Creating Music Visuals for Emerging Artists

Over the last decade, music video production has gone through some major changes. The rise of streaming platforms, high-quality cameras that don’t break the bank, and advances in 3D animation and AI have completely reshaped how artists and directors create visuals. What used to be all about big-budget productions for MTV has now evolved into a space where independent artists can produce stunning visuals with minimal resources, thanks to tools like Blender, Unreal Engine, and AI effects. We’ve also seen a rise in DIY aesthetics, virtual production, and interactive storytelling, showing that music videos are no longer just promotional tools - they’ve become immersive experiences.

Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels have changed how we consume music, shifting the focus from full albums to viral, bite-sized moments. Now, catchy hooks and standout lyrics matter more than ever as artists craft songs with 15-second clips in mind. A single viral soundbite can take a song from nowhere to global success - just look at tracks like "Supalonely" by BENEE ft. Gus Dapperton or "Baby My Phone" by virtual artist Yameii Online. This shift has also impacted how artists market their music, with many teasing unreleased tracks or creating fan-driven trends to boost engagement. In today’s world, where scrolling defines discovery, a song’s success isn’t just about radio airplay or streaming numbers - it’s all about how shareable it is.

To keep viewers engaged in this fast-scrolling world, many videos now incorporate loop-able elements or hypnotic CGI. Take Doja Cat’s “Need to Know” (2021), for example, where a neon-lit, cyberpunk-inspired 3D world captivates the viewer. Similarly, Travis Scott’s “HIGHEST IN THE ROOM” (2019) features dreamlike CGI sequences that blend reality with fantasy, making the visuals unpredictable and exciting.

Understanding these trends is crucial to my current project. With Willow Star's soulful pop-R&B sound, I've used bold, stylized 3D elements to enhance her unique artistic identity while keeping viewers hooked. Striking visuals—like surreal liminal spaces, glossy textures, and fluid chrome animations—can create a luxurious, dreamlike aesthetic that matches her brand. Plus, breaking the video into short, loop-able clips will help maximize its viral potential on platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels. By combining cinematic storytelling with mesmerizing CGI, I can craft a visually addictive experience that not only complements Willow’s music but also helps amplify her reach and presence in the industry. See some recent renders from the development or click here to view the full project.