Video Killed the Radio Star...and Now It's On Our Phones

"Video Killed the Radio Star" was the first shot fired, and for a while, music videos were the main source of cool. I was a kid raised on the channel by an older sister. A sizable amount of pop culture happened between 1981-1995 on MTV. Landmark stuff. CMT was happening too, but despite the best efforts of folks like Reba and Garth, it never had the same cache. Johnny Cash's "Hurt" is the exception.

Videos are still cool and still a vital piece of an artist's content. However, it has transitioned online and to our phones via YouTube and TikTok.

The Texas/Red Dirt scene never has played by the rules, but when it has dabble in the video format, it hits hard and deep. Your favorite artists aren't creating flashy pop vehicles. They focus on live performance, clever spins and emotional gut punches.

Here are a few that left a mark.

Charlie Robison – El Cerrito Place A haunting visual companion to an already devastating track. The slow burn through loss and longing? You feel it frame by frame as Charlie stumbles through heartache in real time. Was she ever really there at all?

Ryan Bingham – Southside of Heaven A visual postcard from the edge of despair and hope. It matches the gravel in Bingham's voice. It set the dynamic for all that Bingham would become. He's always been a cowboy trying to find his way.

Drew Kennedy – Stars in California Drew Kennedy is a transplant to Texas who has embraced everything about the culture and imbedded himself as this generation's songwriter emeritus. He's particularly fond of the far west and the mountains and people that make that land work. This video was shot on a tour through far west Texas into Colorado and beyond. It's breathtaking.

Uncle Lucius – Keep the Wolves Away A true story from lead singer Kevin Galloway, masterfully told. Over 150 million views and counting. Factory grit, family sacrifice, and one of the most impactful videos and songs this scene has ever produced.

Randy Rogers Band – Break Itself Heartbreak under neon. The RRB is a machine. This video helmed by Johnny Chops and Galleywinter OG Brian Monone features a striking acting turn from RRB drummer Les Lawless. That RRB heartbreak feels extra real when you actually see it unfold.

Austin Meade & Koe Wetzel – Happier Alone A modern chaotic masterpiece. A trip to the skating rink gone awry. Country, metal, punk. Texas. A little unhinged in the best possible way.

Today we remember the launch of MTV, CMT, BET, VH1, Friday Night Videos. All of it. And we tip our hat to the Texas/Red Dirt artists who have used the medium to elevate their message.

What's your favorite video from a Texas/Red Dirt artist?