Why is 80s culture popular today?

Retro fashion has always been in style, such as the flapper dresses from the Gatsby era and the sequins from disco in the seventies. However, the influence of the eighties has stood the test of time and spread into many aspects of our lives, including interior design. Many styles and aspects of fashion still incorporate the bold colours, geometric patterns, and lines that are synonymous with this decade.

In fact, every decade is known for many things, but music is clearly a stand-out feature. Many of us are able to recall certain bands, singers, or songs from specific decades. However, the 80s always seem to get mentioned by young and old, alike. There were a fair few pivotal points in music during that decade, many of which still feature in today’s music scene.

80s Music

Where do we begin? There were so many ground-breaking innovative moments in 80s music, such as the birth of MTV and videos, along with artists that laid the foundation for music today. Perhaps one of the most striking things about 80s music was the lack of auto-tune or synthesiser. Instruments had to be played by artists and live music was becoming increasingly popular. Originality in music was more important than conforming to popular norms.

At the beginning of the 80s, in 1981, MTV went live as a channel. It showcased music videos, with “Video Killed the Radio Star” by the Buggles, the first to be played. Between videos, video jockeys (VJs) would discuss music news, but there was a lack of them and the channel was struggling with ratings because of this. Its owners decided to widen the music they would play, including rhythm and blues, which gave MTV a much-needed resurgence.

A year later, in 1982, Michael Jackson released the “Thriller” video, which was innovative for its time. It was a 13-minute film, which centred on the song, and was directed by John Landis, who Jackson personally chose after seeing Landis’ movie, “An American Werewolf in London”.

Thriller changed the music video landscape forever. Artists, like Madonna, Tina Turner, and Duran Duran began using the available technology to create music videos. During this boom, music videos became just as important as an artist’s music.

More of the 80s, Today

But our love for the eighties goes beyond music, with many films from that decade also standing the test of time. Police Academy, Die Hard, Crocodile Dundee, and Beverly Hills Cop were all successful film franchises in their own right. They’re still being watched today, as are films starring the actors that were known as the brat pack, due to their age. These include Pretty in Pink, St Elmo’s Fire and The Breakfast Club.

There are even 80s nights that are regularly held around the UK. People get to dance to 80s music, wearing typical 80s attire. This can include shoulder pads, leggings, Lycra, leg warmers, sweat bands, jeans, polo shirts and leather jackets. Neon colours featured strongly in items of clothing, as did bold patterns. Makeup in the 80s was also bold and colourful, with eyeliner being a must. As for hairstyles, the mullet, perms and Jheri curls were popular, but whether you’d see them in an 80s night venue remains to be seen.

Despite being several decades on from the 80s, it doesn’t mean that this decade cannot amalgamate with now. For instance, if someone wanted to go to an event back in the decade but couldn’t, they would miss it. With the internet now available to us, if someone wants to stream a live event, whether it’s a concert or game, like live bingo, they’re able to do so from the comfort of their own home. This means they get to take part and don't miss out, even if it’s an 80s event.

Modern technology of today is able to take you back to nearly any time in history. Many of us will feel nostalgic for all the good stuff in that decade just by hearing a few tunes. Stepping back in time is something many of us do for escapism and a break from the norm. Others are intrigued and, for them, yesteryear is a treasure trove of discovery. Both help to develop popular culture when it comes to whatever decade they’re interested in. 

History is what helps us move forward, and this is relevant in music, as well as other genres. They may have an influence on our daily lives, but this helps to keep the past alive, which is no bad thing.

 Other Articles Related to Your Search

• Spring Summer Fashion Trends - What You Need to Know
• How Party Dresses for Women Have Changed Over the Years