks and torments Bowie throughout the unsettling narrative.

16. Van Halen, “Right Now”
In retrospect, Van Halen’s music video for “Right Now” may seem cheesy, yet it was groundbreaking for its time as one of the first to deliver a “video with a cause.” The visuals tackle significant societal issues such as safe sex, climate change, corporate greed, and the dangers of smoking. Although some band members, including Sammy Hagar, expressed concern that the video might overshadow the song itself, “Right Now” received widespread acclaim, ultimately winning Video of the Year at the 1992 MTV Video Music Awards.

15. Radiohead, “Karma Police”
Few artists from the ‘90s produced music videos as impactful and haunting as Radiohead’s “Karma Police.” The narrative follows a car pursuing a man desperately trying to escape down a deserted road. The footage is primarily viewed from the perspective of the unseen driver, while Thom Yorke sings stoically in the backseat. In a dramatic twist, the hunted man ignites a gas leak, engulfing the car in flames, turning the tables in a shocking conclusion. Directed by Jonathan Glazer, this unforgettable clip earned him the VMA for Best Direction.

14. Aerosmith, “Livin’ on the Edge”
The music video for “Livin’ on the Edge” combines an array of bizarre elements, including a group of rebellious Catholic schoolgirls, teenage bullying, gunplay, auto theft, cross-dressing, and a train barreling toward the band members, who are humorously dressed as turkeys. The seemingly chaotic mix results in a memorable yet perplexing visual experience that captivates viewers long after the final credits roll.

13. The Cure, “Friday I’m in Love”
The Cure’s 1992 music video for “Friday I’m in Love” draws inspiration from the innovative French filmmaker Georges Méliès. The clip features Robert Smith and the band playfully interacting on a soundstage filled with ever-changing backdrops and props, creating a dynamic and whimsical atmosphere. “Friday I’m in Love” achieved heavy rotation on MTV and won the International Viewer’s Choice Award at the 1992 VMAs, showcasing its popularity and artistic merit.

12. George Michael, “Freedom! ’90”
Feeling overwhelmed by the relentless scrutiny of the media, George Michael made a bold decision in the early ‘90s, opting out of traditional photo sessions and music videos. For the concept of “Freedom! ’90,” he enlisted renowned supermodels Naomi Campbell, Linda Evangelista, Tatjana Patitz, Christy Turlington, and Cindy Crawford to lip-sync his song, creating a powerful statement about empowerment and independence. Directed by David Fincher, the video revolutionized how women were portrayed in music videos, presenting them as strong and confident figures rather than mere objects of desire.

11. Metallica, “Enter Sandman”
Metallica’s classic 1991 track “Enter Sandman” taps into the fears that haunt childhood, and its accompanying music video delves into these themes through the lens of a young boy’s nightmarish experiences. The video creatively employs strobe lighting to enhance the surreal and disturbing imagery that unfolds. “Enter Sandman” garnered the award for Best Hard Rock Video at the 1992 MTV Video Music Awards, underscoring its impact and popularity during that era.

10. Pearl Jam, “Jeremy”
It’s worth noting that the iconic music video for “Jeremy” was actually the second attempt made by Pearl Jam for this song. Initially, they enlisted photographer Chris Cuffaro, but after some initial footage, their label pushed for a different direction. Mark Pellington ultimately directed the video that would become synonymous with Pearl Jam’s identity. The powerful narrative depicts the tragic story of a bullied teenager who ultimately takes his own life. The video faced controversy upon release and required edits for MTV, yet it won four VMAs and remains a hauntingly impactful piece.

9. Red Hot Chili Peppers, “Give It Away”
The music video for Red Hot Chili Peppers’ 1991 single “Give It Away” presents a striking blend of tribal and futuristic elements. Set against the backdrop of a vast desert, the band performs while covered in silver paint, creating a chrome-like appearance through the black-and-white filming style. The dynamic camera movements contribute to a sense of otherworldliness, leaving viewers with an impression of witnessing an alien species in an extraterrestrial landscape.

8. Weezer, “Buddy Holly”
In the music video for “Buddy Holly,” directed by Spike Jonze, viewers are transported to the iconic Arnold’s diner, reminiscent of the beloved TV series Happy Days. Characters like Richie and the Fonz are seen enjoying the band’s performance, while other 1950s teenagers dance along to the catchy tune. Utilizing traditional filmmaking techniques rather than computer-generated effects, the video stands as a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness of its director and team.

7. R.E.M., “Losing My Religion”
R.E.M.’s music video for “Losing My Religion” is an artistic triumph, employing negative space to evoke a profound sense of isolation. This stylistic choice, reminiscent of oil paintings, enhances the emotional weight of the visuals. With dramatic lighting, religious symbolism, and evocative imagery, the video directed by Indian filmmaker Tarsem Singh became a staple on MTV, earning six VMAs in 1991, including Video of the Year, solidifying its legacy.

6. Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, “Mary Jane’s Last Dance”
In the music video for “Mary Jane’s Last Dance,” Tom Petty creates a whimsical yet dark narrative, portraying a love story with a corpse, played by Kim Basinger. This morbidly romantic tale unfolds as Petty brings the lifeless body home, treating it as if it were alive. They share moments of intimacy, including watching television and dining together, culminating in a poignant farewell as he sends her out to sea, only for her to open her eyes in a striking finale. The video won the MTV Video Music Award for Best Male Video in 1994, marking a significant achievement in Petty’s illustrious career.

5. Beastie Boys, “Sabotage”
Decades after its release, the Beastie Boys’ music video for “Sabotage” remains an undeniably entertaining experience. The band members, Ad Rock, Mike D, and MCA, don an array of ridiculous costumes reminiscent of ’70s cops while engaging in comical antics. From dramatic door kicks to high-speed chases and donut-eating moments, the absurdity of their dress-up and playful energy make the video a timeless classic that continues to resonate with fans.

4. Sinéad O’Connor, “Nothing Compares 2 U”
In contrast to the complexity of many other videos on this list, Sinéad O’Connor’s “Nothing Compares 2 U” is a striking example of simplicity done right. The video features close-ups of O’Connor against a stark black background, allowing her powerful emotions to take center stage. Her raw vulnerability is palpable, especially during a moment when she tears up, an unscripted reaction triggered by memories of her late mother. While other ‘90s videos dazzled with visuals, none matched the heartfelt authenticity captured in “Nothing Compares 2 U.”

3. Guns ‘N Roses, “November Rain”
The music video for Guns N’ Roses’ “November Rain” ranks among the most extravagant and expensive ever produced. This cinematic masterpiece narrates the poignant story of a rock star (Axl Rose) grappling with the tragic aftermath of his wife’s suicide due to infidelity. The video features breathtaking visuals, including their wedding interrupted by a thunderstorm, interspersed with scenes of mourning and GNR performances. With stunning production values, “November Rain” stands as a hallmark of music video artistry, becoming the first rock video to surpass a billion views on YouTube in 2018.

2. Nine Inch Nails, “Closer”
The music video for “Closer” by Nine Inch Nails was initially deemed too provocative for MTV, leading to its rejection. However, as the band gained prominence, an edited version was eventually aired. The video is filled with haunting imagery, including a naked woman with a crucifix, a chained monkey, a severed pig’s head, and frontman Trent Reznor suspended in a dramatic tableau. Despite the controversy, the video’s artistic merit and popularity led VH1 to rank it as No. 1 on their list of Greatest Music Videos of All Time, cementing its place in pop culture history.

1. Nirvana, “Smells Like Teen Spirit”
Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit” is not only the most iconic music video of the ‘90s but also stands among the greatest rock videos ever created. The video visually captured the essence of the grunge movement that defined a generation. Its distinctive visuals, including the cheerleaders, the janitor, and the eerie high school setting, have become instantly recognizable. Even without the band, these elements are so striking that audiences can identify the clip by a single frame. Such lasting impact signifies its status as a timeless piece of art.