When Bands Go Viral

Image credit: Stereogum

The Viral Video is the way to go when it comes to marketing. Like the name implies, it’s infectious—when done right, these clever little videos will stick in your mind long after you bought whatever it was that it was advertising.

One of the first Viral Videos appeared in the 90s. The infamous, ever-creepy “Dancing Baby” video was released to advertise 3D software. This clip, that was undoubtedly played with Windows Media Player on countless living room PCs, is still referenced today, having made its way into modern culture via TV shows (Family Guy, The Simpsons) and video games (Silent Hill, Zoo Tycoon). It’s also probably still circulating in some office chain mail.

Musicians have hopped on the viral bandwagon as a smart way to promote their latest releases. Putting out a fake advertisement with only a slight reference to what it’s actually for creates an irresistible air of intrigue. In honor of The Black Keys’ ad for ‘El Camino’, their new LP, here’s a look at some other memorable musical viral videos.