A Semiotic Analysis of Nonverbal Communication in the Music Video APT by ROSÉ and Bruno Mars

Abstract

Music videos serve as a communication medium that integrates visual and auditory elements to convey messages more profoundly. Nonverbal communication in music videos plays a vital role in constructing narratives, expressing emotions, and enriching the audience’s experience. This study analyzes the forms of nonverbal communication in the music video APT, performed by ROSÉ and Bruno Mars, with a specific focus on facial expressions, body movements, and spatial utilization. This research adopts a qualitative approach using visual content analysis to examine the nonverbal communication elements present in the video. Data were collected through in-depth observation and documentation. The findings reveal that the facial expressions of ROSÉ and Bruno Mars are strategically employed to emphasize the emotional content of the lyrics, while body movements and choreography reflect the musical dynamics and energy. Moreover, the use of space and background reinforces the visual narrative and supports the audience's interpretation of the song’s message. These findings confirm that nonverbal communication functions not merely as an aesthetic component in music videos but also plays a significant role in meaning-making. This study contributes to the discourse on nonverbal communication in audiovisual media and offers insights for the creative industry on optimizing visual elements to enhance the appeal and communicative effectiveness of music videos. This study uses Roland Barthes' semiotic theory to analyze the denotative and connotative meanings of nonverbal elements, adopting visual content analysis with a qualitative approach.