Why is 1980s Music Still Popular in the 21st Century?

Even though there are millions of songs available in the 21st century, it’s interesting to note that the songs from the 1980s are still popular even today.  It seems no matter how many decades pass, 1980s songs still remain in the mind of everyone young or old, male or female. So what is the reason for this? Why is the music from the 80s still very popular. Why do love songs of the 80s are still heard in movies and shows? Perhaps the reason for this is because the 1980s was a time of hopes and dreams and emotions and love and humanity is still trying to recapture those feelings in times of global conflicts, global warming, and economic troubles as well as the Covid19 pandemic. Does 1980s music represent those hopes and dreams?

Music from the ’80s has a particular flavor that is unique. A big part of that is due to the upgraded equipment that bands in the ’80s were able to use compared to those in the ’70s.

In the ’80s, the use of synthetic drums, VOX and auto-tuning, drone chords, and better amps became more and more popular. Cumulatively they contributed to the unique features of the sound during that time period.

Many fans of ’80s music feel that it had a much greater complexity – especially compared to modern music. The composition and lyrics of ’80s music often had more depth and diversity in terms of its style.

All bands and artists that were popular during the ’80s would bring something unique to the table that set them apart. Due to the competitiveness of the time, it was difficult to make a mark without being able to create music that was distinct and unique.

Another reason why many listeners often say they prefer ’80s music is because it was an era when singers could really sing. Although auto-tune was already starting to be used, most lead singers could hold a tune without it and often transcended the limits of the technology.

Of course, that isn’t to say that modern artists aren’t talented, but the contrast is often illustrated when by comparing to pop stars with very little musical talent.

It should be noted that another defining trait ’80s music is that its genres were more clearly defined. Some bands and artists did blend genres to a certain degree, but not to the extent of modern pop or rock where it is difficult to distinguish. While blending is not necessarily a bad thing, ’80s music fans seem to feel more comfortable with the boundaries of the genre.

Hence, singers from the 1980s such as Madonna, Roxette, Bangles, Michael Bolton, Bette Midler and Kenny G and many more have become legends in the hearts and minds of the public and they continue to be legends of music even today.