Music videos have long been a wildly creative medium. And some of the most striking among them are brought together by the “Best Music Video” nominations for the Grammy Awards every year.

The shortlist for the 2018 awards lives up to the expectations. Take Jay-Z’s subversive video (above) for The Story of OJ. The brilliant video is a retro-cartoon-style animation that portrays the racial stereotypes seen in children’s cartoons and books before politically correct times. Not only is it accompanied by a stellar track, which has also been nominated in multiple other categories include “Best Song”, but the poignant lyrics are also succinctly and engagingly captured in the video.

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Then there is the intriguing video for Beck’s Up All Night. The catchy song is accompanied by an equally upbeat video that shows a young woman in armour – a feisty role model as she battles at what can only be a frat party.

One of the best things about the music video category is it often includes lesser known acts. The French musician – and recently discovered music sensation – Jain is one such musician to benefit from this category. Not only has she become an underground hit this year, but the Grammy committee has also recognised the visual quality of the music video for Makeba, the track that won her fame. The video combines rich African culture and choreography with visual illusions to culminate in a mesmerising, dance-worthy video.

Kendrick Lamar has established himself as a strong, steady contender for the Grammys year after year. Everything about the rapper’s music career is award-worthy – the subversive rap, the powerful, stunning videos, and the catchy yet experimental music. Humble was no different – fresh and hard-hitting as always, with stunning visual effects.

The fifth nomination in the category is perhaps the most poignant and touching of the lot. Politically relevant and emotionally charged, Logic’s 1-800-273-8255 is a powerful message for suicide prevention and an ode to the stigma on the LGBTQ community.