80s casual

The Groovy Beat of 80s Casual: A Blast from the Past

The 80s saw a cultural explosion, and within this vibrant tapestry, “casual” music emerged as a defining sound of the era. It wasn’t a genre per se, but rather a mood, a vibe, a way of life that captured the essence of the time.

The Roots of the Sound:

Casual music drew heavily from the soul, funk, and R&B sounds of the 70s, infused with a pop sensibility and a touch of synthesizers. The result was a smooth, danceable, and often lighthearted musical experience.

Key Players:

Artists like Shalamar, The Whispers, The Gap Band, and Evelyn “Champagne” King became synonymous with the casual sound. Their music filled dance floors, dominated radio waves, and provided the soundtrack to countless nights out.

Funny Facts:

• Shalamar’s “A Night to Remember” was featured in the iconic 80s movie “Footloose,” but the band didn’t actually record the song for the film. They licensed it from a 1982 disco group, “The Renegades.”
• The Whispers, known for their smooth harmonies, were initially a gospel group called “The Jesters.”
• The Gap Band, a family affair, was formed by three brothers – Charlie, Ronnie, and Robert Wilson. They named the band after the GAP clothing store, which they passed by regularly while on their way to gigs.

The Legacy of Casual:

Though its peak was in the 80s, the influence of casual music continues to be felt. Many of its elements have been incorporated into contemporary R&B, pop, and even electronic music. The playful, upbeat nature of the sound has stood the test of time and remains a reminder of the carefree spirit of the 80s.

More than just music, casual was a cultural phenomenon:

It was about fashion, hairstyles, and a carefree attitude that embraced fun and good times. It was about dancing the night away, wearing bright colors, and feeling good about life.

So, crank up the volume, let the music move you, and relive the groovy era of 80s casual!