Lights, Camera, Edges: 25 Music Videos That Celebrate Iconic Black Hair
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From Janet’s poetic locs to Beyoncé’s floor-sweeping lemonade braids, our hair has been the crown jewel of some of the most memorable visuals in music history.
So, let’s press play on a playlist that celebrates Black hair in all its glory. Here are 25 music videos where the hair game was just as strong as the vocals. Grab your favorite product (like our Leave-In Conditioner for those edges or Braiding Gel for sleek styles) and let’s vibe through the decades of Black hair magic.
1. Janet Jackson - "Poetic Justice" (1993)
The box braids that sparked a movement. Janet’s look in this video set the standard for protective styles everywhere.
2. Beyoncé - "Formation" (2016)
Lemonade braids, afros, and baby hairs—this was a whole ode to Black hair, culture, and southern Black excellence.
3. Solange - "Cranes in the Sky" (2016)
Solange’s sleek styles and striking headpieces showed us the art in simplicity and the beauty in natural textures.
4. Missy Elliott - "Work It" (2002)
From finger waves to colorful wigs, Missy brought hair innovation to the forefront. She didn’t just work it—she slayed it.
5. Lauryn Hill - "Doo Wop (That Thing)" (1998)
Those locs. That glow. Lauryn gave us timeless natural beauty and a reminder to embrace our roots.
6. Rihanna - "We Found Love" (2011)
Rih’s blonde pixie cut became as iconic as the song. Minimal but bold, it was a statement in every frame.
7. TLC - "No Scrubs" (1999)
T-Boz’s blonde waves, Chilli’s sleek edges, and Left Eye’s bold choices? Hair goals for an entire generation.
8. Janelle Monáe - "Tightrope" (2010)
Janelle’s signature pompadour brought retro vibes into the modern era, proving that big hair energy is forever.
9. Destiny’s Child - "Survivor" (2001)
Wind-blown curls and braids made this video a tribute to strength and resilience. The drama was unmatched.
10. Erykah Badu - "Bag Lady" (2000)
Her wrapped locs and unapologetic soul made this video a love letter to Black hair versatility.
11. Brandy - "I Wanna Be Down" (1994)
Those classic microbraids had every girl asking their stylist for the Brandy look. A protective style that defined an era.
12. Nicki Minaj - "Super Bass" (2011)
Pink wigs, bold cuts, and fearless creativity. Nicki showed us that hair can be fun, funky, and a form of self-expression.
13. Diana Ross - "I’m Coming Out" (1980)
Diana’s voluminous curls were as legendary as her voice. This was big hair energy at its finest.
14. Usher - "U Got It Bad" (2001)
For the fellas, Usher’s waves were immaculate. Proof that grooming is just as much a vibe.
15. Bob Marley - "Is This Love" (1978)
The locs that inspired generations. Marley’s hair wasn’t just a style—it was a movement.
16. Whitney Houston - "I Wanna Dance with Somebody" (1987)
Whitney’s bouncy curls gave us life. Perfectly styled and full of joy, just like the legend herself.
17. Ciara - "Like a Boy" (2006)
From sleek ponytails to edgy braids, Ciara’s versatility in this video was unmatched. She truly embodied Black hair freedom.
18. Alicia Keys - "Fallin’" (2001)
Those cornrows were everything. Alicia brought the beauty of traditional styles into the mainstream.
19. Kendrick Lamar - "Alright" (2015)
From afros to fades, Kendrick’s video celebrated natural textures and Black resilience in every shot.
20. Megan Thee Stallion - "Hot Girl Summer" (2019)
Megan’s hair always serves. From long, flowing bundles to bold, colorful styles, she’s the definition of hair versatility.
21. Chloe x Halle - "Do It" (2020)
Loc queens represent! Chloe and Halle’s styles in this video showcased the beauty and adaptability of locs.
22. Prince - "When Doves Cry" (1984)
Prince’s iconic curls became a symbol of individuality and style, making waves in music and fashion.
23. Cardi B - "Money" (2018)
The gold headpiece, the wigs, the statement-making looks—Cardi brought luxury to Black hair in this visual.
24. Aaliyah - "Try Again" (2000)
Aaliyah’s sleek, straight hair with the side swoop became an iconic look for the 2000s. Effortless yet unforgettable.
25. SZA - "Good Days" (2020)
From curls to natural puffs, SZA’s carefree styles embody the beauty of embracing your natural hair.
Join the Movement. Love Your Hair.
At Grow Your Edges Back, we celebrate the artistry and culture of Black hair every single day. Want the best deals on products designed by Black hands for Black hair? Sign up for our email and SMS list today and get 20% off your first order. Because your hair deserves nothing less than iconic.