Table of Contents:
Introduction
The 1980s were a decade of great change in the world of music. With the rise of MTV and other music video channels, music became more visual and accessible. It was a time of experimentation and new sounds, but what was the main genre of music in the 80s? In this article, we will explore the top musical genres of the 80s, including pop, rock, hip hop, and electronic music.
Pop Music
Pop music was one of the most popular genres of music in the 80s. It was characterized by catchy melodies, upbeat rhythms, and lyrics that often dealt with love, relationships, and teenage life. Some of the biggest pop stars of the 80s included Michael Jackson, Madonna, and Prince.
Michael Jackson's album "Thriller" released in 1982 was the best-selling album of all time and helped to solidify pop music as a dominant genre in the 80s. Madonna, known for her provocative style and catchy pop songs, became a cultural icon and a symbol of female empowerment.
Rock Music
Rock music also had a significant impact on the 80s music scene. Bands such as Guns N' Roses, Bon Jovi, and U2 became some of the most popular rock bands of the decade. Rock music in the 80s was characterized by loud guitar riffs, heavy drums, and powerful vocals.
Metallica's "Master of Puppets" released in 1986 became one of the most influential albums in the history of metal music. Bon Jovi's "Slippery When Wet" released in 1986 also became one of the best-selling albums of the decade.
Hip Hop Music
Hip hop music emerged in the 80s and quickly became a dominant force in popular culture. It was characterized by its use of sampling, scratching, and rapping. Some of the biggest hip hop stars of the 80s included Run-DMC, LL Cool J, and Public Enemy.
Run-DMC's collaboration with Aerosmith on the song "Walk This Way" released in 1986 helped to bring hip hop music to a wider audience. Public Enemy's album "It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back" released in 1988 also became a landmark album in the history of hip hop music.
Electronic Music
Electronic music also had a significant impact on the music scene in the 80s. It was characterized by its use of synthesizers, drum machines, and other electronic instruments. Some of the biggest electronic music artists of the 80s included Depeche Mode, New Order, and Pet Shop Boys.
Depeche Mode's album "Violator" released in 1990 became one of the most influential electronic albums of all time. New Order's song "Blue Monday" released in 1983 also became one of the best-selling singles of the decade.
Conclusion
The 80s was a decade of great change in the world of music. Pop, rock, hip hop, and electronic music all had a significant impact on the music scene. Each genre had its unique characteristics and contributed to the sound of the 80s. Whether you were a fan of pop, rock, hip hop, or electronic music, the 80s had something for everyone.
So, if you're feeling nostalgic for the music of the 80s, turn up the volume and enjoy the sounds of one of the most exciting and innovative decades in music history.
