During my formative years, I spent countless hours glued to the screen of MTV, indulging in a can of Pringles and sipping on Fresca. (Back then, binge-watching was simply referred to as “never leaving the couch.”) As a child, I absorbed music videos without questioning them—what prompted one member of the Pet Shop Boys to remain idle or why Michael Jackson felt compelled to perform dance numbers in graveyards never crossed my mind. However, now that I’ve had a few decades to reflect, I’ve developed some questions worth discussing. Below are 13 inquiries I have about 13 iconic ’80s music videos.
- Madonna, ‘Papa Don’t Preach’
What was it about that attractive guy that made her want to get involved with him despite the circumstances? - Bananarama, ‘Venus’
Where can I find those jeans? I believe I could pull off that look again. - Culture Club, ‘Karma Chameleon’
What on earth is Boy George doing on a riverboat from the 1870s? How does a riverboat card player connect to the colors red, gold, and green? - Pet Shop Boys, ‘West End Girls’
Why does the second Pet Shop Boy seem to have no role in this video? I often imagine he’s silently asking, “is it my turn to sing yet?” - Cyndi Lauper, ‘Girls Just Want to Have Fun’
Did anyone in the ’80s have a wardrobe that could rival Cyndi Lauper’s? Just look at that pink dress—I’d wear it today. - Richard Marx, ‘Right Here Waiting’
This is puzzling. What is he actually saying? He’s certainly not waiting for anyone; he’s on an international tour surrounded by adoring fans. This seems to be more of an ode to Richard Marx’s self-importance. Yet, this song remains a nostalgic memory from my 10th grade. - A-ha, ‘Take On Me’
What causes the waitress to crumple the comic, leading to the return of the antagonists? - Survivor, ‘Eye Of the Tiger’
Why do they appear so furious? Aren’t they simply en route to band practice? - Men at Work, ‘Down Under’
Are they applying sunscreen, or are they just taking a risk? - Irene Cara, ‘Flashdance…What a Feeling’
Is it too late for me to pick up welding skills? - Michael Jackson, ‘Thriller’
As much as I adore this video, why is it so lengthy? Can you believe we once endured the first five to eight minutes without the luxury of fast-forward? - Rick Astley, ‘Never Gonna Give You Up’
How many different outfits does he showcase in this video? - Starship, ‘We Built This City’
Can you believe Grace Slick is now 75 years old?
These are just the initial 13 questions. There are countless others to ponder, like “Sweet Child O’ Mine” or “Another One Bites the Dust.” Excuse me while I grab my Fresca and Pringles!
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Summary:
This article explores various intriguing facets of 13 iconic music videos from the 1980s, posing questions that reflect a deeper curiosity about their themes, visuals, and cultural significance.