Clash of the 80’s Music Video Titans
Growing up in the 1980s was an absolutely magical experience, musically speaking of course.
Anyone who knows me can tell you that I am a huge 80’s music fan. The 80’s perfectly blended pop, rock, new wave, and r&b on almost every station on the radio. I had no use back in those carefree days for the likes of 60’s-70’s classic, progressive or psychedelic rock.
It’s funny to now hear the songs of my youth played on the classic rock and oldies stations though, but that’s a topic for another time.
The ’80s saw greats such as Duran Duran and Madonna bursting onto the charts – and they remain chart toppers to this day! Prince and Michael Jackson got their original start in the mid-to-late 1970s but became musical powerhouses in the ’80s.
I’m almost certain that if Michael Jackson were alive today, he would still top the charts! His music was and still is timeless.
MTV showed videos back in those days – that’s right kids, the M really did mean music!
The only reality shows we cared about were American Bandstand, Dance Party USA, and Soul Train. I often dreamed of being on American Bandstand, of course with Duran Duran as the guest band! For those who didn’t have the privilege of cable TV, we had to wait until Friday and watch Friday Night Videos, or watch MTV at a friend’s house.
I was an MTV addict. I didn’t have cable at home, but that didn’t matter. I was almost never home as a teenager – and my friends had cable. I loved watching music videos. I brought blank VHS tapes over and would record hours of MTV so I could experience it at home when Mom-ster and dad weren’t around.
Music was my life.
One of my biggest dreams as a teen was to be a band photographer since I couldn’t play guitar, bass, keys, or drums. I wanted to be close to the heartbeat of a band and chronicle their travels and lives. Being a photographer would get me up close and personal with the bands.
While I didn’t get to the “big time” with my dream, I am happy to say I have photographed bands – local cover bands mostly. I love it. It’s one of the joys of my adult life.
But I digress…
The ’80s were one of the most innovative times for music with the birth of MTV. Each music video created a story to go along with the songs. Days, weeks, and sometimes months’ worth of work would go into creating the perfect 3-5 minute music video.
Some artists had characters who appeared in more than one music video, creating almost a continuing story of sorts, like the 80’s metal hairband, Cinderella. They had two chicks wearing 80’s appropriate mini skirts with polka dots – I called them the evil polka dot step-sisters – who appeared in quite a few of their videos.
The list of bands who shaped and altered the craft and art of the music video could go on endlessly, however, I do believe that the following four bands/artists nailed it.
Duran Duran
Madonna
Michael Jackson
Prince
Here’s the fun part…
Out of these 4 bands/artists mentioned, which one do you think was the absolute BEST of the 80’s music video titans?
Cast your vote below in the comments!
I’m looking forward to seeing which band wins this Clash of the 80s Music Video Titans!
It is a toss up between Michael Jackson and Madonna. I love Duran Duran and Price also. You have picked some great songs and the best artists in the magical musical era of the 80’s. I would say Michael Jackson is/was my favorite. I would say the best number one group would be Duran Duran though.
Michael Jackson, hands down. “Thriller” was a movie. So much thought and time and choreography and people and makeup and costumes were put into it. It was more than just a music video. It was an experience. I received it as a Christmas present and consequently watched it over and over and over and over that Christmas day. All of his videos are amazing. The sidewalk that lights up as he takes each step in “Billie Jean” is iconic and brilliantly original and will always be connected to Michael. The imagery in videos like “Do You Remember the Time” and with sister Janet in “Scream” are exciting and beautiful to look at. And you know what? The actual music isn’t too shabby either. It’s got a beat and you can dance to it!
1980s Music Video Champion (in my book): Michael Joseph Jackson – Born August 29, 1958. Died June 25, 2009
Michael Jackson, hands down. I remember all the hype whenever one of his videos would come out. I was just a kid in the 80’s, but Thriller was one of the first Michael Jackson videos I ever saw on MTV. 🙂 Prince, Madonna, Duran Duran, etc… their talent is undisputed, but as far as music videos? Yeah, gotta give it to the king.
I don’t know about any of you, but I cried when I heard MJ died. I had musical MJ tributes when I DJ’d at the strip club – I drove the young strippers crazy with 3-4 in a row MJ songs! I loved it! His music is timeless.
Of course my vote is with Duran Duran, because I’m a die-hard Duranie…. but all 4 of these groups/singers remain at the top of my 80’s music playlist! 😉
While each of these artists played their part in making the 80’s unique. I think Madonna made the “most iconic”.
Duran Duran were iconic, they get my vote!
Duran Duran get my vote, no contest!
Duran Duran….hands down.
Duran Duran!!! What I love about them is that their music grew with their fans!! That is why we are so devoted!
I have to go with my boys from DD…love them then and now!
Duran Duran!
Duran Duran – Forever! 🙂
I would have to say Micheal Jackson’s Thriller. The was such an epic music video.