So your new track is ready. Maybe you just bounced it out of your DAW, or maybe it’s been sitting in your Dropbox for a week while you overthink your release plan.
Either way — you know one thing: You can’t just drop an audio file and expect people to care.
These days, people don’t just want to hear music. They want to see it too. Especially on YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and even Spotify with those 8-second looping clips.
That’s where visual formats like lyric videos, visualizers, and music videos come in. But which one is right for you?
Let’s break it down in plain language — no hype, no fancy jargon. Just real talk from someone who works with artists every day.
Lyric Videos: Let Your Words Shine
A lyric video is exactly what it sounds like — a video that displays your lyrics in sync with your music. But don’t let the simplicity fool you. When done right, a lyric video can feel just as powerful as a full-blown video.
I’ve worked with rappers, singer-songwriters, and music artists who got more engagement from their lyric videos than their official music videos. Why? Because people love reading along. It helps them get the message. And it keeps them watching.
Pros:
Lyrics front and center. Helps the listener connect emotionally.
More engaging than just audio. Great for YouTube or social posts.
Can match your vibe. Fonts, animations, colors — all customizable.
Affordable. Most cost between $80–$150 (custom work may be more).
Example:
You’ve got a song with deep lyrics, or maybe a powerful chorus people will want to sing along with. A lyric video is perfect. It works especially well if you want your audience to remember the words and share them.
Tip:
Make sure your lyrics are typo-free before starting. You’d be surprised how many times artists catch little mistakes after the video’s done.
Visualizers: Set the Mood
Music visualizers are more about the vibe. No lyrics. No storyline. Just motion, atmosphere, and art.
They’re usually short, looping animations or videos that match the tempo or energy of your song. You’ve probably seen these on Spotify Canvas or YouTube — think glowing shapes, retro TVs, cassette animations, spinning records, or dreamy abstract patterns.
Pros:
Instant vibe. Perfect for instrumental or chill tracks.
Great for Spotify Canvas and social media snippets.
Fast and budget-friendly. Often around $20–$50 depending on complexity.
Example:
You’re dropping a beat or an instrumental track. Or maybe you just want something minimal and stylish. A visualizer gives your music a professional look without needing a big production budget.
Tip:
Use your cover art as the base for your visualizer. It creates brand consistency across your platforms, which helps with recognition.
Music Videos: Go Big or Go Home
We all know what a music video is. But let’s be real — it’s not always the easiest option.
A good music video takes time, money, planning, and often a whole team. But when it works? It really works. If you’ve got a concept, a face you want the world to see, or a song you believe can blow up — this might be the way.
Pros:
Memorable. A strong video can stick with people and get shared more.
Great for ads. You can clip it up and use parts for TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube Shorts.
Personal connection. Seeing the artist adds a layer of trust and authenticity.
Good for building your brand.
Example:
You’ve got a lead single you’re promoting heavily. Maybe you’re launching an album or EP. Or you want something cinematic that tells a story. This is when it makes sense to invest.
Cost Tip:
Expect to spend at least $500–$2,000, depending on who you hire, where you shoot, and how complex the editing is. You can DIY it with a good phone and smart editing — but even that takes time and planning.
Still Not Sure? Here’s a Simple Flow
Ask yourself:
Do I want people to focus on the lyrics? → Go with a lyric video
Do I want a simple, stylish vibe? → Try a visualizer
Do I want to show my face or tell a story? → Invest in a music video
And here’s an extra tip:
You don’t have to pick just one.
Lots of artists release a visualizer or lyric video first, then drop the music video later — once the song starts getting some traction. It builds momentum and gives you more content to post.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, it’s not about which one is “better.” It’s about what fits your goals, your style, and your current budget.
Some of the best-performing videos I’ve seen were simple lyric videos that just nailed the timing and feel. And I’ve also seen artists waste a ton of money on music videos that didn’t connect with anyone.
Here’s what I recommend: Start where you are. Use what you have. Make something you’d enjoy watching yourself. Because if you wouldn’t share it… no one else will.
Need help making a lyric video, visualizer, or figuring out what’s best for your next release? I do this stuff every day. Feel free to reach out and let’s make your music look as good as it sounds.
