Breakaway (1966)

Toni Basil‘s song Breakaway, released in 1966 as the B-side of her first single, became a cult hit thanks to the accompanying short film of the same name, directed by experimental artist Bruce Conner. The song, with its lively rhythm and pop character, was made unique by an innovative and unconventional video, considered one of the first true precursors of the modern music video. The film, shot in black and white and featuring fast editing and strobe effects, shows Toni Basil dancing freely and sensually, even performing totally naked in the uncensored version. This radical choice, in stark contrast to the standards of the time, helped to make the video clip a work that was as provocative as it was revolutionary, and is still remembered today as a milestone in the encounter between pop music and visual art.