Dyer's 'Star Image'

In order to prepare for my prelim task of creating a music video, I began to analyse and break down the elements of other well-known music videos. I studied the theorist Richard Dyer's views on what creates an artist's unique image in the first place, and from there began to analyse particular videos by certain artists whose image has changed and adapted to the different generations.

Richard Dyer

The theorist, Richard Dyer, believes that artists must create a 'star image' of themselves. Dyer thinks that artists are constructed, artificial images which keeps the stars' image consistent and interesting. However, the artists' appearance is not a real person. Dyer believes this idea helps to create a USP which appeals to the audience. 

I looked at Madonna's music video 'Like A Prayer' and analysed her 'star image'. In this video she subtly puts forward a sexual image - an exposing cleavage is shown and we see some revealing bra straps hanging off her shoulders. However, the video clearly has some religious elements to it with controversial images of a black Jesus, shots of crosses etc. Madonna additionally has a sense of innocence about her as she wears a cross around her neck.

Madonna has constantly been changing her 'star image' to keep her a diverse and successful artist. Throughout her career she has gone for various different styles both musically and stylistically. For example, the pictures below display a variety of star image constructions Madonna has covered through her career. She has managed to adapt her style to the 'latest trend' in each generation.

When Madonna first began her career she had a unique image. When her single 'Holiday' was released, her image displayed a young, rebellious teenager with a punk feel. Madonna's image then grew and became more sexually appealing.

The music video to 'Holiday' by Madonna displays her carefree attitude of the 70's. 

Additionally take Madonna's 'Hung Up'. Notice how her star image has changed dramatically. Her clothes are much more revealing and her attitude too is more sexual. Also notice what kind of close-up shots the director has chosen to use and where - there is a lot of focus on Madonna's  body and her suggesting dance moves. Whereas 'Holiday' displays a much more open 'don't care' attitude.

From Dyer's views, I have taken into account that it is vital to know what kind of image the band I will be shooting with are going for. If they are going to be, for example, an aggressive, heavy metal rock band, I will have to think about what kind of lighting I might want to use, what the stage set-up will be like...etc.