The 80s - When Music Went Pop!

The 1980s was a unique decade in entertainment, with a mix of extreme fashion and a golden age of music. It was a time when music changed forever, with changes in the way it was made, presented, and performed. The decade saw the birth of Pop Music, with the new romantics, synthpop, hip-hop, power ballads, and new wave all coming together. Technology was also born within music and entertainment, with the cassette tape, Sony Walkman, VCR, compact disc, satellite technology, and synthesiser and drum machine enabling free-flowing originality. This book surveys all the trends of the decade and includes an eyewitness account of the time from Richard James Burgess MBE, one of the originators of the new romantic movement.

Format: Paperback / softback
Publication date: 27 April 2022
Publisher: New Haven Publishing Ltd

The 1980s: a truly unique decade, often remembered for its eclectic mix of massive perms, shoulder pads, spandex, mullets, legwarmers, and a multicolored kaleidoscope of innovation and influence. But it wasn't just extreme fashion that made the decade so special. It was a decade when everything in entertainment merged together, flowing beautifully through music. The 80s was a period when music, and the influence it had, was truly remarkable. It would be known as a golden age of music, a time when everyone brought something new and exciting to the table, a time when trends were no longer copied; they were set. It was the decade when music changed forever. Changes in the way it was made, presented, and performed occurred. Alongside the wonderful voluminous hairstyles and smouldering stares, it was the decade when Pop Music was truly born. The new romantics, synthpop, hip-hop, the power ballad, and new wave all came together at the start of the decade and had a long-lasting influence. This was a time when technology was truly born within music and entertainment. The cassette tape, the Sony Walkman, the VCR, and the compact disc were introduced; satellite technology was launched; and the synthesiser and drum machine were invented, enabling free-flowing originality like never before. Never in the history of music and entertainment had everything come together so quickly and so perfectly to enable creativity, imagination, and individuality.

This book will take you back to that era, surveying all the trends of the decade and including an eyewitness account of the time from Richard James Burgess MBE, one of the originators of the new romantic movement and producer of acts such as Span. Burgess shares his experiences and insights into the music, fashion, and culture of the 80s, providing a fascinating glimpse into this iconic period.

The 1980s were a time of immense change and transformation. The world was emerging from the shadows of the Cold War, and a sense of optimism and excitement permeated the air. In the United States, the economy was booming, and people had more disposable income than ever before. This led to a surge in consumerism, with people eager to buy the latest gadgets and fashion trends.

One of the most significant fashion trends of the 1980s was the emergence of the "power suit." This was a bold and daring look that featured oversized shoulders, padded jackets, and tight pants. It was a statement of confidence and empowerment, and it quickly became a favorite among celebrities and fashionistas alike. Shoulder pads were also a staple of the 1980s power suit, adding a touch of masculinity to the feminine silhouette.

Another popular fashion trend of the 1980s was the "new romantic." This movement was characterized by a softer and more feminine aesthetic, with flowing dresses, ruffled blouses, and delicate accessories. It was a contrast to the more masculine power suit, and it quickly became a favorite among young women who wanted to express their individuality and creativity.

In addition to fashion, the 1980s were a time of immense innovation in music. The rise of electronic music was particularly significant, with artists such as Kraftwerk, Giorgio Moroder, and Donna Summer pioneering the genre. Electronic music was characterized by its use of synthesizers and drum machines, which allowed for a wide range of sounds and textures. This led to the development of new subgenres, such as synthpop and techno, which were popular among clubgoers and dance enthusiasts.

Another significant musical trend of the 1980s was the emergence of hip-hop. This genre was born in the Bronx, New York, and it quickly spread throughout the United States and the world. Hip-hop was characterized by its rhythmic beats, catchy lyrics, and powerful messages. It was a voice for the marginalized and the oppressed, and it quickly became a cultural phenomenon.

The 1980s were also a time of political and social change. The AIDS pandemic was a major issue of concern, and many people were affected by the disease. There was a growing awareness of the importance of sexual health and safe practices, and there was a push for greater education and awareness about HIV/AIDS.

In conclusion, the 1980s were a truly unique decade. It was a time of immense change and transformation, characterized by bold fashion trends, innovative music, and political and social activism. The 80s were a golden age of music, a time when everyone brought something new and exciting to the table, a time when trends were no longer copied; they were set. This book will take you back to that era, surveying all the trends of the decade and including an eyewitness account of the time from Richard James Burgess MBE, one of the originators of the new romantic movement and producer of acts such as Span.

Weight: 308g
Dimension: 151 x 227 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781912587520