The year is 1999. It’s a Friday night and the radio is blasting a song that’s unlike anything you’ve heard before. The beat is smooth, the vocals are sultry, and the lyrics are a mix of sassy and sweet. You’re instantly captivated by the music and the video that brings an electrifying performance to your television screen. This is Kelis’s “Get Along With You” music video. It was this single that truly catapulted this singer’s career to superstardom, introducing her not only to the U.S. but to audiences around the globe.
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Looking back, this music video is more than just a visual accompaniment to a hit song. It’s a cultural touchstone, it reflects the fashion and attitude of the late ’90s, and it showcases Kelis’s early talent as a performer. It’s a video that still resonates today because of its timeless appeal and its ability to transport us back to a specific moment in time.
The Visual Landscape of Kelis’s “Get Along With You”
The video for Kelis’s “Get Along with You” is a visual feast. The song’s infectious rhythm is amplified by the use of vivid colors, bold costumes and the fast-paced editing that captures the urban energy that fueled late-1990s pop culture. The video opens with a series of quick cuts, showcasing Kelis moving through different spaces, each with their own distinct vibe. She is in an empty, industrial-style building, a brightly lit nightclub, and a darkened room with moody lighting – all of which contribute to the song’s underlying theme of a relationship on the edge.
The video also features a number of stylized close-up shots, highlighting Kelis’s distinctive facial expressions, and showcasing the unique combination of pop and R&B influences that made Kelis stand out from her contemporaries. Her makeup, hair, and outfits are carefully chosen to fit the mood and theme of each scene. This intentional use of color adds to the video’s overall impact, creating a tapestry of visual narratives that capture Kelis’s dynamic personality and the powerful message behind her music.
A Deeper Dive into the Cultural Significance of Kelis’s “Get Along with You”
Beyond the music, the “Get Along with You” video serves as a snapshot of the late ’90s culture. The video reflects the period’s fashion trends. The clothes – baggy jeans, oversized shirts and sneakers – were a signature look for the era. Kelis’s own outfits, which include a variety of colorful tops paired with denim, reflect the era’s street style and embrace the era’s fashion trends, helping to make the video relatable to a wider audience.
The video also captures the spirit of the times in its tone, which is both edgy and playful. The video is full of energy, with Kelis moving with a confidence that emanates through the screen. Her body language and overall performance are in sync with the song’s powerful message of staying true to yourself, and not compromising your values. This message, which reverberated through young audiences in the late ’90s, resonated with a younger generation that was coming of age during a period of societal change and an increasing desire for independence.
The Impact of Kelis’s “Get Along With You”
Beyond its cultural impact, “Get Along With You” had a direct impact on Kelis’s career. It was a major commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot R&B Singles Chart and the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play charts. It also helped to establish Kelis as a true musical force, a singer who was not afraid to experiment with different styles and sounds. This fearless approach to music, seen in the music video’s bold visuals and energetic performance, continues to be a cornerstone of Kelis’s musical journey today.
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The Power of Visual Storytelling in Music Videos
The “Get Along with You” music video is a powerful example of how music videos can enhance the impact of a song. Through its visuals, the ‘Get Along With You’ video tells a story, a story about a young woman who is finding her voice, and not afraid to stand up for herself. It’s a story that continues to resonate with audiences today, and it’s a testament to the power of storytelling through music and visuals.
Tips for Creating Music Videos that Resonate
The success of Kelis’s “Get Along With You” video, and its continued relevance today, can provide insights for music artists seeking to launch their own music videos. There are a couple of key pieces to consider for creating music videos that connect with audiences.
First, create a story. A great music video tells a story that complements the music, capturing the emotion and message of the song. Second, create visual appeal. The visuals should be eye-catching and memorable, adding another layer of engagement for viewers. If you’re a music artist or you’re working with an artist, consider using bold colors, interesting locations, creative editing techniques, and strong wardrobe choices that will all add to the impact of your video.
FAQ on Kelis’s “Get Along With You”
Who directed Kelis’s “Get Along With You” video?
The “Get Along With You” music video was directed by Hype Williams. Williams is a well-known music video director, known for his distinctive style and use of innovative visual effects.
What was the song’s impact in the U.S. charts?
“Get Along With You” reached number one on the Billboard Hot R&B Singles Chart and the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play charts. It also peaked at number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100.
What was the album that “Get Along With You” comes from?
The “Get Along With You” single was released in 1999 and appeared on Kelis’s debut album titled “Kaleidoscope”.
Kelis Get Along With You Video
In Conclusion: Kelis’s “Get Along With You” – A Video for the Ages
Kelis’s “Get Along With You” music video is more than just a visual representation of a popular song. It’s a cultural touchstone and a powerful testament to the lasting impact of music videos.
Are you a fan of Kelis’s “Get Along with You” video? Tell us your thoughts on this iconic music video in the comments.
