The Golden Age of Music Videos
The 1980s were the heyday of music videos, and for good reason. With the rise of MTV (Music Television), music videos became a staple of popular culture. Artists were given a platform to showcase their creativity, and the genre exploded with innovative storytelling, dazzling visuals, and catchy tunes. In this article, we’ll take a trip down memory lane and revisit the 20 best 80’s music videos that are still mind-blowing today.
1. Duran Duran – “Girls on Film” (1981)
Directed by Godley & Creme, this pioneering video set the tone for the decade’s music video landscape. The black and white, high-fashion aesthetic is still breathtaking today.
2. The Police – “Every Breath You Take” (1983)
Starring Tim Pope, this haunting video won the MTV Video Music Award for Best Concept Video. The song’s intense, atmospheric vibe is perfectly complemented by the video’s moody, cinematic style.
3. Prince – “When Doves Cry” (1984)
Directed by Prince himself, this iconic video showcases the artist’s versatility as a musician, dancer, and filmmaker. The androgynous costume design and avant-garde choreography continue to inspire.
4. Madonna – “Like a Virgin” (1984)
Norman Lear’s direction of this video cemented Madonna’s status as the Queen of Pop. The song’s innocent, naïve lyrics are juxtaposed with Madonna’s provocative performance, making it a quintessential 80’s moment.
5. A-ha – “Take on Me” (1985)
This groundbreaking video by Steve Barron features the pioneering use of rotoscoping, an animation technique that blends live-action and animation. The result is a breathtakingly futuristic visual experience.
6. Wham! – “Careless Whisper” (1984)
Directed by Charlie Lightening, this video showcases the late George Michael’s soulful vocals and soaring falsetto. The iconic saxophone riff and stylish outfits make it a timeless classic.
7. Cyndi Lauper – “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” (1983)
This joyous video by Edd Griles features Cyndi Lauper’s signature quirky style and colorful outfits. The song’s empowering message and catchy melody make it an 80’s anthem.
8. Bon Jovi – “Wanted Dead or Alive” (1986)
Directed by Wayne Isham, this video showcases Bon Jovi’s anthemic songwriting and Jon Bon Jovi’s charismatic stage presence. The guitar riffs and sweeping vistas evoke a sense of classic rock grandeur.
9. The Cure – “Just Like Heaven” (1987)
Tim Pope’s direction brings Robert Smith’s poetic lyrics to life with a dreamlike, gothic atmosphere. The video’s subtle special effects and haunting visuals continue to captivate.
10. INXS – “Need You Tonight” (1987)
Directed by Ian Foley, this sultry video features INXS’s sultry, seductive performance and sensual choreography. The song’s catchy, new wave-inspired melody is irresistible.
11. Guns N’ Roses – “November Rain” (1989)
This epic video by Andy Morahan features Guns N’ Roses’s iconic ballad and Axl Rose’s powerful vocals. The sweeping vistas, dramatic lighting, and emotional performances make it a 90-minute epic.
12. Depeche Mode – “Personal Jesus” (1989)
Starring Anton Corbijn, this haunting video explores themes of faith, temptation, and redemption. The song’s brooding atmosphere and cryptic lyrics are perfectly complemented by the video’s dark, edgy aesthetic.
13. The Bangles – “Walk Like an Egyptian” (1986)
Directed by Robert Benavides, this whimsical video features the Bangles’ playful, new wave-inspired sound and colorful outfits. The song’s catchy chorus and quirky performance make it an 80’s guilty pleasure.
14. Madonna – “Vogue” (1990)
This iconic video by David Fincher features Madonna’s homage to the golden age of Hollywood and the House of Style. The video’s avant-garde choreography and striking visuals continue to inspire.
15. U2 – “Where the Streets Have No Name” (1987)
Directed by Meiert Avis, this breathtaking video captures U2’s anthemic performance and the iconic Joshua Tree backdrop. The song’s soaring vocals and guitar riffs evoke a sense of epic scope.
16. Tears for Fears – “Shout” (1985)
Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith’s songwriting is showcased in this energetic video by Nigel Dick. The song’s catchy chorus and nostalgic lyrics make it an 80’s anthem.
17. Peter Gabriel – “Sledgehammer” (1986)
Directed by Stephen R. Johnson, this groundbreaking video features groundbreaking special effects and innovative storytelling. Gabriel’s iconic red hair and piercing eyes make it an unforgettable performance.
18. Simple Minds – “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” (1985)
Starring the film’s iconic prom scene, this video by Tim Pope perfectly captures the film’s themes of nostalgia, friendship, and heartbreak. The song’s anthemic chorus and soaring vocals continue to inspire.
19. The Pretenders – “Back on the Chain Gang” (1982)
Directed by Tim Pope, this poignant video explores themes of love, loss, and reunion. The song’s catchy melody and emotional performance make it an 80’s classic.
20. Yes – “Owner of a Lonely Heart” (1983)
Starring Trevor Rabin, this futuristic video by Brian Thompson features Yes’s iconic progressive rock sound and innovative special effects. The video’s colorful, neon-lit visuals continue to captivate.
A Conclusion
These 20 music videos represent the best of the 80’s, a decade marked by innovation, creativity, and a boundless enthusiasm for music. From iconic performances to groundbreaking special effects, each video has stood the test of time and continues to inspire new generations of music lovers.
FAQs
Q: What is the most iconic music video of the 80’s?
A: The most iconic music video of the 80’s is likely Madonna’s “Like a Virgin” (1984), directed by Norman Lear.
Q: Who was the most influential music video director of the 80’s?
A: Tim Pope, who directed videos for Duran Duran, The Cure, and Simple Minds, among others, is often cited as the most influential music video director of the 80’s.
Q: What was the most popular music video channel of the 80’s?
A: MTV (Music Television) was the most popular music video channel of the 80’s, launching in 1981 and changing the face of popular music.
Q: What was the most iconic fashion trend of the 80’s music video era?
A: Big hair, neon colors, and radical fashion trends were all the rage in the 80’s music video era, with icons like Duran Duran, Prince, and Madonna leading the charge.
