Notable Artists
Also known as the "Material Girl"
Madonna
Although the first movie from this franchise came out in the 70s, two more came out in the 80s, and remains a major box-office draw today.
Star Wars
Records
Opening lyric: "Well, it's not far down to paradise. At least it's not for me..."
Sailing by Christopher Cross
I just called to say I love you, and...
I mean it from the bottom of my heart.
Has become widely regarded as the "Queen of Rock." May she rest in peace.
Tina Turner
Former governor of California and the 40th president of the United States.
Ronald Reagan
Back in the day, a "mixed" version of this could be created by recording music off the radio.
Cassette Tape
This supergroup came together to create a song. Its proceeds went to benefit people in Africa struggling with food security.
We Are the World
If you're lost you can look and you will find me
Time after time. If you fall...
I will catch you, I'll be waiting
Time after time
This supergroup of Irish and British pop stars raised money to benefit people in Africa with their song, "Do They Know It's Christmas?"
Band Aid
The debut of this television network changed pop music forever. Image became much more important because of it.
MTV
96.5 was easy-listening. 97.7 was dance music. 102.1 was classical music.
The Radio
First hit song of this lip-synch duo, who was shamed out of their career.
Girl, You Know It's True
Please don't go, girl...
it would ruin my whole world
Won two Grammy awards connected to her debut album. One of her award winning songs was "I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)"
Whitney Houston
This pop-culture phenomenon began as a featured short on the Tracey Ullman show in 1987 before it became its own sitcom in 1989.
The Simpsons
The visual element of music became very prominent in the 80s because of this platform.
MTV or music videos
One of Wham's signature songs. The saxaphone really makes this ballad stand out.
Careless Whisper
We gotta hold on to what we got...
It doesn't make a difference if we make it or not
Hip Hip trio who crossed over to the pop charts with a famous rock collaboration with Aerosmith.
Run DMC
This epidemic preyed on people struggling economically as it became a way to make fast money, but was also incredibly destructive.
Drug or crack epidemic
Though they were more popularized in the 90s, these digitized discs were already being made.
CDs (compact discs)
If this song unexpectedly enters your life, you've been Rick Rolled!
Never Gonna Give You Up
If they say, why? Why?
Tell 'em that it's human nature.