Following the countercultural and revolutionary movements of the 1970s, many Americans applied a new conservatism in economic, political, and social life during the 1980s. Defined by the policies of President Ronald Reagan, the decade was associated with materialism and consumerism and witnessed the emergence of blockbuster films and the rise of cable networks like MTV, which has played music videos round the clock since its US broadcast on August 1, 1981. The breakthrough of new technologies, such as the release of the very first CD, had a remarkable effect on ‘80s music, and resulted in a unique production aesthetic that launched the careers of many phenomenal artists.
Arguably the bigger star of this era, Michael Jackson, boasts unsurpassed fame, with a record-breaking eight Grammy Awards for his album Thriller in 1982. Another definitive icon of the decade is Madonna, whose incredible music videos became a necessary commodity on MTV, landing her the title as the most successful female singer of all time.
Hard rock also became one of the most dominant music genres of the time and its peak saw the formation of Nirvana, a band which had a significant impact on modern rock and roll culture. Then there was the induction of other rock bands like The Beatles, The Drifters, The Beach Boys, The Supremes and Bob Dylan into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1988. This recognition led to the naming of four streets in Liverpool after members of The Beatles in 1982. However, two years prior to this touching tribute to the iconic band, John Lennon was shot to death by a fan outside his NYC apartment. Nevertheless, the popular culture of the 1980s was a major influence on the artists and audiences of the decades to come, particularly in the music arena.
The Top Five Musicians Sensations of the '80s
Michael Jackson
One of the megastars of the early 1980s was the “King of Pop,” Michael Jackson. Born and raised in Gary, Indiana, Michael became a massive figure in popular music thanks to his hundreds of awards. He’s received 23 Guinness World Records, 16 Grammys, and 26 AMAs, among others, and he created history with his music video “Billie Jean.” The very first song by a black artist to air on MTV, Billie Jean was recognized for breaking racial barriers.
The only pop artist to have been inducted into the Dance Hall of Fame, MJ popularized the robot and the moonwalk dance techniques. His fashion and music have strongly influenced numerous artists. And who could forget the fact that he co-wrote the 1985 song “We Are the World” with Lionel Richie, raising $63 million for underprivileged people in the US and Africa.
