Music
Synths, power ballads, and MTV
The 80s invented the music video, perfected the synth pop hook, and gave us hair that defied gravity. These are the tracks and artists that defined the sound.
Thriller — Michael Jackson
The best-selling album of all time. Thriller, Billie Jean, Beat It — every track a smash.
Purple Rain — Prince
Part album, part film, all genius. Prince at his most iconic and unapologetic.
Sweet Child O' Mine — Guns N' Roses
That opening riff. Slash made it look effortless, Axl made it sound dangerous.
Take On Me — a-ha
The synth riff that launched a thousand covers, and a music video that was pure rotoscoped art.
Don't Stop Believin' — Journey
A small-town girl, a city boy, and the most karaoke'd song in human history.
Blue Monday — New Order
The best-selling 12-inch single of all time. Electronic music's ground zero.
Under Pressure — Queen & David Bowie
Two legends in the studio, one unforgettable bassline. Collaboration doesn't get better.