Today’s video of the day is Nine Inch Nails – “Only” released in 2005.
"Only" is a song by Nine Inch Nails, released in 2005. It is the second single from With Teeth, the band’s fourth studio album. The track blends industrial rock with electronic elements, creating a rhythmic and hypnotic sound. It topped the Billboard Modern Rock chart for seven weeks and became a hit in the UK. Trent Reznor wrote "Only" as a reflection on the music industry. He struggled with the balance between artistic integrity and commercial success. The lyrics express frustration but also a sense of self-awareness. The song’s pulsing beat and sharp synths make it stand out on With Teeth.
The album marked a turning point for Nine Inch Nails. After the dark, layered production of The Fragile, Reznor stripped things down. With Teeth focused on tighter song structures and more direct lyrics. It featured hits like "The Hand That Feeds" and "Every Day Is Exactly the Same." The sound was raw yet polished, blending rock and electronic influences.
The music video for "Only" was directed by David Fincher. It uses CGI to create a surreal office setting. A pinscreen on a desk displays Reznor’s face, shifting with the music. Other objects, like a Newton’s Cradle and a laptop screensaver, move in sync with the beat. Fincher’s minimalistic approach makes the visuals unique and immersive.
Nine Inch Nails has always pushed boundaries with music videos. Earlier works like "Closer" and "Hurt" had dark, haunting visuals. "Only" took a different route, using technology to create something striking yet simple. The song remains a fan favorite. It showcases Reznor’s ability to evolve while staying true to his sound. With Teeth bridged the gap between the experimental nature of The Fragile and the aggressive energy of Year Zero. "Only" stands as a defining track of that era.
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