The Best Hip Hop Music Videos of 2015
Contents
Check out our list of the best hip hop music videos of 2015. From Kendrick Lamar to Drake, these are the videos that defined the year in hip hop.
Introduction
Hip hop music gave birth to a new art form in the 1980s – the music video. MTV’s iconic show “Yo! MTV Raps” started airing in 1988, and though it only ran for six years, its influence was everlasting. The show put a new spin on music television, and gave hip hop its first real platform.
Since then, the music video has become an integral part of hip hop culture. Some videos are pure entertainment, while others are powerful statements on social issues. In recent years, we’ve seen a resurgence of the “ golden age ” of hip hop music videos, with artists putting more emphasis on quality visuals to go along with their dope tracks.
As we look back at 2015, we’ve compiled a list of the best hip hop music videos of the year. These are the videos that caught our eye and ear, and that we think are deserving of recognition.
Kendrick Lamar – “Alright”
Directed by Colin Tilley, this music video for Kendrick Lamar’s “Alright” was released in June of 2015. The video features Lamar and others performing in front of various landmark locations in Compton, including the Compton Courthouse and the city’s infamous drug corner. In addition to being visually stunning, the video is also a powerful statement about the fight for social justice and equality.
Drake – “Hotline Bling”
Drake’s “Hotline Bling” video is simultaneously one of the most straightforwardly literal and most allegorical hip hop videos in recent memory. Director Theo Skudra shot the video in one continuous take, using a static fisheye lens to keep the focus on Drake’s face and body as he bops around a soundstage alone, making ample use of a bright, pastel wardrobe, bad phone puns, and some very awkward dad dancing.
The only thing that interrupts the fun is the occasional cut to a Miguel Fiorini-designed animatronic head that stares at the viewer with an unsettling smile, surrounded by baroque golden cherubs. It’s a nice visual metaphor for how Drake’s view of himself (as expressed in the lyrics) doesn’t quite match up with how the world sees him, and it adds an extra bit of pathos to an otherwise lighthearted video.
Big Sean – “Blessings”
Big Sean’s “Blessings” is easily one of the best hip hop music videos of 2015. The video is creative, visually stunning, and features a great performance from Sean. The video tells the story of a group of friends who are trying to make it in the music industry, and features cameos from some of the biggest names in hip hop. If you’re a fan of hip hop, or just great music videos, “Blessings” is a must-watch.
Vince Staples – “Senorita”
Vince Staples’ “Senorita” is one of the best hip hop music videos of 2015. The video was directed by Josh Shultz and it features Staples rapping in front of a green screen that shows different images and footage throughout the video. The video is simple, but it’s also very effective and it helps to showcase Vince Staples’ lyrical talent.
Chance the Rapper – “Angels”
“Angels” is a song by American rapper Chance the Rapper, featuring vocals from singer Saba. It was released on October 26, 2015, as the second single from Chance’s third mixtape, Coloring Book. The song peaked at number 35 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and number four on the US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. The song was nominated for two Grammy Awards at the 59th Annual Grammy Awards: Best Rap Song and Best Rap Performance.
Rae Sremmurd – “Throw Sum Mo”
are an American hip hop duo, composed of brothers Khalif “Swae Lee” Brown (born June 7, 1995) and Aaquil “Slim Jxmmi” Brown (born December 29, 1993). They are best known for their platinum singles “No Flex Zone” and “No Type”. They are signed to Mike Will Made It’s EarDrummer Records imprint and Interscope Records. The duo released their debut album SremmLife in January 2015.
In November 2014, Rae Sremmurd released the single “Throw Sum Mo”, featuring Nicki Minaj and Young Thug. The song peaked at number 36 on the US Billboard Hot 100.
The music video was released on December 18, 2014. It was directed by Eif Rivera.
Travi$ Scott – “Antidote”
“Antidote” is a song by American hip hop recording artist Travi$ Scott. The song was released on July 28, 2015, as the lead single from his debut studio album, Rodeo (2015). The song peaked at number 16 on the US Billboard Hot 100.
The music video for “Antidote” was released on August 5, 2015 and was directed by Hype Williams. The video features Scott in various settings, including a desert and a club.
Future – ” Trap Niggas”
Future’s “Trap Niggas” was one of the most stand out tracks off of his incredible mixtape, Beast Mode. The song is an ode to the trap, with Future reflecting on his humble beginnings in the drug game. The video is set in what appears to be an abandoned house in the hood, with plenty of cameos from some of Atlanta’s top trap stars. It’s a gritty and realistic portrayal of life in the trap, and it’s one of the best hip hop music videos of 2015.
Conclusion
In 2015, hip hop artists continued to push the boundaries of music videos, creating innovative and creative visuals to accompany their songs. From Drake’s emotional “Hotline Bling” video to Kendrick Lamar’s hard-hitting “Alright” clip, these are the best hip hop music videos of 2015.
