My theory is that there are many different eightieses that were all happening at the same time.
I was aware of an 80s that was dominated by slick synth-pop (e.g., Duran Duran, Eurhythmics, New Order, Depeche Mode).
I was aware of an 80s that was dominated by earnest white-t-shirt guitar rock (e.g., Springsteen, Pretenders, John Melonhead, Bryan Adams).
I was aware of an 80s that was dominated by the last gasps of disco(e.g., Donna Summer, KC & the Sunshine Band).
I was aware of an 80s that was dominated by novelty pop acts (e.g., Cyndi Lauper, Culture Club, "Hey Mickey," Milli Vanilli).
I was aware of an 80s that was dominated by a few standout pop stars (e.g., Michael Jackson and Madonna).
I was aware of an 80s that was dominated by the kinder, gentler face of late-70s punk (the Clash of "Should I Stay or Should I Go," early Police, the Elvis Costello of "Everyday I Write the Book").
I was aware of an 80s that was dominated by Suburban Lite Metal (e.g., Van Halen, Guns & Roses, Motley Crue, Def Leppard).
I was aware of an 80s that was dominated by something called "New Wave" (e.g., Flock of Seagulls, Soft Cell, Psychedelic Furs, Thomas Dolby).
Because I grew up in a black, though suburban, neighborhood, I was also aware of an 80s that was dominated by a watered-down transitional R&B (e.g., Commodores, Tavares, Kool & the Gang).
Which of these is true? All of them. None of them. And all have camp and non-camp elements.
― The Mad Puffin, Thursday, 3 March 2005 00:35 (twenty years ago)