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For a music video to be considered truly great, it must possess the qualities that elevate it to an artistic work.

All too often, music videos simply consist of the lead singer of the band standing behind a microphone and singing. Occasionally, post-production will throw in some different backgrounds for effect. The concoctions can hardly be considered great videos, though.

While we don’t actually dislike these videos--and occasionally even enjoy them--they cannot be called great just because they are popular.

A good video should become an extension of the song and further its meaning through the visual medium.

Most importantly, it must keep the viewer interested. Some of the best videos manage to keep the audience watching even when there’s little interest in the song itself.

A great video must find the right spot between a completely literal interpretation of the lyrics and something that too closely resembles a concert video.

While the addition of graphic designs and artificially created settings can add value, technology should not be the focus of the video. Rather, it should blend into the entire setting and seem in place and “at home” in the video.

Very few videos have managed to be both popular and have artistic value. Some do strike the right balance, though, and should be remembered as truly great.

Here are what we consider the best five videos to date:

5. Peter Gabriel, “Steam”: This video contains magnificent computer graphics that create one of the most imaginative settings ever witnessed. It is a definite eye-catcher from beginning to end and breaks the mold when it comes to music videos.

4. Depeche Mode, “People Are People”: A song about people hating each other for no apparent reason. The video is set around a military ship and includes clips of footage from World War II, brilliantly illustrating the song’s point.

3. Duran Duran, “Wild Boys”: A video that displays an accurate picture of the people described in the song lyrics. And an almost frightening look at what listeners rarely take the time to visualize.

2. Dire Straits, “Money for Nothing”: An incredible display of computer animation makes this video a sight to behold, even if the song doesn’t hold as much interest. This video was indeed well ahead of its time.

1. Pet Shop Boys, “Suburbia”: A video that truly captures the essence of the song! The setting is just right, and the lyrics and scenery blend impressively to embody the elements of a truly great music video.