Needless to say, the 80s came out as a shocking surprise to some people. AIDS, the attempt to assassinate the pope, as well as the explosion of the space shuttle, "The Challenger" marked one of the gruesome memories of the decade. But on a more positive note, the 80s also witnessed the fairytale wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana, the invention of the Internet, and the launch of music videos. The best music of the 80s also came with the inclusion of new wave and big hair bands in the music mainstream.
The biggest names in the pop music industry today were introduced sometime in the 1980s. Michael Jackson and Madonna were instant hit makers who introduced a new pop sensation. As such, do you know that "Thriller" was one of the best-selling albums of all time? This single that came out in 1982 sold more than 100 million copies worldwide. From sleek jackets to single-hand gloves, the King of Pop also influenced a craze for unique dance steps such as the "moonwalk."
New wave also turned into a music phenomenon. Duran Duran and Tears for Fears were only some of the artists who made it big with this brand of music. Popular groups of artists also recorded songs for a charitable cause. "We are the World" and "Do They Know It's Christmas?" are memorable music compilations of the 1980s that had its impact worldwide.
Big hair bands in tight pants were also among the biggest news makers in the 1980s. Guns 'N Roses, Bon Jovi, Van Halen, Queen, and AC/DC all enjoyed a successful airplay on the radio. Their rock concerts were flooded by screaming fans, while most of their songs were also seen on MTV.
The best of 80s music was also heard from Whitney Houston, Laura Branigan, Lionel Richie, Bryan Adams, U2, Janet Jackson, and Prince.
