We’ve taken you through a journey of the sounds and artists that defined the 1970s music scene, and today we explore the transformative music of the 1980s.

The 80s marked a vibrant and revolutionary era in music that shaped the musical landscape of its time, and continues to echo through the sounds of contemporary artists. Two out of six of the best-selling albums of all time (Michael Jackson’s Thriller, and AC/DC’s Back in Black) were released in the 80s, and included some of the most timeless and celebrated 1980 songs. 

Defined by infectious melodies, synthesizer-driven beats, and a spectacle of genres, 80s music left a lasting mark on the world, and a legacy that persists to this day.

Revolutionizing Music in the 80s

The 80s music scene was characterized by a diverse range of styles. From Michael Jackson's infectious pop tunes, to the anthemic rock tracks of bands like U2 and Guns N' Roses, the decade really embraced an eclectic mix of sounds. 

The use of synthesizers and electronic instruments gained popularity during this time, birthing the era of a new wave of musical exploration, with bands like Depeche Mode and Duran Duran at the forefront. Artists were able to experiment with different textures and sounds that had never been attempted before, creating catchy, futuristic beats that became pivotal in shaping the decade’s sonic identity.

Meanwhile, the rise of the iconic music video and reality TV broadcasting channel, MTV, helped underline the importance of the visual appeal of music (on both screens and stages). 

This revolutionized the consumption of music, and artists were quick to embrace the trend. A prioritization of visually striking music videos, as well as elevated stage performances, captivating visuals, and choreographed tunes, emerged.

This resulted in an emphasis on the relationship between music and image in building an artist’s brand and is probably why the fashion of the 80s favored such bold and bright choices.

Continued Influence on Modern Artists

The sounds of the 80s music continue to serve as a source of inspiration for contemporary musicians across a wide array of genres. 

Artists like The Weeknd, with his album After Hours, and Dua Lipa's Future Nostalgia seamlessly blend modern pop with elements of 80s dance music, by weaving synth-heavy production and retro energy within their infectious hooks and bouncy verses. 

Meanwhile, the innovative electro-pop duo Daft Punk’s sound clearly draws influence from the era's electronic influences. They infuse their music with futuristic sounds that pay homage to distinct 80s influences, highlighting the enduring impact of 80s music.

The distinct aesthetics and sonic landscapes of the 80s have transcended time and genres to inform the likes of experimental Indie Rock bands The 1975 and Arctic Monkeys, who also owe their sound to the influence of nostalgic 80s songs. 

Their incorporation of the retro undertones and sonic experimentation reminiscent of the decade, with the musical interpretation of the Indie Sleaze movement, captivated the hearts of female fans (in particular) worldwide and defined its own genre.