Whether or not music tells a story has been quite the topic of debate in class and on the blog. However, assuming that music with words can indeed be considered narrative (which I think at this point, it is safe to assume), a natural question comes to light.
What of music videos? Can they be considered part of the same narrative text? Are they paratext? Are they essential parts of the narrative text without which the story of the song isn't complete? Sure, some videos simply add to the song, extending the song's narrative, and illustrating what was previously only words, but then there are songs that take on an entirely different meaning when viewed with the video. Occasionally, one might even encounter a music video that has absolutely nothing to do (or very little to do) with the song.
In the first vein:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u4-aUiddpUo
The Kid's Aren't Alright, by Offspring. The song is about Urban Decay, and it's pretty clear from the video.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AuK2A1ZqoWs
Handlebars, by Flobots. The video follows the words image by image.
In the second vein, there are a couple: Read more . . .
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VF2lJ5VtQbs
