The 80s

The 80’s were very important years in music history. Known as the “decade of excess,” the 80’s brought a more visual experience to music. From fireworks at concerts to MTV, the 80’s made sitting next to the radio a thing of the past. Musicians became more into their image than ever before. The 60’s were the natural, feel good music era. The 70’s were the dance crazed disco era. By the time the 80’s rolled around, people needed something new and crazy. People’s hair was outrageous, and the 80’s got the name, “the big hair decade” from this. Bright colors and flashy clothes were also the craze. Hair and clothes were a direct reflection of the music people listened to. “I WANT MY MTV!!” was the cry from thousands of teens during the 80’s. MTV, otherwise known as music television, brought videos along with music to TV. MTV brought the artist closer to their fans.

Later on during the 80's Pop music became popular. Pop was music that everyone could enjoy with its catchy beats and tunes. Michael Jackson paved the way of Pop music, and earned the name, "King of Pop." His amazing dance moves and singing ability made him one of the best known artists in the world. His albums and songs broke many music records and set Pop music as a strong force in the industry. Artists today like Nsync, Backstreet Boys, Brittney Spears, and others became popular of the same music Jackson made 10 years before.

The music video brought a new style of life to people's homes. Hair and clothing were very much affected but also cars, sports, and other subjects were also affected. After seeing rock stars drive American muscle cars in their videos, people went and bought Mustangs, Nova's, T-birds, and Corvette's. Even sports stars wanted a part of music. Many athletes would be in videos to show their supp

After getting almost all the airtime on MTV, Rock and Roll became more diversified. MTV became a place where unknown artists could become huge. Artists like Bruce Springsteen, Van Halen, and...