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Shakira And Rihanna Team Up: Music Video Roundup

Mara Hyman |
February 3, 2014 | 12:57 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:

Shakira feat. Rihanna - "Can't Remember to Forget You"

Shakira is back! Known for "Hips Don't Lie" and her recent judging gig on NBC's "The Voice," she is back with a single off of her upcoming album which is, well...not that original. While extremely catchy, this is certainly not the first song addressing unhealthy relationships, and her voice is decent per usual. The real stand-out is her decision to partner up with Rihanna, whose voice fits the feel of the song really well.

The music video feels very reminiscent, almost copy-cat in some ways, of Shakira's duet and video with Beyonce years back for "Beautiful Liar." The two shake their hips against a wall, writhe around on a chair and smoke cigars together. They cozy up together and almost kiss at one point as well. Overall the video is very steamy and highlights Shakira's hips...and they don't lie. Do you prefer Shakira's duet with Rihanna or Beyonce?

Jennifer Lopez - "Same Girl"

In time for JLo's return to the judges' table of "American Idol" for Season 13, the single and video for "Same Girl" were recently reeleased. It's nice to see her going solo on a song again following a trail of hit songs with Pitbull. While it stays on the same few notes and doesn't highlight JLo's vocal ability, it has a similar vibe to her own "Jenny on the Block" in terms of theme. There is also a strong violin influence in the background which is an interesting choice.

The video takes us back to her roots in the Bronx, New York, where she's seen riding the subway, chilling on a stairwell and jamming out with locals on the streets. It has a strong urban feel, and JLo's NY Yankees hat completes it. The video also makes it hard to believe that she is 44, because she has a very fresh look. It's not too original, but it's nice to see where Jennifer came from and how it's still a big part of her identity. Are you a fan of the new song?

One Direction - "Midnight Memories"

As the title song on the boy band's sophomore album, "Midnight Memories" is an anthemic single about living in the moment and, literally, creating midnight memories. The song has a slight alternative rock feel with Harry's voice standing out the most. Their sound has matured slightly since their "What Makes You Beautiful" days, and this album is proving to be much less cheesy.

The video shows the boys escaping a bad party to have fun and break the law. We see them galavanting around London late at night, eating kebabs and hanging out with old ladies in scooters. The video is pretty strange, but it looks like they had a lot of fun making it. The song and video have a similar feel to The Wanted's "We Own the Night." Do you think One Direction is improving for the better?

Pentatonix - "Run to You"

The a cappella group is gaining quick popularity with over 4.7 million subscribers on YouTube. As one of the few original songs from "PTX Vol. 2," "Run to You" is a slow, five-part harmony ecompassing each member seamlessly (yes, even Kevin the beatboxer sings!). They take their time with the song without a hard, distinct beat, and it has a similar vibe as Imogen Heap's "Hide and Seek." It's a sad, vulnerable song about a dying relationship, which is refreshing for a group who does primarily upbeat covers.

The video has a simple concept, which is perfect because the song speaks for itself. The five of them sit in a dimly lit room with spotlights behind them, as the camera continually fades to a different person looking off into the distance. Pieces of paper float down all around them until the first chorus, when it flies upward the rest of the song - a strange but interesting effect. This is also PTX's first music video for an original song. Are you hoping for more originals on their channel?

Justin Bieber - "Confident"

Whoever thought it would be good timing to release a Bieber music video following two recent arrests made a poor move. The song, which has a strong R&B, Chris Brown vibe, is a bit repetitive and includes a strange collaboration with Chance the Rapper. Perhaps this song release is meant to show Bieber's focus on his music career.

The video includes an intricate dance sequence with bright yellow lights. It also follows the story of Justin trying to pursue a girl in a convenience store, where he tries but fails to get her number. Also highlighted is Justin's emerging mustache, which is perhaps his attempt to enter manhood. What do you think about the timely music video release?

Reach Associate Entertainment Editor Mara Hyman here.



 

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