80s

The 80s: When Music Got Big, Bold, and Sometimes Really Weird

The 80s, a decade of shoulder pads, neon colors, and hairspray so stiff it could hold up a house, saw music explode into new territories. Gone were the mellow vibes of the 70s, replaced by a sonic landscape of synth-heavy pop, power ballads, and rock so loud it made your eardrums vibrate.

Pop Goes the Synth: The 80s were a golden age for synthesizers. From the infectious melodies of Madonna to the futuristic sounds of Depeche Mode, synths became the defining instrument of the era. The Human League’s “Don’t You Want Me” was so synth-heavy that it even featured a robot singing backup!

Rockin’ Hard and Heavy: Hair metal roared its way into the mainstream, with bands like Bon Jovi, Def Leppard, and Van Halen churning out anthems of rebellion and excess. Mötley Crüe was known for their outlandish stage antics, once even setting a drum riser on fire, which was promptly extinguished by the band’s guitarist, who had apparently packed a fire extinguisher in his guitar case.

The Ballad of the Power Chord: Power ballads, with their soaring vocals and dramatic instrumentals, dominated the airwaves. Celine Dion, Bonnie Tyler, and Europe all had their hearts ripped out and poured into songs that could bring even the most stoic soul to tears. It’s rumoured that Europe‘s “The Final Countdown” was originally written as a song about the impending doom of the universe, but they decided to rewrite it as a hopeful ballad about a band’s upcoming tour.

But It’s Not All Glamour: The 80s were also home to some quirky and downright bizarre music. The B-52’s embraced kitsch with their wild costumes and quirky lyrics. Their song “Rock Lobster” is still a staple at dance parties, but did you know it was inspired by a dream about a giant lobster wearing a tuxedo?

From the Cutting Edge to the Chart-Toppers: The 80s saw the rise of MTV, which gave a visual dimension to music, and pushed artists to embrace video as part of their marketing strategy. Michael Jackson‘s “Thriller” video was a landmark moment, a short film that elevated the music video to a new level of artistry. George Michael, with his slicked-back hair and catchy tunes, also became a pop icon, and his “Faith” album was one of the best-selling of the decade.

The 80s music scene was a vibrant tapestry of genres and sounds, from the heart-wrenching ballad to the head-banging anthem. Whether you were a fan of hairspray, neon, or just a good beat, there was something in the 80s for everyone. And even though the decade may be long gone, the music still resonates today, reminding us of a time when music was bold, bright, and a little bit crazy.