Creating music video compilations might sound easy, right?
Just throw some clips together, add songs, and boom—you’re done.
But no, not really.
If you want your compilations to actually attract new audiences, there’s more to it. You’ve got to make them engaging, relatable, and, most importantly, something people want to share.
Here’s how to do it—flaws and all.
Pick a Theme (Seriously, Don’t Skip This)
Okay, so the first step: a theme. Without one, your compilation’s just a messy mix of random stuff. Think of it like a story. Are you going for a “best love songs of the 2000s” vibe? Or maybe “party anthems to hype you up”? People need a reason to click.
Take those “MTV throwbacks.” Remember them? They’d stick to themes like “Top 10 Summer Hits,” and it worked. Because it made sense.
Choose Songs People Actually Like
It’s not about you. Sorry. Sure, you might love that obscure indie track, but if no one else connects with it, what’s the point? Think about your audience. If they’re into pop, lean into current chart-toppers. If you’re targeting hip-hop heads, go for a mix of classics and trending beats.
Look at AlexRainbirdMusic on YouTube. The guy curate’s monthly compilations of indie tunes people love discovering. That’s why they keep coming back.
Make It Pretty—But Not Too Fancy
Let’s talk visuals. People expect more than just random clips. Use a mix of concert footage, lyric overlays, or even fan-made content. But don’t overdo it with crazy effects. Keep it real. Clean but not sterile.
Think about those Chill Nation music videos. The audio wave visuals? Simple yet mesmerizing. You don’t need a Hollywood budget to make something people can’t stop watching.
Transitions Matter More Than You Think
Nobody wants to feel like they just slammed into the next clip. Smooth transitions, my friend. Use fades, cuts that match the beat, or even quick visual tricks. Whatever keeps the flow alive.
Ever seen DJ Earworm’s mashups? The way the songs and visuals blend—it’s seamless. That’s the goal.
Let People Know What They’re Hearing
Okay, this part is weirdly overlooked. Add text. Like, literally, on the screen. The artist’s name and song title. You’d think it’s obvious, but many forget this. And guess what? People get annoyed when they don’t know what they’re listening to.
Vevo’s “DSCVR” series? Perfect example. Clear details, right where they should be.
Platform Matters (Yes, It Does)
Don’t post the same thing everywhere. TikTok loves short, snappy clips. YouTube’s the place for full-length compilations. Instagram? Kind of in-between.
Look at NoCopyrightSounds (NCS). They nail YouTube with long mixes, but they keep Instagram posts punchy and engaging. They know their audience.
Talk to Your Audience
You can’t just drop a video and peace out. Read comments, reply, and ask questions. Build a connection. That’s how you get people to stick around.
Chillhop Music does this well. They even ask fans to submit artwork or suggest tracks. Makes people feel involved, you know?
Keep It Shareable
If your compilation feels like an inside joke nobody gets, nobody shares it. Relatable content wins. Stuff that’s funny, nostalgic, or just cool.
Remember those Carpool Karaoke clips? People shared them like crazy. They were funny, light, and had big-name celebs. Instant win.
Learn From What Works (or Fails)
Let’s be honest; not everything will blow up. Some compilations? They’ll flop. Check your stats—views, watch time, likes. If people drop off after the first minute, figure out why.
Say your “Top EDM Tracks” video did better than your “Sad Acoustic Songs” one. Cool. Lean into that. You’re learning.
Final Thought: Just Go For It
At the end of the day, don’t overthink it. Start somewhere. Experiment. Be messy. People don’t want perfect—they want authentic. And hey, even if your first attempt isn’t a hit, keep at it. You’ll figure out what works.
And who knows? Maybe your compilation will be the next viral thing people can’t stop sharing.