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Billy Ray Cyrus Gets Remixed: Music Video Roundup

Mara Hyman |
February 17, 2014 | 5:57 p.m. PST

Associate Entertainment Editor

Every other week, Editor Mara Hyman takes a look at the buzz-worthy short films coming from the music video universe. Here are her latest picks:

Buck 22 feat. Billy Ray Cyrus - "Achy Breaky 2"

In case you haven't yet seen this gem, you're not missing out. In a crazy twist, Miley's dad and rapper/producer Buck 22 have teamed up to remix Billy's one-hit wonder, "Achy Breaky Heart." Except this time, it's a hip-hop remix with verses added by Buck 22. The remix doesn't quite work, and frankly makes Billy appear desperate for a comeback.

The video shows a young Buck 22 and Billy being abducted by "aliens" which are essentially Miley clones, twerking during the song as Billy even makes a reference to "Wrecking Ball." Larry King even makes a cameo in the beginning, contributing to the confusing nature of the premise. It's certainly entertaining and already has over 6.5 million YouTube videos, but the thousands of "thumbs down" speak for themselves. What do you think about BRC's return?

U2 - "Invisible"

U2 is back! The song, which premiered in a Super Bowl ad with Bank of America, is classic U2. As the first single off of their upcoming album, "Invisible" is very keyboard driven and has an electronic rock anthem feel. We also get to hear Bono's dynamic vocals shine through on this song.

The video is a stylized concert performance all in black and white. It's not too original, but for a group like U2, the song speaks for itself. The video plays with lighting effects, a dynamic backdrop, and an excited crowd. Are you excited for U2's 13th album?

Avicii - "Addicted to You"

Coming off of the success of "Hey Brother," Avicii is back with a song featuring Audra Mae and her Adele-esque vocals. It's a soulful anthem with a slight jazzy flair about falling in love.

The music video is a mini-movie (my favorite) about a Bonnie and Clyde type of duo wreaking havoc everywhere, but instead the leads are two women who make out throughout the video. They rob a restaurant, a bank and more with guns out. The video is intense but carefree and lighthearted at the same time. Which is your favorite Avicii song off of his latest album "True?"

Rascal Flatts - "Rewind"


Rascal Flatts is making a comeback! Known for their hit song "Life is a Highway," the country band is back with a catchy tune about wanting to re-live a special night. This is the first single off of their ninth album.

The video has an interesting and very fitting concept. Essentially, a casette tape controls time in the video, and at the end the leading man is able to rewind to the beginning of the night. All the while, the band jams along to the song as people walk around them backwards. The scenes with the band were a bit repetitive, but the storyline involving the couple was interesting. Do you think the band has broken out of one-hit-wonder status?

Mariah Carey - "You're Mine (Eternal)"

Queen Mariah is here to stay! Recently she released her first single off of her album coming out May 6, and while it's pretty, it surprisingly doesn't sound catchy enough to be a first single. At the same time, it shows a more understated, less belting side of her vocals, which is refreshing.

The video was shot in Puerto Rico and shows Mariah underwater and laying by a rock near a waterfall. It's hard to tell whether she's going for the mermaid or stranded washed-ashore look, but it still works. These scenes are mixed with shots of a man (likely representing Nick Cannon) modeling at a photo shoot. It's a weird juxtaposition, but overall the video is very well shot. Are you still following Mariah's music?

Reach Associate Entertainment Editor Mara Hyman here.



 

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