80s Music Icons’ Influence on Today’s Artists

80s Music Icons’ Influence on Today’s Artists

The 1980s was a decade of bold styles, vibrant colors, and iconic music that continues to influence today's artists. From pop to rock to hip-hop, the 80s left an indelible mark on the music industry. In this blog, we explore the lasting legacy of 80s music icons and how their influence is still evident in contemporary music. So, grab your denim jacket, put on your aviator sunglasses, and let's take a trip down memory lane with Newretro.Net, your go-to for all things retro.

Introduction to 80s Music Icons

The 1980s was a time of significant change and innovation in the music world. Artists like Michael Jackson, Madonna, and Prince dominated the charts with their groundbreaking sounds and unforgettable performances. These icons not only defined the music of the era but also set the stage for future generations of artists.

  • Michael Jackson: Known as the King of Pop, Michael Jackson's influence is unparalleled. His album "Thriller" remains the best-selling album of all time, and his innovative music videos revolutionized the industry.
  • Madonna: The Queen of Pop, Madonna pushed boundaries with her music, fashion, and persona. Her ability to reinvent herself has inspired countless artists.
  • Prince: A musical genius, Prince's eclectic style and mastery of multiple instruments made him a unique and influential figure.

The Legacy of 80s Pop Stars

The impact of 80s pop stars can still be felt in today's music scene. Modern pop artists often cite these legends as their inspirations, and it's easy to see why.

  • Performance and Persona: Today's artists like Lady Gaga and Beyoncé draw heavily from the theatrical performances and larger-than-life personas of 80s icons.
  • Fashion: The bold and experimental fashion of the 80s continues to inspire modern trends. Our collection at Newretro.Net offers a perfect blend of retro and contemporary styles, ensuring you look as iconic as your favorite 80s star.

How 80s Rock Bands Shaped Modern Music

The 80s rock scene was diverse and influential, with bands like U2, Guns N' Roses, and Bon Jovi setting the tone for future rock music. These bands not only defined a generation but also paved the way for modern rock bands.

  • Sound and Style: The anthemic sound and stage presence of 80s rock bands are evident in the music of bands like Foo Fighters and Muse.
  • Lyrics and Themes: Themes of rebellion, love, and life's struggles, prominent in 80s rock, continue to resonate with today's artists.

80s Hip Hop Pioneers and Their Modern Counterparts

The 80s was also a pivotal decade for hip hop, with pioneers like Run-D.M.C., LL Cool J, and Public Enemy laying the groundwork for the genre's explosion.

  • Run-D.M.C.: Their fusion of hip hop and rock, especially with tracks like "Walk This Way," broadened the genre's appeal and influenced artists like Jay-Z and Kanye West.
  • LL Cool J: Known for his charisma and lyrical prowess, LL Cool J set a standard for future rappers with his combination of hardcore rap and love ballads.
  • Public Enemy: Their socially conscious lyrics and powerful performances have inspired modern artists like Kendrick Lamar and J. Cole to use their platforms for activism.

Synthwave: Revival of 80s Electronic Music

One of the most notable revivals from the 80s is the resurgence of synthwave. This genre, characterized by its heavy use of synthesizers and nostalgic feel, has made a significant comeback.

  • Influence on Modern Music: Synthwave has found its way into mainstream music, influencing artists like The Weeknd and Dua Lipa.
  • Cultural Impact: The retro-futuristic aesthetic of synthwave is not just limited to music. It has influenced fashion, design, and even video games. At Newretro.Net, we embrace this aesthetic with our line of retro-inspired clothing and accessories, perfect for anyone looking to channel their inner 80s icon.

The 80s was a decade of musical innovation and cultural milestones. The icons of this era have left a legacy that continues to shape and inspire today's artists. Whether it's the groundbreaking performances of pop legends, the rebellious spirit of rock bands, or the pioneering efforts of hip hop's first stars, the influence of the 80s is undeniable. And with the revival of synthwave, the sounds of the 80s are as relevant as ever. So, as you explore your own style and musical tastes, don't forget to check out Newretro.Net for the perfect retro-inspired pieces to complete your look. Stay tuned for more on how the fashion and music videos of the 80s continue to inspire today's artists in the next part of our blog.

80s Fashion Trends in Today's Music Videos

The 80s was not just about music; it was also a decade of unforgettable fashion. The bold styles of the era have made a remarkable comeback in today's music videos, blending nostalgia with modern flair.

  • Bright Colors and Bold Patterns: Think of the neon colors and daring patterns that were hallmarks of 80s fashion. Modern artists like Dua Lipa and Harry Styles often incorporate these elements into their videos, creating a vibrant, eye-catching aesthetic.
  • Iconic Accessories: From oversized sunglasses to chunky jewelry, the accessories that defined 80s fashion are back. Check out Newretro.Net for a range of retro-inspired sunglasses and watches that can help you recreate these iconic looks.

Iconic 80s Music Videos That Still Inspire

Music videos in the 80s were groundbreaking, combining innovative visuals with storytelling. Many of these videos continue to inspire contemporary artists and directors.

  • Michael Jackson's "Thriller": Perhaps the most iconic music video of all time, "Thriller" set the standard for storytelling in music videos. Its influence can be seen in modern videos that blend music with cinematic elements.
  • A-ha's "Take On Me": The innovative use of rotoscoping animation in "Take On Me" has inspired countless artists to experiment with different visual styles in their videos.
  • Madonna's "Like a Prayer": Known for its controversial and bold imagery, this video pushed the boundaries of what was acceptable in mainstream media. Today, artists continue to challenge norms and provoke thought through their music videos, much like Madonna did.

Songwriting Techniques from the 80s Used Today

The songwriting techniques developed in the 80s have left a lasting impact on the music industry. Many of these techniques are still used by songwriters today to create catchy, memorable songs.

  • Chorus Hooks: The 80s were known for their catchy chorus hooks that got stuck in your head. Modern pop songs often employ similar techniques to ensure their songs are just as memorable.
  • Synth-Based Melodies: Synthesizers were a staple of 80s music, and their use in creating unique melodies is a technique that has been revived in today's music. Artists like The Weeknd have successfully integrated synth-based melodies into their hits.

Modern Artists Covering 80s Hits

One of the clearest indicators of the 80s' enduring influence is the number of modern artists who cover 80s hits. These covers often bring a new twist to classic songs, introducing them to a new generation of listeners.

  • Tears for Fears' "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" by Lorde: Lorde's haunting cover of this 80s classic brought the song to a whole new audience, showcasing the timeless quality of the original.
  • Whitney Houston's "Higher Love" by Kygo: Norwegian DJ Kygo gave Whitney Houston's hit a modern makeover, blending electronic beats with her powerful vocals.
  • A-ha's "Take On Me" by Weezer: Weezer's faithful cover of this 80s hit brought the song back into the spotlight, proving its enduring popularity.

Conclusion: The Enduring Influence of 80s Music Icons

The influence of 80s music icons is undeniable. Their contributions to music, fashion, and culture have left an indelible mark that continues to inspire today's artists. Whether it's the catchy hooks of 80s pop, the rebellious spirit of rock, or the pioneering efforts of hip hop, the legacy of the 80s is alive and well.

At Newretro.Net, we celebrate this legacy by offering a range of retro-inspired clothing and accessories that pay homage to the style and spirit of the 80s. Our collection includes denim and leather jackets, sneakers, sunglasses, and watches that capture the essence of this iconic decade.

So, as you explore the music and fashion of the 80s, remember that you can bring a piece of that era into your own life with Newretro.Net. Embrace the bold, the vibrant, and the unforgettable – just like the music icons of the 80s.


Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published

This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.


You may also like

View all
Example blog post
Example blog post
Example blog post