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Get ready to groove as we spotlight some of the most unforgettable choreography in music video history! From iconic moves that sparked dance crazes to visually stunning routines that raised the bar, this countdown showcases videos that changed the way we see dance in pop culture. Featuring legends like Michael Jackson, Beyoncé, and BTS, these performances blend style, storytelling, and pure skill that keep fans hitting replay.
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00:04Welcome to Ms. Mojo, and today we're counting down our picks for the top 50 most interesting,
00:10unique, and memorable examples of music video choreography in history.
00:22Number 50, Thinking Out Loud, Ed Sheeran.
00:26As a music video that brought ballroom dancing right back into the mainstream,
00:30Ed Sheeran succeeded in crafting something truly special and unique with Thinking Out Loud.
00:34Darling, I will be loving you till we're 17.
00:42The song was already destined to become a favorite for loving couples to slow dance to.
00:47Sheeran himself opted to step into the spotlight for this video,
00:50spending weeks of vigorous training so he could nail the routine.
00:54Your soul could never grow old.
00:58It's evergreen.
01:01Critics and fans alike praised Sheeran for taking such a central role, a major first in his career.
01:08The result was one of the most iconic videos of its time,
01:11a display of intimacy and subtlety that perfectly matched its soundtrack.
01:15We found love right where we are.
01:21Number 49, Butter, BTS.
01:24For as much as we could have gone with mic drop or permission to dance,
01:27we couldn't pass up an opportunity to talk about the video for BTS' Butter.
01:39Acclaimed for its charisma-heavy dance routine,
01:42this video is a perfect balance of individual expression and group cohesion.
01:53Despite the fact that the group needed to pull together to make a technically sound end product,
01:58each member still has their moment to shine, allowing their personality to come to the surface.
02:02It came as no surprise that this song went on to maintain its status as one of their biggest hits
02:08and most beloved videos.
02:16Number 48, One Two Step, Sierra featuring Missy Elliott.
02:20Directed by Benny Boom, Sierra's legendary One Two Step music video was truly one of the standout visual experiences of
02:272000s R&B.
02:35Rhythm and flow are front and center in this routine, with an Atlanta backdrop, alternating between a dance studio and
02:42the streets.
02:43Sierra's effortless execution set a new standard for cool, controlled performance,
02:47and in many ways, it had a major influence on the music videos in the genre that followed it.
02:52I don't stop it, everybody get on the floor, I think it's party up.
02:58Upon its release, it peaked at number two on the Billboard charts.
03:01Helped in no small way by the constant circulation of this excellent promo video.
03:06I don't want to stop, everybody get on the floor, I think it's party up.
03:13Number 47, Ain't Your Mama, Jennifer Lopez.
03:17There's a lot to dig into when it comes to Jennifer Lopez's Ain't Your Mama.
03:20Lucky to have these curves, oh yeah, stop getting on my nerves, oh yeah, yeah, yeah.
03:28The music video for this 2016 hit covers a bunch of different visual styles and storytelling chapters.
03:34Styles ranging the 1950s to the present day are all covered with J-Lo firmly at the center of it
03:39all.
03:40Directed by Cameron Duddy, it immediately earned widespread acclaim,
03:43with 11 million views in the first three days after it went live.
03:47I ain't gonna be cooking all day, I ain't your mama, I ain't gonna do your laundry, I ain't your
03:54mama.
03:54It was a video that did more than just showcase an impressive routine, it was a video that had something
04:00to say.
04:00It was later described as a depiction of women's fight for independence, condensed down into just over five minutes.
04:06An impressive feat by any metric.
04:09I ain't your mama, no, I ain't your mama, no.
04:14Number 46, Can't Get You Out Of My Head, Kylie Minogue.
04:19Not many artists can pull off a number one hit in 40 different countries on their eighth studio album.
04:32Kylie Minogue is a rare exception though, proving her enduring quality with one of the biggest successes of her career.
04:38The music video is just as iconic as the song itself, directed by Don Shadforth and featuring choreography by Michael
04:45Rooney.
04:52Everything from the costume design to the striking visual tone of it all, made this one an instant hit with
04:57the fans.
04:58There's an undeniably psychedelic edge to the video, and Minogue's hooded white jumpsuit has since gone on to be regarded
05:04as one of the most iconic pop wardrobe choices of its time.
05:13Number 45, Mad World, Michael Andrews featuring Gary Jules.
05:18Considering how bleak this track is, those of you who have never seen the music video might be surprised at
05:23its placement here.
05:24All around me are familiar faces, worn out places.
05:31Don't get us wrong, the video is just as bleak as the tune itself.
05:35But the inclusion of a choreographed routine on the streets below as Gary Jules watches was a legitimate masterstroke.
05:42I find it hard to tell you, I find it hard to take.
05:47The poignancy of the song is only made more evident by the decision to turn movement into an expected type
05:52of art.
05:53The track, which was originally performed by Tears for Fears, was a huge hit, in large part due to its
05:58association with the film Donnie Darko.
06:00People run in circles, it's a very, very mad world.
06:08Number 44, Macarena, Los Del Rio.
06:12When the song Macarena debuted in 1993, little did they know just how much of a craze would eventually follow.
06:22The song was remixed by the Miami-based producers The Bayside Boys in 1995, leading to an explosion in popularity
06:29the following year when it climbed to the number one spot in the U.S.
06:39The reason behind its enduring appeal is mainly down to the dance routine that has since become a cultural staple.
06:45The best part? It's an extremely easy routine for anyone to join in on, proving that while there will always
06:51be a place for elaborate arrangements, sometimes it's just good to be simple.
06:59Number 43, It's Like That, Run DMC featuring Jason Nevins.
07:04In a field dominated by heavily choreographed and highly detailed videos, Run DMC stood out.
07:17The video for the Jason Nevins remixed version of their debut single, It's Like That, was defined by the undeniably
07:23loose and fun atmosphere of it all.
07:25Breakdancing was front and center in this video, and though the concept was simple, it worked in its favor.
07:38The song was a smash hit, reviving interest in the original while updating it for modern audiences.
07:43It topped the charts in several countries around the world, and its video remained in heavy rotation in the years
07:48that followed.
07:57Number 42, Pop, NSYNC.
07:59At their peak, NSYNC well and truly had their finger on the pulse of pop music.
08:09Their 2001 single, Pop, was delivered alongside one of the most expensive music videos of all time, reaching a production
08:16cost of $2.5 million.
08:18Huge sets, CGI, and a vigorous shooting schedule left us with a truly elaborate end product.
08:29Dirty, dirty, dirty, dirty, dirty, dirty, dirty, dirty, DUH!
08:31They even had to superimpose Joey Fatone's face onto SongRater and choreographer Wade Robson's body due to an injury he
08:38sustained 2 days before shooting.
08:39Thankfully, the resulting video justified its huge costs, and it ended up taking home four awards at the 2001 MTV
08:46VMAs.
08:58The early 2000's era of R&B was very much dominated by Christina Aguilera, and her iconic
09:04single Dirty was just about as strong a representative of that era as anything.
09:16The legendary diva took boxing lessons to prepare for the track's accompanying video,
09:20and actively did everything in her power to avoid making it pretty or glamorous.
09:25It has since gone on to be regarded as one of her finest creations, a gritty but undeniably
09:37seductive landmark for the music video medium.
09:39Directed by David LaChapelle, it was later described as one of the most explosive image resets in
09:45pop music history.
09:53Number 40. Level Up. Sierra. Released in 2018, Level Up marked a big resurgence for Sierra as
10:00a mainstream artist, a viral hit that became one of her most iconic tracks to date.
10:11Choreographed by Paris Goebel, the video accompaniment for Level Up was all about technical proficiency
10:16and stamina. In many ways, it was an instant classic for Sierra, and within 24 hours of its release,
10:22it had already hit the number one spot on YouTube's trending videos.
10:32When it comes to comeback hit singles, few in recent memory packed quite as much of a punch as this
10:38one.
10:38All this on me so yummy, all this sauce so yummy, no you want this yummy, yummy out of your
10:44time.
10:45Number 39. You Don't Have to Call. Usher.
10:48Shot back-to-back with the video for Usher's previous single, You Got It Bad.
10:52The video for You Don't Have to Call picks up exactly where its predecessor left off.
11:04Usher begins the clip in a state of depression, lying in bed, before eventually finding his groove.
11:09When that groove arrives, it culminates in a dance routine that serves as the perfect way for him to show
11:14off his moves.
11:24It's an uplifting track that is only helped by the video's narrative. Sure, the Diddy cameo has
11:29not aged particularly well, but this remains one of Usher's crowning achievements as a performer.
11:34Yeah, girl, I'mma be your mind. You're right. I'm gonna have some fun.
11:42Number 38. Chandelier. Sia.
11:45Though the famously reclusive Sia would not be drawn into appearing in the video for her hit single,
11:50Chandelier, her choice to direct it alongside Daniel Askel was a genius move.
11:56I'm gonna swim from the chandelier.
12:01Starring 11-year-old dancer Maddie Ziegler, this interpretive dance routine was an incredible
12:06companion piece for the song.
12:13In the video, Ziegler dons a blonde wig that very much resembles Sia's own chosen hair piece.
12:19And overall, the video succeeds in building off of the song's vibe and message.
12:23By the time the decade was over, it had grown to be regarded as one of the greatest and most
12:27culturally significant videos of the 2010s.
12:38Number 37. Crazy in Love. Beyoncé featuring Jay-Z.
12:43When Beyoncé entered her solo career era after the highly successful Destiny's Child,
12:47the question on everyone's mind was whether she could build on her earlier acclaim.
12:51Call your name two, three times in the road. Such a funny thing for me to try to explain.
12:56How I'm feeling and my pride is the one I blame.
12:59The debut single from her debut solo LP, Crazy in Love put all concerns to bed almost immediately.
13:05It spent eight weeks atop the Billboard Hot 100, helped in part by its fantastic music video.
13:18Jake Nava directed the accompanying music video, which elevated the track even more.
13:23It featured Beyoncé in a series of dance routines and backdrops, and in many ways,
13:28Knowles appeared to be throwing down the gauntlet to her fellow divas.
13:31In other words, a new queen had arrived on the scene, and the results were instantaneous.
13:43Number 36. I'm a Slave for You. Britney Spears.
13:47When it comes to Britney Spears, songs like Stronger or Baby One More Time would have
13:51certainly been worthy inclusions on this list. We decided to go with I'm a Slave for You in the
13:56end due to its release during a pivotal point in Britney's career.
13:59Baby, don't you wanna dance up on me?
14:07As an anthem for empowerment and a move into a more mature sound and image,
14:12Spears completely sheds her Girl Next Door label with this one.
14:15Directed by Frances Lawrence, it takes a clear influence from Janet Jackson,
14:19paying tribute to the pop trailblazers own choreography.
14:22It was eventually nominated for three awards at the 2002 MTV Music Awards.
14:34That's right, that's right, that's right.
14:37I won't take my hand, I'm not trying to hide.
14:40Number 35. Weapon of Choice. Fatboy Slim featuring Bootsy Collins.
14:46The easiest way to sell this music video is to just explain its concept very directly.
14:56Simply put, it's legendary actor Christopher Walken dancing after hours in a hotel lobby to the
15:02rhythm of the song in question.
15:03Weapon of Choice was already one of the strongest releases in Fatboy Slim's catalog.
15:15However, when paired with this ridiculous on paper but brilliant in practice music video,
15:20it became a pop culture sensation. Walken is a trained dancer, but given his reputation for highly
15:26serious and challenging dramatic roles, seeing him let loose like this was the last thing anyone expected.
15:37Number 34. Virtual Insanity. Jamiroquai.
15:41No matter how the music video turned out, Jamiroquai's Virtual Insanity was bound to be a hit.
15:46When things are big, that should be small. Who can tell what magic spells we'll be doing for us?
15:53However, the highly ingenuitive video took things to a totally different level. To the sound of his
15:58band's biggest hit, JK dances around the room on what appears to be a set with a moving floor.
16:03Later interviews with those involved revealed that there was a great special effects trick being
16:08played on us here.
16:16The floor is not what's moving. It's the walls and the furniture that are propped up on wheels.
16:21The result is a truly clever piece of video creation that still seems groundbreaking,
16:25even after several decades have passed.
16:32Number 33. Running Up That Hill. Kate Bush.
16:36By the time the mid-80s came, Kate Bush had fully matured into her role as a singer,
16:41writer, and producer.
16:49Her seminal album Hounds of Love marked the perfect combination of everything that makes her so
16:54beloved to music fans all these years later. She already had a reputation for uniquely engaging
17:00music videos prior to the release of Running Up That Hill, but this choreographed dance routine was
17:04instantly praised as a career high.
17:13Choreographed by Bush herself along with Diane Gray, she intended for the routine to cut through the more
17:18trivial use of dancing found in many of her contemporaries' videos. The end result? A highly
17:23emotive and timeless accompaniment to one of her best-ever songs.
17:35Number 32. Bad. Michael Jackson. Getting Martin Scorsese to direct your music video is not the type of
17:42thing that most artists can pull off.
17:51Then again, Michael Jackson is not like most other artists. By the time the promotional cycle for his
17:56Bad album came around, fan anticipation was reaching a true fever pitch. To simply call it a music video would
18:02be
18:03doing it a disservice.
18:10It is, in fact, an 18-minute short film with an entire narrative built in. It has since gone on
18:16to be regarded as one of
18:17Jackson's crowning achievements and a landmark moment for ambitious music videos.
18:26Number 31. Pleasure Principle. Janet Jackson. Coming in just ahead of Janet Jackson's Miss
18:32You Much is yet another one of her bonafide classics, Pleasure Principle.
18:42Choreographed by Barry Lather, the video is a stripped-down showcase for Jackson's talents,
18:47a performance alone in a loft framed as a solo practice session. At the 1988 MTV Video Music Awards,
18:54the video won the award for Best Choreography.
19:04It didn't need an elaborate concept or a huge narrative thread to be effective.
19:08This one was all about the dancing and the undeniable charisma of the woman at the center of it all.
19:17After all my life that we did.
19:22Number 30. When I Grow Up. The Pussycat Dolls. This girl group dominated the 2000s with their
19:28dance-heavy music videos. Indeed, any number of their iconic routines could have made our list.
19:33However, let's be honest, this one livened up a few traffic jams in its time.
19:37When I Grow Up. I wanna be famous. I wanna be a star. I wanna be a movie.
19:42When I Grow Up. I wanna see the world drive this far.
19:44Sure, we didn't abandon our cars to climb onto other vehicles and dance, but we sure thought about it.
19:50The group were trailblazers when introducing burlesque to the pop genre.
20:01Like many before them, they showed their fans how to take ownership of their bodies and feel empowered
20:06through powerful and sexy choreography. The dance break in this video alone makes it worthy of discussion.
20:11When we grow up, we wanna dance like the Pussycat Dolls.
20:20Number 29. Gangnam Style. Sigh. This music video was a total game changer for K-pop. The catchy tune,
20:27fun dance routine, and quirky style just exploded online.
20:39People all over the world were doing the dance, turning it into this massive global phenomenon.
20:44The moves were easy enough to pick up, meaning that even the most rhythmically challenged could
20:48get involved. Really, it was just about enjoying this playful and energetic vibe.
20:59It broke the record as the first video to surpass 1 billion views on YouTube.
21:04Sigh is also often credited with opening the door for other Korean artists to gain international success.
21:10You might say that he walked, or galloped, so that our favorite K-pop groups today could run.
21:15Sigh is also a big fan of the music video.
21:20Sigh is also a big fan of the music video.
21:21Number 28. Bye Bye Bye, NSYNC.
21:28Hey NSYNC millennials, you're dancing already, aren't you?
21:31This music video has a whole action plot with stunts and all,
21:34but we'd argue that it's Darren Henson's choreography that really gives it staying power.
21:45Henson apparently whipped up those moves one night in his hotel room.
21:48The lyrics apparently inspired him to add that quote,
21:51black power fist move that's now synonymous with the song.
21:54The dance is so simple yet so impactful, defining an entire era.
22:03The It's Gonna Be Me music video smoothly transitions from Bye Bye Bye,
22:07treating us to a whole new set of moves that we could probably pull off in our sleep.
22:12Whenever NSYNC plays, guess who will be on the dance floor?
22:14Guess who will be on the dance floor?
22:18Number 27. Yeah, Usher featuring Lil Jon and Ludacris.
22:22Usher's got that magnetic charm that's just so effortlessly smooth,
22:25whether he's keeping it cool or pulling out all the stops.
22:28Teaming up again with director Mr. X,
22:31Usher wanted a music video where he could flex his moves.
22:41Set in a club and inspired by Michael Jackson's Rock With You,
22:44the choreography practically narrates an entire story.
22:47Women flock to Usher, each trying to win his heart with her moves
22:51until it all comes together in a spectacular ensemble performance,
22:55with Usher leading the charge.
23:03Yeah went on to win the VMA for best dance video.
23:06As of April 2026, more than 1.2 billion people have said yeah to checking out his moves on YouTube.
23:13Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah.
23:17Number 26. Case of the Axe, Maya.
23:21Picture this. It's the year 2000 and you hear your parent calling out, desperately searching for the broom.
23:26Little do they know, Maya just released an epic music video and you need it to practice her killer moves.
23:32Tell me what is it that she needs?
23:35Does she hear about the brand new things that you just bought for me?
23:39We see Maya and her crew roll up to the desert for a dance-off of sorts.
23:43The choreography seamlessly blends elements of different styles of street dance.
23:47It includes moments of playful interactions between the dancers, incorporating elements of flirtation and vivacity.
23:53Don't do it when you can't say no and I'm gonna stop the show, boy, I really need to know
23:57it.
23:58How you gonna act? How you gonna have a bet?
24:00It's a high-energy routine with sharp and sassy movements that exude confidence and attitude.
24:06Even now, the sight of a broom makes us want to blast Maya's music at full volume.
24:10When I feel about the show, boy, I really need to know it.
24:13How you gonna act? How you gonna handle it?
24:15What you gonna do when she wants you back?
24:18Number 25. Sorry, Justin Bieber.
24:21Even though Biebs can dance like nobody's business,
24:23he let the royal family and Request dance crews take the spotlight in this video.
24:35Under the direction and choreography of the talented Paris Goebel, who also appears in the video,
24:41these crews stand out in their brightest outfits, showing off sharp, powerful, and attention-grabbing moves.
24:54It was originally planned as the backdrop to the lyric video.
24:57However, Bieber's team loved the dancing so much, they decided to keep it all dance.
25:02It's no wonder. Watching them move together is incredible.
25:05With so much energy and perfect timing, it makes you want to jump in and dance along.
25:10No wonder it's one of the most watched videos on YouTube.
25:20Number 24. Here it goes again.
25:23Okay, go.
25:24You thought your cardio routine was intense? Check out these guys.
25:34The group started getting noticed when videos of them goofing around blew up.
25:39Encouraged by their surprise success, they decided to try and replicate it.
25:43Lead singer Damien Koulash recruited his sister, movie and music video director Trish See,
25:48to help come up with another humorous idea.
25:55So they ended up with eight treadmills, hardly any money, and a pretty basic setup.
26:00When you can sync up that well, on moving treadmills no less, what more do you need?
26:05It apparently took them 17 tries to get it right, but they filmed the whole thing in one long take.
26:10No wonder it went viral.
26:18Number 23. Black Swan. BTS.
26:21There's no end to the BTS videos, or indeed, K-pop numbers that could have made our list.
26:26Turnin' through the city with a little fuckin' song.
26:30So I'mma flake it up like dynamite.
26:33While many of them are lively and energetic, like dynamite,
26:36there's something special about Black Swan that grabs your attention.
26:39Jump, jump, jump.
26:41I don't know that, though I touch you not.
26:43Sorry, I'm not sorry to know.
26:46Inspired by the classic elegance of the Swan Lake Ballet,
26:49and the intense drama of the 2010 movie Black Swan,
26:52this video showcases BTS as they essentially go through the famous transformation.
26:57Their story unfolds through contemporary dance moves that are both breathtaking and full of emotion.
27:09They truly take flight through every step, soaring to new heights,
27:13with a style that's refreshingly different, yet undeniably captivating.
27:16Seriously, is there anything this group can't do?
27:28Number 22. Scream. Michael and Janet Jackson.
27:32What happens when two groundbreaking dancers, who also happen to be siblings, join forces?
27:37A music video that makes you want to scream in delight.
27:40I care about mine. I've got to get stronger. And I won't give up the fight.
27:47The Jacksons have undeniably left an indelible mark on modern dance,
27:51and their influence can be seen in countless other videos.
27:53While they excel as solo artists, their collaboration creates something truly magical.
28:06The intense and almost futuristic choreography showcases the best of both brother and sister,
28:12highlighting their unmatched talents. This video was a massive hit, scoring 11 VMA nods in 1995,
28:18and winning three, including best dance video.
28:28Number 21. One, two, three, four. Feist.
28:31You might have bought an iPod Nano because of this song back in 2007.
28:36However, despite being famous for an Apple commercial,
28:38the song and music video have since outlasted it.
28:41Changing your heart. Oh, you know who you are.
28:47The dance moves might seem tame a decade later,
28:50but the colorful palette, smooth moves, and the impressive group formations
28:54by Leslie Feist and her backup dancers create a fun and unique video.
28:58It's not surprising that it won a Grammy for best short form music video.
29:02Who doesn't want to watch a blue sequined singer run around a circle made of brightly dressed dancers?
29:06Number 20. Elastic Heart. Sia.
29:09This music video shows you don't need a ton of dancers to make an interesting and emotional piece.
29:14Starring Maddie Ziegler and Shia LaBeouf, it depicts the two actors dancing out the Sia song,
29:19interpreting the words through body contortions in a large cage while only wearing skin-colored clothing.
29:24The dancing might seem random, but combined with the exaggerated facial expressions,
29:29it translates the raw emotion from the tune into a silent play for the viewer.
29:40Despite the controversy that followed its release,
29:42the music video was nominated for the 2015 VMA Award for Best Female Video.
29:47While it did not win, it became the 8th most viewed video on YouTube in 2015.
29:59This video was pretty much a staple of 2014.
30:02In fact, it was shown so often that you probably learn the dance due to the repeated exposure alone.
30:07We see the singer and her dancers grooving to the catchy tune
30:10down a Williamsburg sidewalk in Brooklyn in one continuous shot.
30:22Needless to say, it got people moving.
30:32And with every talk show performance, Kaiza found ways to make the number feel fresh.
30:37It's no wonder the music video became such a huge phenomenon,
30:40raking up hundreds of millions of views on YouTube.
30:53A perfect blend of nostalgia and outstanding choreography,
30:57Motivation was easily one of the most memorable music videos of 2019.
31:01Choreographed by Sean Bankhead,
31:03it sees Normani honoring some of the best music videos of the late 90s and early noughties,
31:07while still making the moves her own.
31:15You can spot clever nods to artists like Beyoncé, Britney, Sierra, JLo and others throughout.
31:21There's no doubt that the star's jaw-dropping talent will make you want to watch this video on repeat.
31:26Think about it, ooh, think about it, think about it, ooh, take a look at me now.
31:33And be honest, you've tried to bounce a basketball off of your butts in seeing it.
31:37Music videos like this are rarely made anymore, but we're all for them making a comeback.
31:51When it comes to dancing, Sierra is a force to be reckoned with, and this video hits every single mark.
31:57I can do it, I can do it strong, I can do it whenever or however you want.
32:05As she explained, it's meant to feel very personal.
32:07So alongside director Diane Martell, they forewent the, quote, smoke and mirrors,
32:12so that audiences could focus on the star and her killer dance moves instead.
32:16Choreographer Jamaica Craft also noted that they were inspired by male exotic dancing.
32:20I love the way I ride it.
32:23I love the way you ride the beat, baby.
32:27I love it, looter!
32:29It's quite sensual and seductive, and each isolation feels almost hypnotic.
32:33Apparently, though, her moves were just too much for BET, who controversially refused to air the video at the time.
32:42Number 16, Formation, Beyoncé.
32:45In 2016, Beyoncé surprised us all by dropping this epic music video ahead of her Super Bowl performance.
32:51It was one of her most politically charged narratives, chronicling the struggles of black communities.
33:04However, the key message was one of empowerment, especially for black women.
33:08Set but not filmed in New Orleans and directed by Melina Matsoukas, the video's amazingly powerful moves have a somewhat
33:14militant style.
33:15I'm so reckless when I rock my Givenchy dress.
33:19I'm so possessive, so I rock his rock necklaces.
33:23Every step is strong and defined, really hammering in the song's message.
33:27Beyoncé snagged eight VMAs that year, including the Video of the Year Award for Formation.
33:32She became the record holder for most Moon Person wins of all time that night, and it's certainly well deserved.
33:38Okay, ladies, now let's get information.
33:42You know you that b**** when you cause all this conversation.
33:46Number 15, Uptown Funk, Mark Ronson featuring Bruno Mars.
33:50SB is the brains behind the iconic moves in this multi-award-nominated old-school music video.
33:56Describing the track, he said, quote,
33:58It's not too trendy, it's feel-good, and it's just a funky song.
34:02Stylin', violin, livin' it up in the city, got chucks on with Saint Laurent,
34:07Gotta kiss myself, I'm so pretty.
34:09That's exactly the vibe we get from his choreo, too.
34:12Surpassing five billion views, Uptown Funk is currently one of the most watched videos on YouTube.
34:23Taking inspiration from the 70s and 80s, the dance is groovy,
34:27featuring moves that pretty much anyone can pick up,
34:30and its catchy rhythm practically begs listeners to join in on the fun.
34:37Well, it's Saturday night and we in the spot, don't believe it, just watch.
34:41Number 14, If, Janet Jackson.
34:45Created by legendary choreographer Tina Landon,
34:48the dance-heavy If is arguably one of Jackson's best music videos.
34:51It allowed the singer to explore female sexuality and liberation in a way that she hadn't before.
34:56Sittin' all the years, they're running low hands,
34:58with a lust in my heart, sure I don't live again.
35:00Still, this was classic Janet, with an enthralling performance full of challenging choreography.
35:06And as always, she made it look easy.
35:17She also released an all-dance version for those who found the original a little too steamy.
35:22The icon has influenced many contemporary artists,
35:24who often reference the If video in their own works.
35:27It was truly a groundbreaking piece of media, and we're still seeing its impact today.
35:32If I was your woman, the things I do to you, but I'm not.
35:37Number 13, Try, Pink.
35:40Pink's performances are often daring, but this one is a cut above the rest.
35:44Dancing with Colt Prattus, the duo tell a rather intense love story in this video.
35:49Why do we fall in love so easy, even when it's not right?
35:57The Golden Boys, who were behind the routine, took cues from the French Apache dance,
36:02which combines acrobatics with aggressive movements.
36:05They also collaborated with stunt and fight coordinator Sebastian Stella
36:08to bring each part of the music video together cohesively.
36:11The choreography is passionate and incredibly risque,
36:14yet there's a hint of sadness woven in throughout.
36:17But just because it burns up and me you're gonna die,
36:21you gotta get up and try, try, try.
36:26The singer has called it her quote,
36:28favorite video ever, and we'd have to agree.
36:31You gotta get up and try, try, try.
36:35Number 12, Oops I Did It Again, Britney Spears.
36:38While we could have included any number of Britney's iconic music videos,
36:42we just couldn't leave out the red jumpsuit.
36:44Premiering on MTV's Making the Video in 2000,
36:48Oops I Did It Again includes all the hallmarks of a Britney Spears video.
36:51Great set design, great costume design,
36:54and most importantly, well choreographed dance numbers.
36:57Oops I did it again, I'll play with your heart, got lost in the game.
37:05From dancing on the surface of Mars to performing while lying down,
37:09we were trying to keep up with her.
37:11It's not a surprise that this was nominated in four different categories
37:14at the MTV Video Music Awards.
37:16It's also set the standard for pop music video choreography for the new millennium.
37:21Not that innocent.
37:24Number 11, Cold Hearted, Paula Abdul.
37:27Paula Abdul taught us quote,
37:29I take two steps forward, I take two steps back.
37:32Two steps forward, I take two steps back.
37:35For opposites to attract.
37:36However, we'd be remiss if we didn't talk about the masterpiece that is cold hearted.
37:40A long time fan of Bob Fosse, Abdul was inspired by the uniqueness,
37:44intricacy, and highly stylized movements of all that jazz.
37:48The performer has countless amazing dance routines, but this is arguably one of her finest.
38:01The cold hearted music video, which was directed by David Fincher,
38:05strikes the perfect balance between artistry and sensuality.
38:08It's safe to say that it would have made Fosse proud.
38:14The choreography is detailed to the point of being practically hypnotic.
38:18In fact, it almost stops us from wondering who Abdul is singing about here.
38:22Which is no small feat.
38:32The Backstreet Boys were back.
38:37Next on our list is the horror parody music video that proved the Backstreet Boys were here to stay.
38:51Everybody, directed by Joseph Kahn, was similar in style to Michael Jackson's Thriller,
38:56and it showed in the choreography.
38:58Group dance numbers, stiff, rigid movements, and some very familiar dance moves,
39:03of course with the boy's own style woven into it.
39:05Throw in some goofy horror characters and themes,
39:08and the result is one of the most memorable music videos from the 90s.
39:11Number 9, Bad Romance, Lady Gaga.
39:15Next on our list is the winner of the 2010 MTV Music Award for Best Choreography, Bad Romance.
39:20This award was well deserved,
39:22and Gaga's dance moves were compared to pop royalty like Michael Jackson and Madonna.
39:34Despite resembling music videos of pop icons past,
39:38Gaga's video is unique in its own right,
39:40showcasing her weirdness through outfits, set design, and hypersexual choreography.
39:45Her own artistic style, combined with the dance design by Laurieann Gibson, created a quirky,
39:50yet mesmerizing world.
39:52So much so that some felt it needed to be turned into a feature-length film.
39:55Bad Romance was, at one time, the most viewed video on YouTube.
39:59Number 8, Smooth Criminal, Michael Jackson.
40:02The King of Pop practically reinvented dance videos, and created countless signature moves in the process.
40:08Indeed, how do you single just one out when Beated and Remember the Time are among his genre-defining videography?
40:22However, we chose Smooth Criminal for this spot because it shows him at his peak.
40:30Inspired by Fred Astaire's works, storytelling and movement collide perfectly in this music video.
40:36Jackson collaborated with Shalimar's Jeffrey Daniel and dancer Vincent Patterson,
40:40who reportedly thought up the iconic 45-degree lean illusion.
40:43It was a huge production that required lots of time and effort,
40:47but considering its immense success, we'd say it was worth it.
40:58The critically acclaimed video is utterly legendary,
41:00and still holds up as one of the best we've seen all these years later.
41:04You've been hit by a smooth criminal.
41:07Number 7, You Can't Touch This, MC Hammer.
41:11Stop. Hammer time.
41:12Stop. It's hammer time.
41:14Of course, we couldn't leave out MC Hammer's signature hit.
41:17What do you get when you combine a catchy song with 90s dance moves and hammer pants?
41:22A fast-paced, fun music video.
41:24You can't touch this.
41:26Look, man. You can't touch this.
41:28Becoming a massive pop hit, You Can't Touch This won multiple MTV Video Music Awards,
41:33and it's not hard to understand why.
41:38The choreography isn't fancy by any means, but it's incredibly easy to dance to.
41:44Who doesn't have the urge to do the running man or the hammer dance after putting it on?
41:48At the very least, you have to admire the speed of MC Hammer's dance moves.
41:52Number 6, Lose Control, Missy Elliott.
41:55Moving on to one of the most energetic music videos on our list,
41:58Lose Control by Missy Elliott is a great example of an irresistibly danceable video.
42:03As Elliott and her crew transition from one dance party to the next,
42:07the choreography switches smoothly from crunking to swing dance to dance hall to freestyle.
42:17However, despite the numerous style changes, the dancing never loses steam.
42:22Mix in the amazing high-paced dancing with a great song and set design,
42:25and it's clear why the video won a Grammy for best short for a music video.
42:29Music make you lose control.
42:31Number 5, Are You That Somebody, Aaliyah.
42:34Can you even talk about music video choreography without mentioning Aaliyah?
42:38From more than a woman to try again, she always brought her A-game every single time.
42:44Dust yourself off and try again.
42:46You can dust it off and try again.
42:48Aaliyah just had this unique way of expressing herself through dance.
42:51Nowhere is this more evident than in her music video for Are You That Somebody?
42:55I've been holding back this same group on you.
42:59I probably shouldn't tell it if I...
43:02She just made Fatima Robinson's choreography come alive.
43:05She knew how to put feeling into every step, whether it was smooth and seductive or full of attitude.
43:11I know, I know, I know.
43:13Say yes or say no.
43:16It's time to get somebody, tell me all about somebody.
43:18Also, when it comes to versatility, she could do it all, from hip-hop to flamenco.
43:24This music video really showed off her incredible talent and took her to a whole new level of stardom.
43:35Number 4, Vogue, Madonna.
43:37Madonna made voguing mainstream, but it was already a popular dance style among the house ballroom community in Harlem,
43:43which is composed of LGBTQIA plus people of color.
43:54As a frequenter of New York nightclubs, she was mesmerized by the highly stylized dance.
43:59So she began collaborating with Jose Gutierrez and Luis of the House of Extravaganza,
44:03and the choreography for the song began to take shape.
44:15This music video, filmed in a black-and-white Art Deco style, sees the singer and her dancer's striking poses
44:21and voguing.
44:22She certainly didn't originate the technique, but she did get the rest of the world to follow her lead.
44:26It's easy to understand why MTV named Vogue one of the 100 greatest music videos ever made in 1999.
44:39Number 3, Single Ladies.
44:41Put a ring on it.
44:42Beyonce.
44:43While Run the World Girls was in the running,
44:45we have to include one of the most recognizable music videos of the millennium so far.
44:54Creating a pop culture phenomenon in 2008,
44:57Beyonce's Single Ladies has some of the simplest yet most iconic choreography in any modern music video.
45:03Choreographed by Frank Gatson and Jaquel Knight,
45:06the video was modeled from a dance member called
45:07Mexican Breakfast from the Ed Sullivan Show,
45:10while also mixing in the southern dance style of J-Setting.
45:13If you like it, then you should've put a ring on it. If you like it, then you should've put
45:17a ring on it.
45:18Beyoncé reportedly wanted to include choreography that could be attempted by anyone, and it was,
45:24spawning a dance craze that inspired thousands of imitations worldwide.
45:28Number 2. Rhythm Nation. Janet Jackson.
45:31Next on our list, we'll be looking at the final music video that made up the long-form Rhythm Nation
45:351814 film.
45:45Choreographed by Anthony Thomas, the music video was praised.
45:48Some saying that it set the template for hundreds of more videos in the decade that followed.
45:53The dancing pairs nicely with the military aesthetic of the video,
45:56as well as the concepts of equality and unity mentioned in the song.
45:59Most critics claim this was the video that cemented Jackson's reputation for pushing the envelope in her music and choreography.
46:06No wonder it won the MTV Music Video Award for Best Choreography.
46:10Number 1. Thriller. Michael Jackson.
46:13Come on, how could this not be number 1?
46:16Arguably the most popular music video of all time.
46:22The choreography for Thriller had a huge effect on popular culture.
46:26Jackson's dance moves were copied and imitated all over the world, along with his look and style.
46:32It changed the music video industry forever, and has been copied again and again since release.
46:37Choreographed by Michael Peters, it went on to win an MTV Video Music Award for Best Choreography,
46:42along with three other MTV Music Video Awards and two Grammy Awards,
46:47all while becoming the most iconic music video in history.
46:54But which music video do you think has the greatest choreography of all time?
46:58Let us know in the comments below.
47:00Let us know in the comments below.
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