The 1980s was an incredible decade for music that shaped the sounds we enjoy today. From iconic pop stars to unforgettable rock bands, the ’80s gave us songs that still make us want to dance and sing along. This era was filled with bold fashion choices, memorable music videos, and artists who became legends. Think big hair, neon colors, and unforgettable tunes! Whether you loved Michael Jackson, Madonna, or Prince, the ’80s music scene had something for everyone.
Today, we will explore some fun and interesting trivia about 1980s music. Did you know that MTV launched in 1981 and changed how we experienced music? Or that some of the biggest hits of the decade were inspired by movies? As we go through this exciting trivia, you might learn surprising facts about your favorite artists and songs. Get ready to reminisce about the catchy melodies and spectacular performances that defined a lively decade in music history!
Music Trivia 80S
Hits That Made Waves in the 80s
1. What was Michael Jackson’s first big hit in the 1980s? (Answer: “Billie Jean”)
2. Which song by Madonna topped the charts in 1984? (Answer: “Like a Virgin”)
3. What iconic song features the lyrics “I wanna dance with somebody”? (Answer: “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” by Whitney Houston)
4. Which band sang “Livin’ on a Prayer”? (Answer: Bon Jovi)
5. What was the first video played on MTV? (Answer: “Video Killed the Radio Star” by The Buggles)
6. Who sang the famous theme song for “Ghostbusters”? (Answer: Ray Parker Jr.)
7. Which group released “Sweet Child O’ Mine” in 1988? (Answer: Guns N’ Roses)
8. What is the title of Cyndi Lauper’s hit song released in 1983? (Answer: “Girls Just Want to Have Fun”)
9. Who had a hit with “Take On Me” in 1985? (Answer: A-ha)
10. Which song by Whitney Houston was featured in the film “The Bodyguard”? (Answer: “I Will Always Love You”)
Themes and Trends in 80s Music
1. What genre of music became popular due to synthesizers in the 80s? (Answer: Synthpop)
2. Who is known for the “King of Pop” title? (Answer: Michael Jackson)
3. What hairstyle was famously worn by many rock stars in the 80s? (Answer: Big hair)
4. Which music video format became revolutionary in the 80s? (Answer: Music videos)
5. What fashion statement was a symbol of 80s pop music? (Answer: Neon colors)
6. What musical influence did hip-hop have in the 80s? (Answer: Breakdancing)
7. Who had a hit called “I Want to Break Free” in the 80s? (Answer: Queen)
8. What is the significant trend in music collaboration in the 80s? (Answer: Duets)
9. Which music awards ceremony started in 1984? (Answer: The MTV Video Music Awards)
10. What was the fashion accessory trend associated with musicians in the 80s? (Answer: Fingerless gloves)
Chart-Toppers and Their Stories
1. What was the longest-running number one single of the 80s? (Answer: “Physical” by Olivia Newton-John)
2. Which artist famously wore a single white glove while performing? (Answer: Michael Jackson)
3. Which Prince song is known for its memorable guitar riff? (Answer: “Purple Rain”)
4. How many Grammy Awards did Michael Jackson win in 1984? (Answer: Eight)
5. What was the name of the 1984 album that catapulted Prince to fame? (Answer: “Purple Rain”)
6. Who performed the hit “Don’t Stop Believin'” in 1981? (Answer: Journey)
7. What Elvis Presley song did Cyndi Lauper cover in the 80s? (Answer: “Can’t Help Falling In Love”)
8. Which song by Duran Duran reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100? (Answer: “The Reflex”)
9. What is the name of the 1987 hit song by George Michael that raises awareness of AIDS? (Answer: “Careless Whisper”)
10. Who sang the 80s anthem “We’re Not Gonna Take It”? (Answer: Twisted Sister)
Legends of the 80s Music Scene
1. What band was fronted by the unforgettable Freddie Mercury? (Answer: Queen)
2. Who is the “Material Girl” known for her boundary-pushing music? (Answer: Madonna)
3. Which artist is famous for his electrifying performances and “Purple Rain”? (Answer: Prince)
4. Who was known for her iconic song “Big Spender”? (Answer: Shirley Bassey)
5. Which male pop star was famous for his role in “Thriller”? (Answer: Michael Jackson)
6. Who brought us hits like “Time After Time”? (Answer: Cyndi Lauper)
7. What band is known for their catchy hooks and hit “Eye of the Tiger”? (Answer: Survivor)
8. Who led the famous 80s band Culture Club? (Answer: Boy George)
9. What famous duo is known for their hits “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go”? (Answer: Wham!)
10. Who was the legendary guitar player for Jimi Hendrix? (Answer: He was a legend himself)
80s Music Innovations and Milestones
1. Which album by The Police features the hit “Every Breath You Take”? (Answer: “Synchronicity”)
2. What year did MTV launch, changing music forever? (Answer: 1981)
3. Who invented the music genre of rap? (Answer: DJ Kool Herc)
4. What was the name of the charity single featuring multiple artists “We Are the World”? (Answer: USA for Africa)
5. Which music video was the first to reach over one billion views on YouTube? (Answer: “Despacito”)
6. Who was known for the iconic “Pac-Man” video game theme in a hit song? (Answer: Buckner and Garcia)
7. What groundbreaking music technology was introduced in the 80s? (Answer: CD)
8. What 80s band introduced the world to music videos as art? (Answer: Talking Heads)
9. Which popular 80s film featured the hit song “Iris”? (Answer: “City of Angels”)
10. Who was the famous voice behind the “Ghostbusters” song? (Answer: Ray Parker Jr.)
Memorable Music Moments of the 80s
1. In what year did Michael Jackson perform his famous moonwalk on live TV? (Answer: 1983)
2. What event featured a famous concert for peace in 1985? (Answer: Live Aid)
3. Which artist was infamously known as “the Queen of Pop”? (Answer: Madonna)
4. What song features the lyric “Wake me up before you go-go”? (Answer: “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” by Wham!)
5. What major pop star was known for her influence on LGBTQ+ rights during the 80s? (Answer: Madonna)
6. What band was famous for playing at the iconic Woodstock ’94? (Answer: Green Day)
7. What song did Phil Collins perform during the Live Aid concert? (Answer: “In the Air Tonight”)
8. Which artist gave a powerful performance during the Super Bowl halftime show in the 80s? (Answer: Michael Jackson)
9. What award ceremony honored the best in music during the 80s? (Answer: The American Music Awards)
10. Who was the artist behind the hit “Tainted Love”? (Answer: Soft Cell)
Final Thoughts
The 1980s was a decade filled with music that still resonates today. From catchy pop tunes to memorable rock anthems, many artists left a lasting impact. MTV transformed how we experienced music, showcasing the creativity of music videos and paving the way for future generations. As you reminisce through this trivia, remember the beautiful melodies and the fun of discovering new music. You can continue to explore more fascinating topics, like the deeper layers of 1980s trivia or enjoy the electrifying beats of 80s rock trivia. Each era has stories that shaped art, culture, and memories we hold dear.