Analysis of a Music Video

Single Ladies // Beyoncé

Conventions -

The black and white colour throughout the video gives an element of mystery. The stereotypical conventions of gender are shown through the use of outfit - leotards and heels. The dancing is an imperative convention in an RnB video. Having imagery that relates to the lyrics, for example at the end when Beyoncé points at the ring, shows symbolism.

Representation -

Beyoncé the singer is always the central focus making her the most important, with many close up shots of her.  

Audience -
The audience for this music video would most likely be teenage girls. Beyoncé is all about female empowerment so singing about 'single ladies' in a positive way is going to follow her views and attract the same audience. 

Institutions -

Released in 2008 on the album 'I am... Sasha Fierce' (Beyoncé's alter ego) the single was a massive hit. Its writer and producer Christopher "Tricky" Stewart won it three Grammy Awards in 2010.  

Demographic

In media demographic refers to the classifying of an audience into age, gender, race and other categories.In media, as in all business, demographics are used to pinpoint potential audience growth and to spot under performance. All forms of media are targeted to certain audiences.

For Example - 

Beyoncé - her album 4 suggests a mature audience, due to the aspect of nudity. It also suggests that Beyoncé is in control and powerful with the low angle shot looking up at her. The plain background makes her the main focus. This image could entice a male audience as theres a 'sexy' element to it. The target audience primarily for this album when looking at gender would most likely be females. Beyoncé's stance and facial expression suggests empowerment. 

Puff Daddy/P Diddy - his album Press Play shows his sophisticated side. A stereotypical convention of a rappers album would suggest gold chains, baggy clothing and half naked girls, this goes against this. His hard face pose suggests he is important and along with the suit shows he means 'bussiness'. The blue background is suggestive of a male audience. This album is street wise and suggests an audience for teens particularly males. 





My own cover would most likely be aimed at girls. The cover would most likely include an image of the main person. It would also include the name of the single and the artists name.