Totally Tubular: A Rad Guide to Reliving and Loving 80s Pop Culture
The 1980s. A decade of neon, big hair, and even bigger personalities. A cultural explosion of groundbreaking music, iconic films, and technological advancements that shaped the world we live in today. From the Walkman to MTV, the Rubik’s Cube to the Brat Pack, the 80s left an indelible mark on our collective consciousness. This guide will take you on a righteous journey through the decade, providing a detailed look at its most defining elements and offering tips on how to relive and embrace the radness of the 80s.
## Section 1: Setting the Stage – What Made the 80s So Special?
Before diving into the specifics, let’s understand the context. The 80s were a time of significant social and political shifts. The Cold War was still looming, but a sense of optimism and consumerism was taking hold. The rise of personal computers and the burgeoning internet (though not yet as we know it) hinted at the technological revolution to come. Ronald Reagan’s presidency ushered in an era of conservative values, but the decade also saw the emergence of powerful counter-cultures and artistic movements.
**Key Factors That Shaped the 80s:**
* **Technological Advancements:** The Walkman, the VCR, personal computers, and early mobile phones began to permeate society, changing how people consumed media and communicated.
* **Economic Growth:** A period of relative prosperity in the West fueled consumerism and a focus on material possessions.
* **Political Landscape:** The Cold War tension and the rise of conservative politics influenced social attitudes and cultural expressions.
* **The Rise of MTV:** A game-changer that transformed the music industry and popular culture, making music videos a vital art form.
## Section 2: Totally Awesome Tunes – The Music of the 80s
The 80s music scene was incredibly diverse and innovative, giving birth to genres and artists that continue to influence music today. Synthesizers reigned supreme, creating a unique and distinctive sound.
**Genres That Dominated the Airwaves:**
* **New Wave:** Think synth-pop, post-punk, and alternative rock. Artists like Depeche Mode, The Cure, Blondie, and Talking Heads defined the sound of the era with their catchy melodies and introspective lyrics.
* **Pop:** Michael Jackson, Madonna, Prince, and Whitney Houston became global icons, pushing the boundaries of pop music with their innovative sounds, elaborate music videos, and undeniable charisma.
* **Hair Metal/Glam Metal:** Bon Jovi, Guns N’ Roses, Mötley Crüe, and Poison brought a heavy dose of rock and roll with big hair, catchy hooks, and flamboyant stage presence.
* **Hip Hop:** Emerging from the underground, hip hop began to gain mainstream popularity with artists like Run-DMC, Public Enemy, and Salt-N-Pepa, bringing social commentary and infectious beats to the masses.
* **Synth-Pop:** Dominated by bands like Duran Duran, A-ha, and Eurythmics, this genre epitomized the sleek, futuristic sound of the decade.
**How to Relive the 80s Music Scene:**
1. **Create an 80s Playlist:** Start with the artists mentioned above and explore subgenres like new romantic, synth-pop, and early electronica. Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube are your best friends here.
2. **Watch 80s Music Videos:** Immerse yourself in the visual aesthetic of the era. MTV was king, and music videos were mini-movies. Look for iconic videos from Michael Jackson, Madonna, Prince, and Duran Duran.
3. **Attend an 80s-Themed Concert or Event:** Many bands from the 80s still tour, and there are countless tribute bands and themed parties that celebrate the music of the decade. Dress up in your best 80s attire and dance the night away!
4. **Learn to Play an 80s Instrument:** Dust off that keyboard or learn to play the drums. Synthesizers were a staple of 80s music, and experimenting with different sounds can be a fun way to connect with the era.
5. **Listen to 80s Radio Stations (Online):** Many online radio stations specialize in 80s music. This is a great way to discover new (or old) favorites and immerse yourself in the soundscape of the decade.
## Section 3: Movies That Made Us – The Cinematic Landscape of the 80s
The 80s were a golden age for blockbuster movies, iconic characters, and unforgettable storylines. From sci-fi epics to coming-of-age dramas, the decade produced films that continue to resonate with audiences today.
**Defining Movie Genres of the 80s:**
* **Sci-Fi:** *Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back*, *E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial*, *Blade Runner*, *Back to the Future*, *Aliens*, and *Tron* pushed the boundaries of special effects and storytelling, exploring themes of space exploration, artificial intelligence, and the future of humanity.
* **Action:** *Raiders of the Lost Ark*, *The Terminator*, *Rambo: First Blood*, *Die Hard* established action heroes and set the standard for high-octane thrills.
* **Comedy:** *The Breakfast Club*, *Ferris Bueller’s Day Off*, *National Lampoon’s Vacation*, *Ghostbusters* captured the teenage experience and delivered laugh-out-loud moments.
* **Drama:** *The Color Purple*, *Terms of Endearment*, *Rain Man* explored complex social issues and human relationships, earning critical acclaim and awards.
* **Fantasy:** *The Princess Bride*, *Labyrinth*, *Legend* transported audiences to magical worlds filled with adventure and wonder.
**How to Relive the 80s Movie Experience:**
1. **Host an 80s Movie Marathon:** Gather your friends, stock up on popcorn and snacks, and settle in for a night of classic 80s films. Encourage everyone to dress up as their favorite characters.
2. **Visit a Drive-In Movie Theater:** Experience cinema the old-fashioned way. Many drive-in theaters still operate and occasionally screen 80s classics.
3. **Collect 80s Movie Memorabilia:** Posters, action figures, and soundtracks can be a fun way to celebrate your favorite films. Search for vintage items at flea markets, antique stores, and online marketplaces.
4. **Recreate Iconic Movie Scenes:** Grab your friends and film yourselves recreating famous scenes from 80s movies. Share your creations on social media for a good laugh.
5. **Attend a Retro Movie Screening:** Many theaters host special screenings of classic movies, often with audience participation and themed events.
## Section 4: TV Shows That Defined a Generation – The Small Screen Sensations of the 80s
The 80s were a golden age for television, with sitcoms, dramas, and cartoons that captured the hearts and minds of viewers. The rise of cable television offered a wider variety of programming, catering to diverse tastes and interests.
**Iconic TV Shows of the 80s:**
* **Sitcoms:** *Cheers*, *The Cosby Show*, *Family Ties*, *Golden Girls*, *Married… with Children* provided humor and heartwarming stories about family, friendship, and everyday life.
* **Dramas:** *Miami Vice*, *Hill Street Blues*, *Dynasty*, *Dallas* offered glamorous escapism, gritty crime stories, and compelling character dramas.
* **Sci-Fi/Fantasy:** *The Twilight Zone* (revival), *V*, *Knight Rider* explored the boundaries of reality and imagination.
* **Cartoons:** *He-Man and the Masters of the Universe*, *Transformers*, *G.I. Joe*, *Thundercats*, *The Smurfs* entertained children with action-packed adventures and memorable characters.
**How to Relive the 80s TV Experience:**
1. **Binge-Watch 80s TV Shows:** Streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video offer a vast library of 80s TV shows. Spend an evening reliving your favorite episodes.
2. **Attend a Comic Con or Fan Convention:** Meet actors from your favorite 80s TV shows, attend panels, and get autographs.
3. **Create a Themed Costume:** Dress up as your favorite 80s TV character for Halloween or a themed party. *Miami Vice* detectives, *Dynasty* socialites, and *He-Man* warriors are all great options.
4. **Play 80s-Themed Board Games:** Many board games based on popular 80s TV shows were released during the decade. Dust off your old games or search for them online.
5. **Watch TV Commercials from the 80s:** YouTube is a treasure trove of vintage TV commercials. Relive the advertising landscape of the era and see how products were marketed to consumers.
## Section 5: Fashion and Style – Dressing the Part
The 80s fashion was bold, colorful, and often over-the-top. From neon colors and leg warmers to big hair and shoulder pads, the decade embraced individuality and self-expression.
**Key Fashion Trends of the 80s:**
* **Neon Colors:** Fluorescent pinks, greens, yellows, and oranges were everywhere, from clothing to accessories to makeup.
* **Leg Warmers:** Worn over tights or jeans, leg warmers were a must-have accessory for dancers and fashion enthusiasts alike.
* **Big Hair:** Teased, permed, and sprayed into gravity-defying styles, big hair was a symbol of 80s glamour.
* **Shoulder Pads:** Added to blouses, jackets, and dresses, shoulder pads created a broad-shouldered silhouette that was considered fashionable.
* **Acid Wash Denim:** Jeans and jackets were treated with acid to create a distressed, faded look.
* **Parachute Pants:** Baggy, nylon pants that were popular among breakdancers and fans of new wave music.
* **Jelly Shoes:** Colorful, translucent plastic shoes that were a fun and affordable footwear option.
* **Tracksuits:** Made popular by hip-hop artists and athletes, tracksuits were a comfortable and stylish choice for casual wear.
**How to Embrace 80s Fashion:**
1. **Visit a Thrift Store:** Search for vintage 80s clothing at thrift stores and consignment shops. You might find some hidden gems at bargain prices.
2. **Repurpose Vintage Clothing:** Give old 80s clothes a new lease on life by altering them or adding modern touches.
3. **Accessorize with 80s-Inspired Jewelry:** Chunky necklaces, oversized earrings, and brightly colored bracelets can add a touch of 80s flair to any outfit.
4. **Experiment with 80s Makeup:** Use bold eyeshadow colors, bright blush, and dramatic eyeliner to recreate the makeup looks of the decade.
5. **Style Your Hair in an 80s Fashion:** Tease your hair, add volume, and use hairspray to create a big, bold hairstyle. Consider getting a perm for a truly authentic 80s look.
## Section 6: Gadgets and Tech – The Dawn of the Digital Age
The 80s witnessed the rise of personal computers, video game consoles, and portable music players, transforming the way people lived, worked, and played.
**Iconic Gadgets of the 80s:**
* **The Walkman:** Revolutionized how people listened to music, allowing them to take their favorite tunes with them wherever they went.
* **Personal Computers:** The Apple II, the IBM PC, and the Commodore 64 brought computing power to homes and offices, paving the way for the digital age.
* **Video Game Consoles:** The Atari 2600, the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), and the Sega Master System brought arcade games into homes, sparking a video game craze.
* **The VCR (Video Cassette Recorder):** Allowed people to record and watch their favorite TV shows and movies at their convenience.
* **The Boombox:** A portable stereo system that was popular among teenagers and music enthusiasts.
* **Early Mobile Phones:** Bulky and expensive, but they represented the beginning of mobile communication.
**How to Relive the 80s Tech Experience:**
1. **Play Classic 80s Video Games:** Emulators and online platforms allow you to play classic arcade games and console games on your computer or mobile device.
2. **Collect Vintage Gadgets:** Search for vintage 80s gadgets at flea markets, antique stores, and online marketplaces. Restoring these gadgets can be a fun and rewarding project.
3. **Learn to Program on an 80s Computer:** Emulators can also be used to run 80s operating systems and programming languages. Learn to code like it’s 1985!
4. **Create an 80s-Themed Tech Display:** Showcase your collection of vintage gadgets and memorabilia in a display case or on a shelf.
5. **Use a Walkman (If You Can Find One):** Track down a working Walkman and listen to your favorite cassette tapes. It’s a truly nostalgic experience.
## Section 7: Slang and Catchphrases – Talk Like an 80s Dude (or Dudette)
The 80s had its own unique vocabulary of slang and catchphrases that reflected the decade’s attitudes and values. Learning these phrases can help you sound like a true 80s aficionado.
**Popular 80s Slang Terms:**
* **Awesome/Rad/Tubular:** Used to describe something that was excellent or cool.
* **Bodacious:** Attractive or impressive.
* **Gnarly:** Difficult, dangerous, or extreme.
* **Totally:** Absolutely, completely.
* **Bitchin’:** Excellent, outstanding.
* **Valley Girl:** A stereotypical young woman from the San Fernando Valley in California, known for her distinctive slang and fashion sense.
* **Gag Me With a Spoon:** An expression of disgust or boredom.
* **Like, Totally!:** Emphasizing a statement, often used by Valley Girls.
* **Wicked:** Cool, excellent (primarily on the East Coast).
* **Fresh:** Cool, stylish.
**How to Incorporate 80s Slang into Your Vocabulary:**
1. **Use Slang Sparingly:** Don’t overdo it! Using too much slang can sound forced and unnatural.
2. **Use Slang in the Right Context:** Consider the audience and the situation before using 80s slang.
3. **Watch 80s Movies and TV Shows:** Pay attention to how characters use slang in different situations.
4. **Practice with Friends:** Have fun experimenting with 80s slang with your friends.
5. **Mix 80s Slang with Modern Language:** Combine 80s slang with modern language to create a unique and humorous effect.
## Section 8: Games and Toys – Playing the 80s Way
From board games and action figures to video games and puzzles, the 80s offered a wide variety of toys and games that entertained children and adults alike.
**Popular Games and Toys of the 80s:**
* **Rubik’s Cube:** A colorful puzzle that challenged millions of people to solve its complex algorithm.
* **Cabbage Patch Kids:** Soft-sculpture dolls that became a massive collectible phenomenon.
* **Transformers:** Robots that could transform into vehicles, inspiring a popular animated series and toy line.
* **G.I. Joe Action Figures:** Highly detailed action figures that represented soldiers and military specialists.
* **My Little Pony:** Colorful ponies with long, flowing manes and tails that appealed to young girls.
* **Care Bears:** Plush bears with symbols on their bellies that represented different emotions.
* **Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles:** Turtle brothers trained in martial arts who fought crime in New York City.
* **Atari 2600 and NES Games:** *Pac-Man*, *Donkey Kong*, *Super Mario Bros.*, and *The Legend of Zelda* were some of the most popular video games of the era.
* **Dungeons & Dragons:** A role-playing game that sparked imaginations and inspired countless fantasy stories.
**How to Relive the 80s Gaming and Toy Experience:**
1. **Collect Vintage Toys and Games:** Search for vintage 80s toys and games at flea markets, antique stores, and online marketplaces. Restoring these items can be a fun and rewarding project.
2. **Play 80s Board Games with Friends:** Gather your friends for a night of nostalgic board games. *Trivial Pursuit*, *Monopoly*, and *Clue* were all popular choices.
3. **Visit an Arcade:** Relive the arcade experience by visiting a retro arcade or playing classic arcade games on an emulator.
4. **Attend a Toy Convention:** Meet collectors, buy vintage toys, and attend panels at a toy convention.
5. **Share Your 80s Toy Memories on Social Media:** Connect with other 80s enthusiasts and share your favorite toy memories on social media.
## Conclusion: Embrace the Nostalgia!
The 1980s were a unique and influential decade that continues to captivate and inspire people today. By exploring the music, movies, TV shows, fashion, gadgets, and slang of the era, you can relive the radness of the 80s and embrace the nostalgia. So, put on your leg warmers, tease your hair, and get ready to party like it’s 1985! Totally!