Featuring the best 80s music videos, TV shows, 80s celebrities and more!
Can you believe that it’s been over 45 years since the beginning of the ’80s decade, and it’s still the greatest decade to have lived in, in our humble opinion! To celebrate the 1980s, let’s take a little trip down memory lane with 100 of the best ’80s memes on the internet!
Jamie Lee Curtis proves she’s still got it! During her recent appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, the legendary actress re-created her famous aerobics scene from the 1985 film Perfect—and it was just as fun and quirky as we remember.
Wearing a one-piece striped leotard, Curtis slipped back into the role of aerobics instructor Jessie Wilson, teaching a workout routine 40 years later. But this time, Jimmy Fallon took the place of her Perfect co-star, John Travolta, as they performed dramatic aerobics moves together, including the signature side-to-side thrusts that made the original scene so memorable. The routine was filled with playful additions, like the pair seductively eating pizza while staring at each other, and Curtis pouring champagne all over herself in classic, over-the-top fashion.
Things got even more hilarious when Fallon’s workout shorts unexpectedly revealed a white dove flying out, much to Curtis’ surprise. The skit continued to deliver laughs, with Curtis saving a patient’s life with a defibrillator—just like in the movie—before Fallon danced behind her in a comedic, over-the-top moment. Fans of both the film and the skit couldn’t help but rave about the nostalgic re-creation. One Instagram comment summed it up perfectly: “Insane! Love it!” If you haven’t seen it yet, it’s worth checking out. Curtis may have stepped away from the aerobics scene in the ’80s, but she certainly hasn’t lost her touch!
Perfect, directed by James Bridges, was a cult classic that saw Curtis as an aerobics instructor and Travolta as a journalist investigating the world of fitness clubs. The film, which grossed nearly $13 million worldwide, is still fondly remembered for its blend of fitness culture and romance. Now, thanks to Jamie Lee Curtis and Jimmy Fallon, it’s made a hilarious and unexpected return!
Mötley Crüe made headlines on April 23, 2024, when they inked a deal with Big Machine Records. Just three days later, fans were treated to “Dogs of War,” the band’s first release in half a decade and their inaugural track featuring John 5. According to Neil’s interview with Billboard that month, more music from Mötley Crüe might hit the airwaves by late 2024 or in 2025. However, Neil hinted that this new material might come in the form of singles rather than a complete album, suggesting a staggered release approach.
Mötley Crüe emerged from the vibrant music scene of Hollywood, California in 1981. Founded by bassist Nikki Sixx and drummer Tommy Lee, the band quickly solidified its lineup with guitarist Mick Mars and lead vocalist Vince Neil. Together, they embarked on a wild ride through the realms of rock and roll, leaving an impressive mark on the music industry.
One of the band’s most staggering achievements is their staggering album sales, surpassing 100 million copies worldwide. This incredible success is underscored by seven platinum or multi-platinum certifications, showcasing their immense popularity and enduring impact on rock music.
From their early days, Mötley Crüe was synonymous with the rockstar lifestyle, embodying hedonism and rebellion. Their androgynous personas and wild antics both on and off stage became legendary, adding to their allure and mystique.
Musically, Mötley Crüe traversed various subgenres within rock, starting with their hard rock and heavy metal roots evident in albums like “Too Fast for Love” (1981) and “Shout at the Devil” (1983). Their evolution into glam metal with the release of “Theatre of Pain” (1985) marked a significant shift, catapulting them into the first wave of glam metal bands.
The band’s live performances were as electrifying as their music, featuring extravagant elements such as flame thrower guitars, roller coaster drum kits, and jaw-dropping pyrotechnics. These spectacles added a theatrical dimension to their shows, captivating audiences worldwide.
Despite their immense success, Mötley Crüe faced challenges and lineup changes over the years. Lead vocalist John Corabi temporarily replaced Vince Neil from 1992 to 1996, and drummers Randy Castillo and Samantha Maloney filled in for Tommy Lee during his hiatus from the band in 1999. However, Lee returned in 2004, solidifying the classic lineup once again.
In a bittersweet turn, after 41 years of musical excellence, Mick Mars announced his retirement from touring with the band in October 2022. His departure marked the end of an era, yet the band’s spirit remains vibrant as they continue to create new music and tour, with John 5 stepping in to take the stage alongside the remaining members.
Mötley Crüe’s enduring legacy is not just in their record-breaking sales or elaborate performances but in the indelible mark they’ve left on rock history. Their influence resonates through generations of rock enthusiasts, cementing their status as one of the most iconic bands in music history.
In 1989, Corey Feldman performed at The Improv, and to kick off his routine, he danced and lip synched to the song Something In Your Eyes, a song he co-written by Michael Damien for Feldman’s movie, Dream A Little Dream.
To say this is cringe-worthy is putting it mildly. Oh, and the best part of the video is around the .58 mark when a woman makes what can only be described as an astonished facial expression. What she was astonished about is still up to debate.
Without further ado, enjoy this little masterpiece from 1989!
A new song popped up on my Spotify suggested songs list last week. It’s a sped up version of Don’t Know What You Got (Till It’s Gone). I checked out Cinderella’s official YouTube channel, and they’re on board with it since it’s featuring in their releases section. I’m not really sure why they would be, but it’s an interesting way to listen to their iconic single from 1988.
Released in August 1988, this soul-stirring anthem from Cinderella’s second album, “Long Cold Winter,” continues to strike a chord with music enthusiasts worldwide. Written by Tom Keifer, this emotive masterpiece captures the essence of love’s fragility and the profound realization of its worth when it slips through our fingers.
Climbing the charts to reach an impressive peak at number 12 on the US Billboard Hot 100 in November 1988, “Don’t Know What You Got (Till It’s Gone)” remains Cinderella’s most successful single to date.
So, without further ado, have a listen to the sped up version as well as the regular version we all know and love and let us know your thoughts.
“Modern Love” stands as a captivating composition penned by the renowned English singer-songwriter, David Bowie. It made its debut as the opening track on his 1983 album, Let’s Dance, and later emerged as the third single from the same album. Collaboratively produced by Bowie and Nile Rodgers from the American band Chic, this rock-infused song boasts elements of the vibrant new wave music genre. The recording took place at the Power Station in Manhattan and became one of the initial tracks completed for the album. During the Serious Moonlight Tour, “Modern Love” was a prominent part of Bowie’s performances, often concluding the shows. A music video directed by Jim Yukich showcased a remarkable live rendition of the song during the tour and received substantial airtime on MTV after its release in 1983.
Since its launch, “Modern Love” has garnered widespread acclaim from music critics who have lauded Bowie’s exceptional songwriting, masterful production, and its impactful placement as the opening track. Considered one of the standout pieces on Let’s Dance, alongside “China Girl” and the title track, it has rightfully earned its place as one of Bowie’s greatest compositions. The single’s release was a commercial triumph, reaching number two on the UK Singles Chart and peaking at number 14 on the prestigious US Billboard Hot 100 chart. As a testament to its enduring popularity, “Modern Love” has featured on various compilation albums and underwent remastering for the 2018 box set titled “Loving the Alien (1983–1988).”
The music video for the song incorporated footage of David Bowie and his band performing “Modern Love” during a concert held as part of the Serious Moonlight Tour. Directed by Jim Yukich, the video brilliantly captures the essence of Bowie and his band’s energetic encore during a four-night engagement at Philadelphia’s Spectrum theater. According to Kyle Ryan from The A.V. Club, the visuals foreshadow the forthcoming swing revival that would take place a decade later.
In contrast to Bowie’s other videos released that same year, like “China Girl” and “Let’s Dance,” the “Modern Love” video follows a refreshingly straightforward approach. It allows the viewers to immerse themselves in the live performance, showcasing the sheer talent and stage presence of Bowie and his band without elaborate storytelling or visual effects.
“Tainted Love” is a renowned song initially composed by Ed Cobb, a former member of the American group, the Four Preps. Gloria Jones originally recorded the track in 1964. However, it gained worldwide fame when the British synthpop duo, Soft Cell, covered and reworked it in 1981. Since then, the song has been covered by various groups and artists.
Soft Cell first discovered “Tainted Love” due to its popularity as a UK “Northern soul” hit. In 2010, DJ Ian “Frank” Dewhirst claimed to be the first person to introduce the song to Marc Almond, the vocalist of Soft Cell. After incorporating the track into their live performances, Soft Cell decided to record it as their second single, succeeding “Memorabilia,” which didn’t chart.
The Soft Cell version of “Tainted Love” featured a slower tempo compared to Jones’s original and was transposed from the key of C to G to better suit Marc Almond’s lower vocal range. The band used synthesizers and rhythm machines, replacing the original instrumentation of guitars, bass, drums, and horns.
Phonogram Records released the song in 1981 as Soft Cell’s second single. It was a critical moment for the band as they were told this might be their final release on Some Bizzare if it didn’t sell well. The 12″ single version combined “Tainted Love” with a cover of the Supremes’ “Where Did Our Love Go,” adding a progressive dimension to the track.
Thanks to a memorable performance on the BBC’s Top of the Pops, “Tainted Love” reached number one on the UK Singles Chart, becoming the best-selling single of 1981 in the UK (until the Official Charts Company recalculated the data in 2021). In the same year, it achieved 1.05 million sales, with numbers rising to 1.35 million copies by August 2017.
During the Second British Invasion, “Tainted Love” became a significant success in the US, spending a then-record breaking 43 weeks on the US Billboard Hot 100. It entered the chart at number 90, eventually reaching number 8 during the summer of 1982. Soft Cell produced a music video for the song, featuring David Ball as a cricketer meeting Marc Almond in a toga on a setting reminiscent of Mount Olympus, featured in their video album, Non-Stop Exotic Video Show.
The Soft Cell rendition of “Tainted Love” earned the fifth spot on VH1’s 100 Greatest One-Hit Wonders of the 1980s list. Additionally, the track was sampled in Rihanna’s 2006 single “SOS” and the Veronicas’ 2007 single “Hook Me Up.” In 2015, a British public poll for ITV voted it as the nation’s fourth favorite 1980s number one song.
MTV Unplugged showcased musical artists performing in an acoustic and intimate setting, often featuring stripped-down versions of their popular songs. The show gained significant popularity during its initial run from 1989 to 1999.
While the performances on MTV Unplugged primarily focused on acoustic instruments, such as acoustic guitars and traditional pianos, there were instances where other instruments like the bass guitar or Hammond organ were still amplified to maintain the overall sound.
The idea for MTV Unplugged is often attributed to a performance by Jon Bon Jovi and Richie Sambora at the 1989 MTV Video Music Awards (See performance below as well). However, it is worth noting that the show was already in production at the time, and Bon Jovi’s acoustic performance merely helped popularize the concept further.
During the ’90s, many of our favorite ’80s rock and pop stars appeared on the show. We culled through a ton of footage online and found ten memorable performances by ’80s bands performing one of their biggest ’80s hits. Enjoy this look back at ten memorable MTV Unplugged performances from Great White, A-ha, Poison, 10,000 Maniacs, KISS, Rod Stewart, Bryan Adams, Duran Duran, George Michael, and The Smithereens!
Great White – “Once Bitten, Twice Shy”
A-ha – “Take On Me”
Poison – “Every Rose Has Its Thorn”
10,000 Maniacs – “These Are The Days”
KISS – “Beth”
Rod Stewart – “Forever Young”
Bryan Adams – “Heaven”
Duran Duran – “Hungry Like The Wolf”
George Michael – “Father Figure”
The Smithereens – “Only a Memory” + “A Girl Like You”
Jon Bon Jovi & Richie Sambora – “Livin’ On A Prayer” and “Wanted Dead Or Alive” Live at the MTV Video Music Awards in 1989
When I think back to my childhood and teen years in the late ’70s and early ’80s, it truly is a miracle that I escaped with a few broken bones, a lot of bruises, and more strawberry knee scrapes than I care to remember. However, I wouldn’t trade being a kid in the ’70s and ’80s for anything. Today, almost every picture below would be frowned upon by today’s parents, but for us back then, it was just a whole lot of fun!
Enjoy this look back at 10 photographic reasons why ’70s and ’80s kids are tougher than kids today!
Bruce Springsteen, an ’80s rock icon, has a catalog of music that resonates deeply with audiences around the world. Among his extensive discography, one song stands out for its powerful message and misunderstood lyrics: “Born in the USA.” In today’s post, we’ll delve into the story behind the song, its profound lyrics, its misunderstood meaning, and the impact it has had on popular culture.
Released in 1984 as the third single from Springsteen’s seventh studio album of the same name, “Born in the USA” was a top ten hit on the Hot 100 chart. At first listen, the energetic melody and catchy chorus may lead one to assume it’s a patriotic anthem. However, upon closer examination, the song unveils a deeper narrative, shedding light on the complexities of the American experience.
Springsteen’s lyrics are a poignant reflection on the challenges faced by Vietnam War veterans and the struggles of the working class. Contrary to popular belief, “Born in the USA” is not a blind celebration of American exceptionalism but a critique of the treatment and neglect of those who fought for their country.
The opening verse depicts the protagonist’s life as a working-class individual, highlighting the hardships and disillusionment faced upon returning from war. The line “Got in a little hometown jam, so they put a rifle in my hand” reveals the conscription and the involuntary participation in the war.
The chorus, with its anthemic quality, can be misconstrued as pure patriotism. However, Springsteen’s intent was to convey the frustration and disillusionment experienced by veterans who returned to a nation that failed to support them adequately. The repeated line “Born in the USA” acts as a juxtaposition, emphasizing the discrepancy between the idealized perception of America and the harsh reality faced by those affected.
“Born in the USA” resonated with audiences around the world, sparking conversations about war, patriotism, and the treatment of veterans. Its success on the charts and Springsteen’s powerful stage presence during live performances solidified its status as a cultural touchstone.
Moreover, the song became synonymous with the 1980s, embodying the spirit of an era characterized by political and social shifts. Springsteen’s ability to address societal issues through his music captured the attention of a generation grappling with questions of identity, nationalism, and individual struggle.
Bruce Springsteen’s “Born in the USA” stands as a testament to the power of music to provoke thought and challenge assumptions. Its misunderstood lyrics have sparked discussions and debates, shedding light on the complexities of the American experience. Beyond its infectious melody, the song serves as a reminder of the struggles faced by veterans and the resilience of the working class.
So, the next time you hear “Born in the USA,” take a moment to appreciate the depth of Springsteen’s lyrics and the way it prompts us to reflect on the true meaning of patriotism and the challenges faced by those who have served. It is a song that continues to resonate, urging us to examine the complexities of our society and strive for a better understanding of one another.
For those of us who were huge fans of KISS during the ’70s and ’80s, “Beth” will always be a special song, and in 1995, KISS appeared on MTV Unplugged and asked Peter Criss to come out and sing his iconic hit “Beth”. The passion and enthusiasm that Criss exudes during the performance is so cool to watch. You can tell how much this meant to him that the band asked him to join them on stage for this song.
For those that aren’t that familiar with the song “Beth” from KISS, enjoy this look back at a song that almost never happened!
Music has a remarkable power to transcend time and touch our souls. Throughout the decades, countless songs have left a lasting impact on listeners worldwide. Among these unforgettable melodies, one stands out as an emblem of love, tenderness, and vulnerability: “Beth” by KISS. Released in 1976, this timeless ballad holds a special place in the hearts of fans and continues to resonate with audiences today.
“Beth” was not a typical KISS song. Instead, it was a departure from their usual style, displaying a softer and more emotional side of the band. The song was written by drummer Peter Criss and songwriter Stan Penridge, who was a close friend of Criss. As the story goes, Peter Criss was going through a challenging time in his personal life, and the lyrics of “Beth” reflect his longing for connection and understanding.
The beauty of “Beth” lies in its simplicity and emotive power. The piano-driven melody captures a sense of longing, while Criss’s heartfelt vocals convey the depths of his emotions. The song’s melancholic tone, accompanied by gentle orchestration, enhances the raw vulnerability at its core. “Beth” showcases the band’s ability to branch out from their signature sound and create something truly captivating and profound.
One of the remarkable aspects of “Beth” is its ability to resonate with a wide range of listeners. Although initially released as a B-side to KISS’s hit single “Detroit Rock City,” the song gained immense popularity and received substantial airplay, even on non-rock radio stations. Its relatable theme of yearning for a loved one struck a chord with many, as it tapped into the universal human experience of longing and vulnerability. “Beth” became an anthem for those who wished to express their emotions sincerely.
Over the years, “Beth” has become an integral part of KISS’s legacy and has solidified its place in the pantheon of classic rock ballads. The song achieved significant commercial success, reaching #7 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and earning KISS their first gold record. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and emotional resonance.
Moreover, “Beth” showcased KISS’s versatility as a band and their willingness to experiment with different musical styles. It demonstrated that beneath the makeup and the pyrotechnics, KISS possessed the ability to create a genuinely moving and heartfelt piece of music.
“Beth” is a poignant reminder that even amidst the loud and powerful anthems of rock and roll, vulnerability and emotional depth can find their place. KISS’s departure from their traditional sound with this heartfelt ballad touched the hearts of millions and continues to captivate listeners to this day. Whether you are a fan of KISS or not, “Beth” is an exquisite example of how music can evoke profound emotions and connect us in ways that transcend time. It stands as a testament to the power of vulnerability and remains an essential part of KISS’s enduring legacy.
Enjoy this look back at a few memorable live performances of “Beth” from KISS including the aforementioned MTV Unplugged version first!
Play the Game was released in 1980 as the third single from Queen’s album The Game. Play the Game was a top 20 hit in the UK, peaking at number 14 and peaked at number 42 on the Hot 100 chart in the US. They followed up Play the Game with their massive number one hit in the US, Another One Bites the Dust, which was the fourth single released from The Game.
Enjoy this look back at an incredible remastered performance of Play the Game filmed during Queen’s March 20th, 1981 concert in Sao Paulo, Brazil!
In June of 1985, Phil Collins appeared on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. Collins had released his third solo studio album, No Jacket Required, in January of 1985, but on the show, he performed his hit single ‘Against All Odds (Take A Look at me Now)’ from the 1984 movie, ‘Against All Odds’. The song was a number one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and it was Collins’ first of seven solo number one singles.
Collins then sat down and had a nice chat with Johnny before performing one more song. Rather than singing one of his current number one hits from No Jacket Required (‘Sussudio’ and ‘One More Night’), Collins opted to perform ‘The Roof is Leaking’, one of my favorite songs from his 1981 solo debut album Face Value.
Johnny and audience loved it, and I think you will too. Enjoy!
In 1986, ZZ Top made their first live TV appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. Carson introduced them as “one of the biggest single concert attractions in the country,” and also mentioned that after 16 years, this was their first time performing on live TV. The band, Carson, and the Tonight Show’s bandleader Doc Severinson had a great time during the performance with Severinson and Carson even sporting fake long beards.
They performed their classic hit Sharp Dressed Man, and with the crowd still applauding after the song, Billy Gibbons thanked them and said, “How about another one?”, and they launched into Tush.
Enjoy this look back at ZZ Top making their live TV debut in 1986 on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson!
Watch more great clips from The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson!
If you’re as big of a fan of Caddyshack and Rodney Dangerfield as I am, you’re gonna love this video that features clips of every line in Caddyshack from Rodney Dangerfield. From “Oh, this is the worst-looking hat I ever saw. What, when you buy a hat like this I bet you get a free bowl of soup, huh? Oh, it looks good on you though.” to “Oh, this your wife, huh? A lovely lady. Hey baby, you must’ve been something before electricity.“
Caddyshack lovers, this one is for you! Enjoy!
Motley Crue released their third studio album, Theatre of Pain on June 21, 1985. The album was a commercial success, but reportedly, the band hated the album and considered it to be a creative failure except for one song. The first single released was a cover of Brownsville Station’s 1973 top five single Smokin’ in the Boys Room. Motley Crue’s version was a hit on the charts and became the band’s first top 40 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, peaking at number 16. The music video for Smokin’ in the Boys Room also received heavy rotation on MTV.
The boys from the Crue wanted to release Home Sweet Home as their second single, but their label, Elektra wanted no part of the song. The Crue were adamant that Home Sweet Home be released as it was the only song on the album they actually liked. Home Sweet Home was released as the second single, but it failed miserably on the charts, peaking at number 89 on the Hot 100, and number 39 on the Mainstream Rock chart.
Because the label hated the song so much, they refused to promote, and Motley Crue took matters into their own hands with the music video. They funded the music video themselves and produced the video we all know today as one of the most iconic music videos of all time. The video was so popular on MTV’s request line, that it topped the daily request chart for over three months, which prompted MTV to invoke the unwritten “Crue Rule”, which dropped music videos from their request line 30 days after the videos MTV debut.
Home Sweet Home also impacted the way rock bands recorded albums. Largely due to the popularity of Home Sweet Home’s music video, Theatre of Pain sold over 4 million copies, and other bands and labels took notice. What we know as a rock ballad single now wasn’t the norm in the early 80s. However, after the success of Home Sweet Home, releasing a rock ballad as the 2nd or 3rd single became the standard for hard rock bands in the late ’80s and early ’90s.
The Professor of Rock put together the awesome episode below about Home Sweet Home and it’s impact on the band and rock music in general. This is a great episode that you’re gonna love, and of course, we have to feature the video as well. Enjoy a look back at Home Sweet Home from Motley Crue!
You’ve probably heard a lot about A.I., ChatGPT, Google’s Bard, and a number of other artificial intelligence sites that spit out answers to your questions in seconds. I thought I’d check out ChatGPT and find out what it would say if I asked it to give me 20 reasons why it was better growing up in the ’80s than today. The reasons below might surprise you in how accurate and candid they are Frankly, there are a number of their answers below that are spot-on, if not most. So, without further ado, here are 20 reasons why it was better growing up in the ’80s than today:
In our humble opinion, Johnny Carson had some of the most unique guests of any talk show in history. Case in point, on May 7, 1982, the self-proclaimed Manure Man of South Carolina, Frank Hill was a guest on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, and he brought along a special gift for Johnny.
You don’t want to miss this one! Enjoy this look back at the time the Manure Man of South Carolina visited with Johnny Carson on The Tonight Show in 1982!
Send Her My Love was the fourth single released from Journey’s 1983 album Frontiers. Frontiers was Journey’s eighth studio album, and the album reached number two on the Billboard 200 chart. It spawned four top 40 singles: “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” (No. 8), “Faithfully” (No. 12), “After the Fall” (No. 23), and the aforementioned “Send Her My Love” which also peaked at number 23 on the Hot 100 chart.
“Send Her My Love” was written by the band’s keyboardist, Jonathan Cain, and lead vocalist, Steve Perry.
Jonathan Cain talked about what inspired this song. “I had a girlfriend when I was a teenager and somebody had called backstage to one of the shows and said, ‘Virginia still talks about you and your relationship.’ It was just one of those offhanded comments. I looked at her and just said, ‘Send her my love.’
I walked out, and it hit me: ‘Wait a minute, that’s a song!’
I went home and I called Steve Perry up and I said I came up with this idea, and we wrote it on the spot. A lot of this stuff we wrote was just on the spot. Very, very spontaneous. We kind of wrote with an urgency because we didn’t have a lot of time together. The road was hard enough. When we did write, we wrote very intense. All the lyrics were, like, within hours. We didn’t mess around.”
via songfacts.com
Enjoy this look back at Journey’s music video for Send Her My Love from 1983!
The Mirage Tour was Fleetwood Mac’s 1982 concert tour in support of their 1982 album Mirage. The tour began on September 1, 1982, in St. Louis, Missouri, and ended on October 31, 1982, in Los Angeles, California. The tour covered 29 cities in the United States.
The tour was a commercial success, grossing over $20 million.
The setlist for the tour typically included the following songs:
The tour was supported by the following acts:
Enjoy this look back at Fleetwood Mac performing two of their biggest hits live during the 1982 Mirage Tour, The Chain and Rhiannon!
There are so many funny movies from the 1980s, and opinions on what constitutes the funniest movies can vary, but here are our top ten classic comedies from the 1980s:
1. The Blues Brothers (1980) – “The Blues Brothers” is a classic comedy from 1980 directed by John Landis and starring Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi. The film follows the story of Jake and Elwood Blues, two blues musicians who embark on a “mission from God” to save the Catholic orphanage where they grew up by raising enough money to pay off its debts.
2. Airplane! (1980) – “Airplane!” is directed by Jim Abrahams, David Zucker, and Jerry Zucker. The film is a spoof of disaster movies and features an ensemble cast, including Robert Hays, Julie Hagerty, Leslie Nielsen, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to name a few.
The plot follows a traumatized former military pilot, Ted Striker (Hays), who boards a commercial airplane to win back his ex-girlfriend, a flight attendant named Elaine (Hagerty). However, the flight crew and passengers fall ill due to food poisoning, and it is up to Striker, who has a fear of flying, to land the plane safely with the help of a flight captain (Nielsen) who takes everything literally.
3. Caddyshack (1980) – “Caddyshack” is a classic comedy from 1980 directed by Harold Ramis and starring Chevy Chase, Rodney Dangerfield, and Bill Murray. The film is set at Bushwood Country Club, a prestigious golf course in the fictional town of Bushwood, Connecticut. The story follows Danny Noonan (Michael O’Keefe), a young caddie who dreams of winning the club’s caddie scholarship. However, his chances of winning are slim, as he is up against the more experienced caddies, including Ty Webb (Chevy Chase), the club pro, and Al Czervik (Rodney Dangerfield), a wealthy businessman who is new to the club.
The film also follows the exploits of the club’s groundskeeper, Carl Spackler (Bill Murray), who is waging a one-man war against a gopher that has been terrorizing the course.
Caddyshack was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $39 million at the box office.
4. Ghostbusters (1984) – “Ghostbusters” is a 1984 supernatural comedy directed and produced by Ivan Reitman, and written by Dan Aykroyd and Harold Ramis. It stars Bill Murray, Aykroyd, and Ramis as Peter Venkman, Ray Stantz, and Egon Spengler, three eccentric parapsychologists who start a ghost-catching business in New York City. It also stars Sigourney Weaver, Rick Moranis, and Ernie Hudson in supporting roles.
Ghostbusters was released on June 8, 1984, to critical acclaim and became a cultural phenomenon. It was well received for its blend of comedy, action, and horror, and Murray’s performance was often singled out for praise. It earned $282.2 million during its initial theatrical run, making it the second-highest-grossing film of 1984 in the United States and Canada, and the then-highest-grossing comedy ever. It was the number-one film in theaters for seven consecutive weeks and one of only four films to gross more than $100 million that year.
The film follows three parapsychologists who are fired from their university jobs after their research into the paranormal is deemed to be unscientific. They decide to start their own ghost-catching business in New York City, and soon find themselves in high demand as the city is overrun by ghosts.
5. Fletch (1985) – “Fletch” is a 1985 film directed by Michael Ritchie and written by Andrew Bergman. Based on Gregory Mcdonald’s popular Fletch novels, the film stars Chevy Chase as the eponymous character. It co-stars Tim Matheson, Dana Wheeler-Nicholson, Geena Davis and Joe Don Baker.
The film revolves around Los Angeles Times reporter Irwin M. “Fletch” Fletcher, who is offered a large sum of money by a millionaire to kill him, claiming he has a terminal cancer prognosis and suicide would invalidate his life insurance policy. Fletch becomes suspicious when he discovers the man is not ill; when he continues to investigate, his life is threatened.
Fletch was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $70 million at the box office. The film has since become a cult classic, and is considered one of the best comedies of all time.
6. A Christmas Story (1983) – “A Christmas Story” is a 1983 comedy directed by Bob Clark and written by Jean Shepherd and Leigh Brown. It stars Peter Billingsley as Ralphie Parker, a young boy growing up in Hammond, Indiana, in 1940. The film is based on Shepherd’s semi-autobiographical stories and recollections of his childhood, which were broadcast on his radio show, Jean Shepherd’s Christmas Story.
The film follows Ralphie as he tries to convince his parents to buy him a Red Ryder carbine-action, 200-shot Range Model air rifle for Christmas. Ralphie’s desire for the gun is met with resistance from his mother, who is concerned that he will shoot his eye out, and his father, who thinks the gun is too dangerous. Ralphie also faces opposition from his older brother, Randy, who doesn’t think he deserves the gun.
Despite the obstacles, Ralphie never gives up on his dream of getting the Red Ryder BB gun. He writes letters to Santa Claus, begs his parents, and even tries to win the gun by shooting at a store Santa’s target. In the end, Ralphie’s perseverance pays off and he gets the gun he so desired.
7. Beverly Hills Cop (1984) – “Beverly Hills Cop” is an action-comedy from 1984 directed by Martin Brest and starring Eddie Murphy as Detroit police detective Axel Foley. The movie follows Foley as he travels to Beverly Hills to investigate the murder of his friend and uncovers a larger criminal conspiracy.
The plot is driven by Foley’s encounters with the Beverly Hills police department, who are initially skeptical of his presence and methods, and his investigation of a wealthy art dealer who may be involved in his friend’s murder. Along the way, Foley uses his street smarts and quick wit to outsmart the villains and win over his skeptical colleagues.
8. National Lampoon’s Vacation (1983) – “National Lampoon’s Vacation” is a 1983 comedy directed by Harold Ramis and starring Chevy Chase, Beverly D’Angelo, Imogene Coca, Randy Quaid, John Candy, and Christie Brinkley. The screenplay was written by John Hughes, based on his short story “Vacation ’58”, which appeared in National Lampoon magazine. The film follows the Griswold family as they take a cross-country road trip from their home in Chicago to the California theme park Walley World.
The film was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $60 million at the box office. The film follows the Griswold family as they embark on a cross-country road trip to Walley World, a fictional amusement park in California. The family consists of patriarch Clark Griswold (Chevy Chase), his wife Ellen (Beverly D’Angelo), and their two children, Rusty (Dana Barron) and Audrey (Elaine Miles).
The Griswolds’ trip is plagued by a series of mishaps, including a flat tire, a broken-down car, and a run-in with a group of hillbillies. However, they eventually make it to Walley World, only to find it closed…
9. Raising Arizona (1987) – “Raising Arizona” is a 1987 movie written and directed by the Coen brothers and starring Nicolas Cage, Holly Hunter, John Goodman, Frances McDormand, and William Forsythe. The film follows a small-time crook (Cage) and his cop wife (Hunter) who, unable to have children, kidnap one of a quintuplets born to a wealthy businessman (Forsythe).
The film was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $29 million at the box office. The film has since become a cult classic, and is considered one of the best comedies of the 1980s.
The film is set in Arizona and follows the story of H.I. McDunnough (Cage), a small-time crook who is in love with Edwina “Ed” McDunnough (Hunter), a police officer. H.I. and Ed are unable to have children, so they decide to kidnap one of a set of quintuplets born to Nathan Arizona (Forsythe), a wealthy furniture magnate.
The film follows the McDunnoughs as they try to raise the baby, whom they name Nathan Junior.
10. Coming to America (1988) – “Coming to America” is a 1988 movie directed by John Landis and starring Eddie Murphy, Arsenio Hall, and James Earl Jones. The movie follows the story of Prince Akeem of the fictional African kingdom of Zamunda, who travels to Queens, New York City to find a bride who will love him for who he is, rather than his wealth and title.
The film is known for its humor, which combines Murphy’s trademark wit and physical comedy with clever social commentary. Murphy and Hall play multiple roles, including barbers, preachers, and club owners, with hilarious results. The movie also features a strong supporting cast, including John Amos, Shari Headley, and Samuel L. Jackson.
The barbershop scenes are the absolute best, and here’s a look at all of them in one video!
On September 5, 1980, the late David Bowie performed two of his biggest hits at the time, Life on Mars and Ashes to Ashes on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. “Life on Mars” is a song that was released on Bowie’s 1971 album “Hunky Dory”.
The lyrics of the song describe a young girl named “Sailors” who is watching a film and daydreaming about a better life on Mars. The song explores themes of escapism, disillusionment, and the search for meaning in a world that can often seem overwhelming and confusing.
Bowie himself has said that the song was inspired by his own experiences of feeling lost and disillusioned in the early 1970s, as well as by the science fiction films and television shows that he enjoyed watching as a child.
“Life on Mars” has since become one of Bowie’s most iconic and enduring songs, with its influence felt across multiple genres of music and popular culture. The song has been covered by many artists over the years, and continues to be celebrated as a masterpiece of songwriting and musical innovation.
“Ashes to Ashes” was released in 1980 on his album “Scary Monsters (And Super Creeps)”.
The lyrics of “Ashes to Ashes” describe the character of Major Tom, a fictional astronaut who was first introduced in Bowie’s earlier song “Space Oddity”. In this song, Major Tom is described as a drug addict who has returned to Earth and is struggling to come to terms with the changes that he sees in the world around him.
The song’s title is a reference to the Christian funeral liturgy which includes the phrase “ashes to ashes, dust to dust”. Bowie has said that the song was inspired by his own experiences of drug addiction and his efforts to overcome his addiction.
The music video for “Ashes to Ashes” was also highly influential and is often cited as one of the greatest music videos of all time. The video features Bowie in a variety of surreal and dreamlike settings, and includes iconic images such as the Pierrot costume that Bowie wears in the video.
Enjoy this look back at David Bowie performing “Life on Mars” and “Ashes to Ashes” live on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson in 1980 as well as a look at Bowie’s aforementioned music video for “Ashes To Ashes”!
During a 1984 interview, David Lee Roth talked about how Eddie (or Edward as Roth calls him) and Alex used to get into fights all the time during the early days of Van Halen. If you’ve got an older or younger brother, I’m sure you can relate to this. Enjoy this little story from David Lee Roth about the time Alex started pounding on Eddie, but he took care to do one thing while he was punching him. I think you’ll get a kick out of this one!
Rick Springfield is an Australian-American singer, songwriter, musician, and actor who rose to fame in the 1980s. He was born on August 23, 1949, in Sydney, Australia, and began playing music at a young age.
Springfield first gained popularity in the 1970s with his hit song “Speak to the Sky.” He then achieved international success in the early 1980s with his album “Working Class Dog,” which featured the hit songs “Jessie’s Girl,” “I’ve Done Everything for You,” and “Love is Alright Tonight.” The album was a commercial success, reaching No. 7 on the Billboard 200 chart and eventually going platinum.
Springfield continued to release successful albums throughout the 1980s, including “Success Hasn’t Spoiled Me Yet” (1982), “Living in Oz” (1983), and “Tao” (1985). He also had several hit singles during this time, including “Don’t Talk to Strangers,” “Affair of the Heart,” and “Love Somebody.”
In addition to his music career, Springfield has also acted in television shows and films. He is perhaps best known for his role as Dr. Noah Drake on the daytime soap opera “General Hospital,” which he played on and off from 1981 to 2018. He has also appeared in movies such as “Hard to Hold” (1984) and “Ricki and the Flash” (2015).
Throughout his career, Springfield has won numerous awards, including a Grammy Award for Best Male Rock Vocal Performance in 1982 for “Jessie’s Girl.” He has also been inducted into the Australian Recording Industry Association Hall of Fame and the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Enjoy this look back at Rick Springfield performing some of his biggest hits from the ’80s!
Jack Nicklaus winning the 1986 Masters golf tournament is considered one of the greatest moments in the history of the sport. Nicklaus was 46 years old at the time and many believed that his best years were behind him. However, he played some of the finest golf of his career over the four days of the tournament to claim his sixth Masters title and 18th major championship overall.
Nicklaus started the final round four shots behind the leader, Greg Norman, but he made a charge with birdies on holes 9, 10, 11, and 13 to move into contention. He then holed a remarkable 45-foot putt for birdie on the 16th hole, which is now known as the “shot heard ’round the world,” to take the lead.
Despite a bogey on the 17th hole, Nicklaus held his nerve and parred the 18th to finish with a score of 65, 6-under-par for the day and a total of 9-under-par for the tournament. This was good enough for a one-shot victory over Norman and Tom Kite.
Nicklaus’ victory in 1986 made him the oldest winner of the Masters and at the time, the second-oldest winner of a major championship, behind only Julius Boros, who won the PGA Championship in 1968 at the age of 48. It was also his first major championship win in six years and cemented his status as one of the greatest golfers of all time.
On the eve of The Masters, let’s take a look back at Jack’s amazing performance during his final round at the 1986 Masters golf tournament!
Stryper is an American Christian metal band that formed in Orange County, California, in the early 1980s. The band’s lineup consisted of Michael Sweet on vocals and guitar, Oz Fox on guitar, Timothy Gaines on bass, and Robert Sweet on drums.
Stryper gained popularity in the 1980s with their signature yellow and black spandex outfits and their unique blend of heavy metal and Christian lyrics. They released their debut album, “The Yellow and Black Attack,” in 1984, which was a success and established them as a prominent band in the Christian metal scene.
Their follow-up album, “Soldiers Under Command,” was released in 1985 and went on to sell over half a million copies, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Top Inspirational Albums chart. Stryper’s success continued with subsequent albums such as “To Hell with the Devil” (1986) and “In God We Trust” (1988), both of which went platinum.
The band faced some criticism from the secular music industry for their Christian beliefs, but they continued to gain a devoted fanbase throughout the 1980s. They also faced some controversy for their use of Christian imagery and themes in their music, which some felt was too heavy-handed.
Stryper’s popularity waned in the early 1990s as the musical landscape shifted, but they continued to release albums and tour throughout the decade and into the 2000s. They disbanded in 1992 but reunited in 1999 and have been active ever since, releasing new music and touring regularly.
Overall, Stryper remains an important band in the history of Christian rock and heavy metal, and their influence can still be heard in the music of many contemporary Christian metal bands.
Here are some of the key moments in Stryper’s history:
Here’s a look at Stryper performing some of their biggest hits live back in the day and later in their career. Enjoy!
Here are the top 10 most popular baby names of the 1980s in the United States*:
For girls, the top 10 most popular baby names of the 1980s were:
These names were popular for a variety of reasons, including the popularity of certain celebrities, the release of popular movies and television shows, and the changing cultural landscape.
According to the Social Security’s website, there were 19,241,335 male births and 18,457,513 female births during the 80s. Here’s a look at the exact numbers of the top ten most popular names:
*Data via the Social Security website at ssa.gov.
The 1980s were a decade of great change and upheaval, but they were also a time of great creativity and innovation. Here are 10 memorable moments from the ’80s:
These are just a few of the many memorable moments from the ’80s. It was a decade of great change and upheaval, but it was also a time of great creativity and innovation. The ’80s were a decade that ruled, and their legacy continues to live on today.
Can’t Buy Me Love is one of my favorite movies from the ’80s, and Cindy Mancini, played by Amanda Peterson, was one of my favorite characters from the movie that was released in 1987. Peterson also starred as Sunny Sisk in the 1986 miniseries A Year In The Life, which landed her the starring role as Sisk in the the TV series of the same name. A Year in the Life ran for one season in 1987-1988 before being canceled.
In 1986, she was cast alongside Patrick Dempsey in the teen comedy Boy Rents Girl. The film was shot on location in Tucson, AZ, and the title was later changed to Can’t Buy Me Love after the producers secured the rights to the Beatles’ 1964 song of the same name. Can’t Buy Me Love was released in 1987 and became a surprise hit of the summer, and both Dempsey and Peterson became ’80s teen idols.
In this interview from 1987, Peterson talks about the film as well as what her real life is like in Greeley, CO now that she’s famous and “popular”. Sadly, Peterson passed away in 2015 of an accidental drug overdose. A coroner’s report determined that Peterson died of an accidental drug overdose. According to reports, she had undergone a hysterectomy shortly before her death, and she was prescribed a drug called Gabapentin for pain management. It was reported that she was also taking morphine that she had obtained from a friend a week before she died, and the coroner’s report concluded a “morphine effect” triggered respiratory failure that led to her death. She was only 43 years old when she died on July 3, 2015.
Don’t get me wrong, I love my life today, but when I think back to my childhood and teen years, which were the late ’70s and the ’80s, I truly believe that growing up was so much more fun, simple, and enjoyable back then than it is now. To prove my point, here are ten reasons why it was great to grow up in the ’80s:
