The 10 Coolest Air Jordan Appearances in Music Videos

Air Jordans and music videos go together like hip-hop and beats. Since the iconic sneakers debuted in 1984, they’ve become more than just athletic wear—they’re cultural symbols. Rappers, singers, and performers across genres have rocked Jordans in their music videos, each appearance adding to the shoe’s legendary status. Here’s a countdown of the 10 coolest, most memorable times Air Jordans stole the show on screen.

1. Michael Jackson in “Jam” (1992)
It doesn’t get much more iconic than Michael Jackson dancing with Michael Jordan himself! In the video for “Jam,” Jackson, the King of Pop, brings MJ onto the court for a bit of friendly competition. Not only do we get to see two legends in action, but we also get a close-up of both rocking some seriously stylish Air Jordans. The video showcased the Jordan 7s in a way only Michael Jackson could. Jordan 7s are rare now and if you manage to get your hands on a pair, you better make suer to wear Jordan crease protectors. The pair can resell for quite a large sum!

2. Drake in “Jumpman” (2015)
If a song called “Jumpman” doesn’t deserve a nod for coolest Jordan appearance, then what does? Drake and Future’s video for “Jumpman” is loaded with energy, sneaker culture, and, of course, Air Jordans. Throughout the video, Drake makes the Jordan 6 look like an essential part of his signature style. This video’s influence was so big it even brought “Jumpman” into everyday conversation for sneakerheads and music lovers alike.

3. Travis Scott in “SICKO MODE” (2018)
Travis Scott has brought back some of the rarest and most sought-after Air Jordans to date. In “SICKO MODE,” Scott rocks his own collaboration with Nike, the Air Jordan 4 in “Cactus Jack” blue, as well as the Travis Scott Air Jordan 1s. The video’s flashy visuals pair perfectly with the bold sneaker choices, making the Jordans an essential part of his aesthetic. Scott’s collaboration with Nike only cemented his status as a modern Jordan icon.

4. Run-D.M.C. in “My Adidas” (1986)
Sure, “My Adidas” may be all about Adidas, but it’s impossible to ignore the way this video sparked the sneaker culture that Jordans would later dominate. Run-D.M.C.’s groundbreaking video was one of the first times a hip-hop group put a specific sneaker brand front and center, paving the way for Air Jordans to take over the hip-hop world in the years to come. Jordans may not be featured here, but the influence is undeniable.

5. Nelly in “Air Force Ones” (2002)
Like “My Adidas,” Nelly’s “Air Force Ones” isn’t technically about Jordans—but it does highlight the growing obsession with sneakers in hip-hop culture. Nelly gave a nod to the Air Force 1, but he also made space for Air Jordans by showing just how much street cred sneakers could carry. His later videos would go on to feature Jordans, making this video a key moment in setting the stage for the Jordan movement.

6. Kanye West in “Stronger” (2007)
Before Kanye was designing his own shoes, he was rocking Jordans in his music videos. In “Stronger,” West wore the iconic Air Jordan 6 Infrareds, pairing them with futuristic styling that matched the video’s Daft Punk-inspired vibe. Kanye’s Jordan choice only elevated the cool factor of this video, cementing his role as a major sneaker influencer long before Yeezy was even a thought.

7. Eminem in “Berzerk” (2013)
In “Berzerk,” Eminem brings his love for classic hip-hop to the forefront, along with his love for Jordans. He’s seen wearing a pair of the Air Jordan 4 “Fire Reds,” a bold and instantly recognizable design. Eminem’s love for Air Jordans has been a constant, even leading him to create his own collaborations with the brand. This video showcases his style while keeping the Jordan brand alive and thriving in the modern rap scene.

8. A$AP Rocky in “Multiply” (2014)
A$AP Rocky has always had a unique style, combining high fashion with streetwear in a way that’s all his own. In “Multiply,” he pays homage to the sneaker game by sporting Air Jordans, giving a nod to the influence of the brand on the New York hip-hop scene. The video captures the raw, gritty energy of the streets, making the Jordans Rocky’s go-to accessory for blending fashion with urban culture.

9. Big Sean in “I Don’t F+++ With You” (2014)
In the “I Don’t F+++ With You” video, Big Sean makes a statement, both lyrically and sartorially, as he struts around the football field in the Air Jordan 3. The boldness of the song pairs perfectly with the iconic design of the Jordan 3s, making them stand out as much as the lyrics. It’s a moment that shows Jordans aren’t just accessories—they’re statements.

10. Ludacris in “Stand Up” (2003)
Ludacris’s “Stand Up” video is packed with wild visuals and unforgettable style moments. Amid the chaos, his choice of the Air Jordan 4 “Cement” colorway brings a sense of style and swagger to the video. This pair of Jordans has become a classic, and Ludacris helped make it famous with his larger-than-life persona and unapologetically bold fashion choices.

Final Thoughts
Air Jordans are more than just sneakers; they’re cultural symbols woven into the history of hip-hop and street style. From Michael Jackson’s unforgettable moves to Kanye West’s futuristic flair, these appearances in music videos have cemented Jordans as icons of cool. Each video captures a unique moment in sneaker culture, showing just how much these shoes mean to artists and fans alike. So the next time you slip into a pair of Jordans, remember you’re wearing a piece of music history.