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Tag: 1980

  • 1980 Top Ten Music Charts

    1980 Top Ten Music Charts

    1980’s Biggest Artists and Songs

    Rickie Lee Jones (1979 Best New Artist Grammy Winner, presented in 1980)
    Billy Joel (Grammy for Album of the Year)
    What a Fool Believes – The Doobie Brothers (Grammy for Record of the Year)
     
    New Artists in the Pop Charts Included:
    Zapp, Jon & Vangelis, Whitesnake, Pat Benatar, 38 Special, Survivor, Irene Cara, Air Supply, Devo, The Pretenders, The Clash, Tommy Tutone

    1980’s Retro Top 10 Hits

    1. Another Brick In The Wall – Pink Floyd
    2. Call Me – Blondie
    3. I’m Alright – Kenny Loggins
    4. Don’t Ask Me Why – Billy Joel
    5. Sailing – Christopher Cross
    6. Rotation – Herb Alpert
    7. Anyway You Want It – Journey
    8. On The Road Again – Willie Nelson
    9. JoJo – Boz Scaggs
    10. Give Me The Night – George Benson

    1980’s ‘One Hit Wonders’

    1. Funkytown – Lipps, Inc
    2. Into The Night – Benny Mardones
    3. Dirty Water – The Inmates
    4. Pilot of the Airwaves – Charlie Dore
    5. One in a Million You – Larry Graham
    6. Yes, I’m Ready – Teri DeSario
    7. Romeo’s Tune – Steve Forbert
    8. People Who Died – Jim Carroll Band
    9. Tired of Toein’ The Line – Rocky Burnett
    10. The Breaks – Kurtis Blow

    1980’s Dance Top 10 Hit List

    1. Rapper’s Delight – Sugarhill Gang
    2. Upside Down – Diana Ross
    3. Rock With You – Michael Jackson
    4. The Second Time Around – Shalamar
    5. The Breaks – Kurtis Blow
    6. Take Your Time (Do It Right) – S.O.S. Band
    7. Stomp! – Brothers Johnson
    8. Too Hot – Kool and the Gang
    9. Rasputin – Boney M
    10. Mandalay – LaFlavour

    1980’s Pop Dance Top 10 Hit List

    1. What I Like About You – Romantics
    2. Funkytown – Lipps, Inc
    3. Fame – Irene Cara
    4. Master Blaster (Jammin’) – Stevie Wonder
    5. Ladies Night – Kool and the Gang
    6. Feels Like I’m In Love – Kelly Marie
    7. Crazy Little Thing Called Love – Queen
    8. Working My Way Back To You/Forgive Me Girl – The Spinners
    9. He’s So Shy – Pointer Sisters
    10. I’m Coming Out – Diana Ross

    1980’s Pop Rock Top 10 Hit List

    1. You Shook Me All Night Long – AC/DC
    2. Heartbreaker – Pat Benatar
    3. Hit Me With Your Best Shot – Pat Benatar
    4. Emotional Rescue – Rolling Stones
    5. Brass In Pocket – The Pretenders
    6. Little Jeannie – Elton John
    7. Love Stinks – J Geils Band
    8. Cheap Sunglasses – ZZ Top
    9. It’s Still Rock and Roll To Me – Billy Joel
    10. Gimme Some Lovin – The Blues Brothers

    1980’s New Wave Top 10 Hit List

    1. Whip It – Devo
    2. Rock Lobster – The B-52s
    3. Cars – Gary Numan
    4. Train In Vain (Stand By Me) – The Clash
    5. Private Idaho – B-52s
    6. I Don’t Like Mondays – The Boomtown Rats
    7. Money – The Flying Lizards
    8. Turning Japanese – The Vapors
    9. Love Will Tear Us Apart – Joy Division
    10. Back Of My Hand (I’ve Got Your Number) – The Jags

    1980’s Album Rock Top Ten

    1. Cocaine – Eric Clapton
    2. Run Like Hell – Pink Floyd
    3. Fool In The Rain – Led Zeppelin
    4. And The Cradle Will Rock – Van Halen
    5. Games Without Frontiers – Peter Gabriel
    6. Don’t Do Me Like That – Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
    7. Dreamer – Supertramp
    8. Refugee – Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
    9. Flirtin’ With Disaster – Molly Hatchet
    10. Wango Tango – Ted Nugent
    More of 1980’s Album Rock
    All Night Long – Joe Walsh
    Alabama Getaway – Grateful Dead
    Volcano – Jimmy Buffett
    1980’s Bubblegum Pop Music Top Ten
    1. Funkytown – Lipps Inc
    2. Rock With You – Michael Jackson
    3. Another One Bites The Dust – Queen
    4. Theme From Dukes of Hazzard (Good Ol Boys) – Waylon Jennings
    5. Upside Down – Diana Ross
    6. It’s Still Rock and Roll To Me – Billy Joel
    7. Dreamer – Supertramp
    8. Magic – Olivia Newton-John
    9. Hot Rod Hearts – Robbie Dupree
    10. I’m Alright – Kenny Loggins
    PCM’s 1980 Top 10 Hit List
    1. (You Shook Me) All Night Long – AC/DC
    2. Theme From New York New York – Frank Sinatra
    3. Another One Bites The Dust – Queen
    4. What I Like About You – Romantics
    5. Funkytown – Lipps Inc
    6. On The Road Again – Willie Nelson
    7. Another Brick In The Wall (Part 2) – Pink Floyd
    8. Master Blaster (Jammin) – Stevie Wonder
    9. Rapper’s Delight – Sugarhill Gang
    10. Fame – Irene Cara
  • Pop Culture Quiz: What Happened In 1980?

    Pop Culture Quiz: What Happened In 1980?

    Pop Culture Quiz: What Happened In 1980?

    1980 Pop Culture, History, and Memorable Moments

    The year 1980 marked the dawn of a new decade, bringing with it fresh cultural trends, groundbreaking entertainment, and unforgettable historical events. From the rise of new music genres to iconic films that continue to captivate audiences, 1980 was a year that set the stage for the defining moments of the 1980s. It was a time when technology began infiltrating everyday life, political shifts shaped the global landscape, and pop culture became a dominant force in identity and connection.

    Entertainment in 1980 was electrifying. Audiences packed theaters for cinematic blockbusters, while music lovers embraced innovative sounds that blurred the lines between rock, pop, and emerging new-wave influences. On television, enduring classics shared the spotlight with groundbreaking premieres, creating a diverse lineup that kept viewers tuning in week after week. Meanwhile, fashion, toys, and technology trends reflected a spirit of experimentation and individuality.

    On a global scale, 1980 was a year of dramatic shifts. Pivotal elections, sporting triumphs, and technological advances dominated headlines, highlighting successes and challenges that shaped the modern world. Whether it was a bold, scientific achievement or an underdog story in sports, the year offered countless moments that left a lasting impression.

    Ready to test your knowledge of 1980? Take our trivia quiz and relive the moments that made this year unforgettable. From pop culture highlights to historical milestones, see how much you know about the start of this iconic decade!

    80 Trivia Questions For 1980 History

    (answers)

    1. What was the most popular portable music device in 1980?

    2. This movie bad guy wears a hockey mask and has appeared in at least a dozen films.

    3. Name the syndicated by Chronicle Features and then Universal Press Syndicate, which ran from December 31, 1979, to January 1, 1995.
    HINT: The Creator was Gary Larson

    4. This term was coined by William Casey when he served as campaign manager of Ronald Reagan’s 1980 presidential campaign. What phrase?

    5. People stopped buying 45s to hear single songs. What did they buy instead?

    6. What was the Biggest Number One Song of 1980?

    7. This comic strip by Berkeley Breathed initially ran from December 8, 1980, until August 6, 1989. Name that comic.

    8. In 1980, what was the average life expectancy in the United States?

    9. What is a “young urban professional” or “young upwardly mobile professional”? Short form of the term.

    10. A Star Wars question. Who is the administrator of Cloud City on the planet Bespin?
    Hint: He was played by Billy Dee Williams

    11. Muppet Animal played drums for what band?

    12. This TV show stars Bonnie Franklin as a divorced mother raising two teenage daughters, played by Mackenzie Phillips and Valerie Bertinelli, set in Indianapolis. Name it.

    13. This character was created by novelist Robert Ludlum and starred Mat Damon in a series of films.

    14. Who said, “And don’t call me Shirley”?

    15. What was the mind-bending phrase Darth Vader said about his relationship with Luke?

    16. Name the expected trio briefly performed at Eric Clapton’s wedding?

    17. Harold “Harry” Monroe and Skipper “Skip” Donahue are two unemployed friends who are given 125-year prison sentences after getting framed for a bank robbery in this film. Name it

    18. This ABC television show featured a cartoonist (played by Ted Knight) who authors a comic strip called Cosmic Cow with a hand-puppet version of “Cosmic Cow.”

    19. Who won the “Miracle on Ice”?

    20. Who was the biggest Musical Artist of 1980?

    21. How many people lived in the World in 1980?

    22. How many people lived in the United States in 1980?

    23. Who played the leading man in 1980’s Popeye?

    24. Who played the leading lady, Olive Oyl, in Popeye?

    25. Who was the first British female artist in the UK album charts to reach number one?
    HINT: One of her songs was rediscovered in 2022 in Stranger Things.

    26. Name the biggest-selling video game of all time.

    27. This type of wire/cord computer networking technology became the standard in 1980.
    HINT: commonly used in local area networks (LAN)

    28. What 1980 rock album is the second-highest-selling original album of all time and the highest-selling studio album by any band to date?

    29. This show focused on Edna Garrett (Charlotte Rae) as she becomes a housemother at the fictional Eastland School in Peekskill, New York. Name it

    30. Name the six colors on the side of a Rubik’s cube

    31. This 1980 film involved transporting an elephant to the GOP National Convention.

    32. You get one point for each of the four members of rock band U2.

    33. This musical fantasy film featured music by Newton-John, the Electric Light Orchestra, Cliff Richard, and the Tubes.
    HINT: Olivia Newton-John also starred in the film.

    34. Steve Rubell and Ian Schrager’s famous dance club in New York closed on February 4, 1980. What was that nightclub called?

    35. The Federal Reserve reached its highest rate in December 1980. What was it?

    36. what was the biggest company in the US in 1980?

    37. Who shot J.R.?
    HINT: ON the TV show Dallas.

    38. Name the second highest-grossing film of 1980.

    39. Who were the leading actresses in 9-5? You get one point for each, which you can name.

    40. Who played the role of sexist vice president Franklin Hart in 9-5?

    41. Name the highest-grossing film of 1980

    42. Who murdered John Lennon?

    43. Which celebrity was NOT born in 1980:
    Kelly Osbourne, Chelsea Clinton, Michelle Kwan, or Lin-Manuel Miranda

    44. American actor Jim Varney portrayed this fictional character in a series of television commercials, a television series, and a series of feature films.
    HINT: Hey, Vern!

    45. This Sesame Street character may arguably be the most beloved by children. Name him.
    HINT: He’s red

    46. Introduced on The Muppet Show, this Muppet is not as beloved and often performs with Gonzo.
    HINT: He was very loosely based on Rizzo in Midnight Cowboy.

    47. What is the Olympic Village used at Lake Placid 1980 Olympics currently used as?

    48. True or False? Many, if not most, public toilets in the US were “Pay Toilets” until 1980.

    49. Paul McCartney spend over a week in jail in what country for possession of marijuana?

    50. This TV show featured a family living on a Plum Creek farm near Walnut Grove, Minnesota, in the 1800s.
    HINT: The show is loosely based on Laura Ingalls Wilder’s best-selling series of Little House books

    51. Who was the President of the United States in 1980?

    52. Who was the Vice President of the United States in ZZZZ?

    53. This 1980 film featured a pampered woman who unexpectedly joined the U.S. Army after her husband died on their wedding night. Name that film

    54. This comic book character first appeared in an insert preview in DC Comics Presents #26.
    HINT: He later joined the Justice League in the DCU.

    55. Another new comic book character also appeared in the same comic book insert. Name her.
    HINT: She was a member of Teen Titans, and dated Dick Grayson

    56. What was the first “modern” live touring show, premiering in 1980?

    57. These soft dolls were first introduced in 1980 by Xavier Roberts.

    58. What was the leading video game console in 1980?

    59. In Poland, the Solidarity movement began in 1980 as the first independent labor union in a Soviet-bloc country. Who led it?

    60. In April, Brian Johnson was made the new lead singer of AC/DC, replacing whom?

    61. Who won the Stanley Cup in 1980?

    62. What was the Top-Rated TV Show in the 1979/1980 season?

    63. Who played the lead role in Coal Miner’s Daughter?

    64. Who was Coal Miner’s Daughter about?

    65. This volcanic eruption killed 57 people and caused $3 billion in damage. Name that volcano.

    66. What was the name of the Blues Brothers’ car in their 1980 film?

    67. Ted Turner launched the first 24-hour news channel on June 1, 1980. What was it called?

    68. This term describes a person with an ardent or refined interest in food. NOT “gastronome” or “gourmet.”
    HINT: Not “foodist” either

    69. Introduced in 1980, this brand of bubble gum is made to resemble chewing tobacco. What is it called?

    70. What was Han Solo frozen in?

    71. Who won Super Bowl XIV?

    72. Suzanne Sommers left Three’s Company over a salary dispute. What was the name of her character?

    73. Chrissy Snow’s character was replaced by her Cousin, Cindy Snow. Who played the role of Cindy Snow?

    74. What was the Bestselling Fiction Book in 1980

    75. Name the TV show that included Officer Francis (“Frank”), Llewellyn “Ponch” Poncherello and Larry Wilcox as his partner, Officer Jonathan (“Jon”) Andrew Baker.

    76. Who replaced Charlie’s Angel Tiffany Wells (Shelley Hack) in 1980?

    77. Who won the 1980 World Series?

    78. These guys are a pair of fictional Canadian brothers who hosted “Great White North,” a sketch that was introduced on SCTV.
    HINT: They had a hit in 1982 featuring Geddy Lee

    79. You get one point for each of the Pac-man Ghosts you can name.

    80. This infamous bounty hunter debuted on the big screen in The Empire Strikes Back. Name him.

    Trivia Team Bonus Questions:

    1. Albert Einstein’s face was an influence when creating what Star Wars Character?

    2. Who was the Pope in 1980?

    3. What Horse won the Kentucky Derby in 1980?

    4. In what comic book did Star Wars, Boba Fett make his first appearance in December 1980?

    5. MTM Enterprises (Mary Tyler Moore) had a mascot that resembled MGM’s lion mascot. What was it?

    6. What was the name of MTM’s mascot?

    7. When the world ends, what song will CNN play, according to founder Ted Turner?

    8. What was the Mariel boatlift?

    9. What 1957 movie was 1980’s Airplane! based on?

    10. What was the name of the Red Hat that rock band Devo and some of their fans wore?

    The Answers:

    80 Trivia Answers For 1980 History

    1. What was the most popular portable music device in 1980?
    The Sony Walkman

    2. This movie bad guy wears a hockey mask and has appeared in at least a dozen films.
    Jason Vorhees

    3. Name the syndicated by Chronicle Features and then Universal Press Syndicate, which ran from December 31, 1979, to January 1, 1995.
    HINT: The Creator was Gary Larson
    The Far Side

    4. This term was coined by William Casey when he served as campaign manager of Ronald Reagan’s 1980 presidential campaign. What phrase?
    “October surprise”

    5. People stopped buying 45s to hear single songs. What did they buy instead?
    cassette singles

    6. What was the Biggest Number One Song of 1980?
    Call Me – Blondie

    7. This comic strip by Berkeley Breathed initially ran from December 8, 1980, until August 6, 1989. Name that comic.
    Bloom County

    8. In 1980, what was the average life expectancy in the United States?
    Men – 69.9 years, Women – 77.5 years

    9. What is a “young urban professional” or “young upwardly mobile professional”? Short form of the term.
    Yuppie

    10. A Star Wars question. Who is the administrator of Cloud City on the planet Bespin?
    Hint: He was played by Billy Dee Williams
    Lando Calrissian

    11. Muppet Animal played drums for what band?
    Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem

    12. This TV show stars Bonnie Franklin as a divorced mother raising two teenage daughters, played by Mackenzie Phillips and Valerie Bertinelli, set in Indianapolis. Name it.
    One Day At A Time

    13. This character was created by novelist Robert Ludlum and starred Mat Damon in a series of films.
    Jason Bourne

    14. Who said, “And don’t call me Shirley”?
    Leslie Nielsen, as Dr. Rumack

    15. What was the mind-bending phrase Darth Vader said about his relationship with Luke?
    “No, I am your father” (NOT Luke, I am your father)

    16. Name the expected trio briefly performed at Eric Clapton’s wedding?
    Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr

    17. Harold “Harry” Monroe and Skipper “Skip” Donahue are two unemployed friends who are given 125-year prison sentences after getting framed for a bank robbery in this film. Name it.
    Stir Crazy

    18. This ABC television show featured a cartoonist (played by Ted Knight) who authors a comic strip called Cosmic Cow with a hand-puppet version of “Cosmic Cow.”
    Too Close For Comfort

    19. Who won the “Miracle on Ice”?
    The US men’s hockey team won unexpectedly over the heavily favored Soviet Union team in the 1980 Winter Olympics. The US won 4–3.

    20. Who was the biggest Musical Artist of 1980?
    Kenny Rogers

    21. How many people lived in the World in 1980?
    4,444,007,706

    22. How many people lived in the United States in 1980?
    227,224,681

    23. Who played the leading man in 1980’s Popeye?
    Robin Williams

    24. Who played the leading lady, Olive Oyl, in Popeye?
    Shelley Duvall

    25. Who was the first British female artist in the UK album charts to reach number one?
    HINT: One of her songs was rediscovered in 2022 in Stranger Things.
    Kate Bush

    26. Name the biggest-selling video game of all time.
    Pac-Man

    27. This type of wire/cord computer networking technology became the standard in 1980.
    HINT: commonly used in local area networks (LAN)
    Ethernet

    28. What 1980 rock album is the second-highest-selling original album of all time and the highest-selling studio album by any band to date?
    Back in Black by AC/DC

    29. This show focused on Edna Garrett (Charlotte Rae) as she becomes a housemother at the fictional Eastland School in Peekskill, New York. Name it.
    The Facts of Life

    30. Name the six colors on the side of a Rubik’s cube
    white, red, blue, orange, green, and yellow.

    31. This 1980 film involved transporting an elephant to the GOP National Convention.
    Smokey and the Bandit II

    32. You get one point for each of the four members of rock band U2.
    Bono (lead vocals and rhythm guitar), the Edge (lead guitar, keyboards), Adam Clayton (bass guitar), and Larry Mullen Jr. (drums and percussion)

    33. This musical fantasy film featured music by Newton-John, the Electric Light Orchestra, Cliff Richard, and the Tubes.
    HINT: Olivia Newton-John also starred in the film.
    Xanadu

    34. Steve Rubell and Ian Schrager’s famous dance club in New York closed on February 4, 1980. What was that nightclub called?
    Studio 54

    35. The Federal Reserve reached its highest rate in December 1980. What was it?
    21.5%

    36. what was the biggest company in the US in 1980?
    ExxonMobil was America’s biggest company, followed by General Motors, Mobil, Ford Motor, and Texaco.

    37. Who shot J.R.?
    HINT: ON the TV show Dallas.
    Kristin Shepard, J.R.’s sister-in-law (Mary Crosby)

    38. Name the second highest-grossing film of 1980.
    9-5

    39. Who were the leading actresses in 9-5? You get one point for each, which you can name.
    Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, Dolly Parton

    40. Who played the role of sexist vice president Franklin Hart in 9-5?
    Dabney Coleman

    41. Name the highest-grossing film of 1980.
    Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back

    42. Who murdered John Lennon?
    Mark David Chapman

    43. Which celebrity was NOT born in 1980:
    Kelly Osbourne, Chelsea Clinton, Michelle Kwan, or Lin-Manuel Miranda
    Kelly Osbourne (born 27 October 1984)

    44. American actor Jim Varney portrayed this fictional character in a series of television commercials, a television series, and a series of feature films.
    HINT: Hey, Vern!
    Ernest P. Worrell

    45. This Sesame Street character may arguably be the most beloved by children. Name him.
    HINT: He’s red
    Elmo

    46. Introduced on The Muppet Show, this Muppet is not as beloved and often performs with Gonzo.
    HINT: He was very loosely based on Rizzo in Midnight Cowboy.
    Rizzo the Rat

    47. What is the Olympic Village used at Lake Placid 1980 Olympics currently used as?
    Federal Correctional Institution, Ray Brook (FCI Ray Brook), a medium-security prison

    48. True or False? Many, if not most, public toilets in the US were “Pay Toilets” until 1980.
    True

    49. Paul McCartney spend over a week in jail in what country for possession of marijuana?
    Japan

    50. This TV show featured a family living on a Plum Creek farm near Walnut Grove, Minnesota, in the 1800s.
    HINT: The show is loosely based on Laura Ingalls Wilder’s best-selling series of Little House books.
    Little House on the Prairie

    51. Who was the President of the United States in 1980?
    Jimmy Carter (January 20, 1977 – January 20, 1981)

    52. Who was the Vice President of the United States in 1977?
    Walter Mondale (January 20, 1977 – January 20, 1981)

    53. This 1980 film featured a pampered woman who unexpectedly joined the U.S. Army after her husband died on their wedding night. Name that film
    Private Benjamin

    54. This comic book character first appeared in an insert preview in DC Comics Presents #26.
    HINT: He later joined the Justice League in the DCU.
    Cyborg

    55. Another comic book character also appeared in a comic book insert. Name her.
    HINT: She was a member of Teen Titans, and dated Dick Grayson
    Starfire

    56. What was the first “modern” live touring show, premiering in 1980?
    Sesame Street Live

    57. These soft dolls were first introduced in 1980 by Xavier Roberts.
    Cabbage Patch Kids

    58. What was the leading video game console in 1980?
    The Atari 2600

    59. In Poland, the Solidarity movement began in 1980 as the first independent labor union in a Soviet-bloc country. Who led it?
    Lech Walesa

    60. In April, Brian Johnson was made the new lead singer of AC/DC, replacing whom?
    Bon Scott

    61. Who won the Stanley Cup in 1980?
    New York Islanders

    62. What was the Top-Rated TV Show in the 1979/1980 season?
    60 Minutes (Three’s Company was #2)

    63. Who played the lead role in Coal Miner’s Daughter?
    Sissy Spacek

    64. Who was Coal Miner’s Daughter about?
    Loretta Lynn

    65. This volcanic eruption killed 57 people and caused $3 billion in damage. Name that volcano.
    Mount St. Helens

    66. What was the name of the Blues Brothers’ car in their 1980 film?
    The Bluesmobile (a decommissioned police car, 1974 Dodge Monaco)

    67. Ted Turner launched the first 24-hour news channel on June 1, 1980. What was it called?
    CNN (Cable News Network)

    68. This term describes a person with an ardent or refined interest in food. NOT “gastronome” or “gourmet.”
    HINT: Not “foodist” either
    Foodie

    69. Introduced in 1980, this brand of bubble gum is made to resemble chewing tobacco. What is it called?
    Big League Chew

    70. What was Han Solo frozen in?
    Carbonite

    71. Who won the Super Bowl XIV?
    Pittsburgh Steelers

    72. Suzanne Sommers left Three’s Company over a salary dispute. What was the name of her character?
    Chrissy Snow.

    73. Chrissy Snow’s character was replaced by her Cousin, Cindy Snow. Who played the role of Cindy Snow?
    Jenilee Harrison

    74. What was the Bestselling Fiction Book in 1980?
    The Covenant by James A. Michener

    75. Name the TV show that included Officer Francis (“Frank”), Llewellyn “Ponch” Poncherello, and Larry Wilcox as his partner, Officer Jonathan (“Jon”) Andrew Baker.
    CHiPs (California Highway Patrol)

    76. Who replaced Charlie’s Angel Tiffany Wells (Shelley Hack) in 1980?
    Julie Rogers (played by Tanya Roberts)

    77. Who won the 1980 World Series?
    Philadelphia Phillies

    78. These guys are a pair of fictional Canadian brothers who hosted “Great White North,” a sketch that was introduced on SCTV.
    HINT: They had a hit in 1982 featuring Geddy Lee
    Bob and Doug McKenzie (the song was Take Off)

    79. You get one point for each of the Pac-man Ghosts you can name.
    Blinky, Pinky, Inky and Clyde

    80. This infamous bounty hunter debuted on the big screen in The Empire Strikes Back. Name him.
    Boba Fett

    Trivia Team Bonus Answers:

    1. Albert Einstein’s face was an influence when creating what Star Wars Character?
    Yoda (Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back)

    2. Who was the Pope in 1980?
    John Paul II (October 16, 1978 – April 2, 2005)

    3. What Horse won the Kentucky Derby in 1980?
    Genuine Risk

    4. In what comic book did Star Wars, Boba Fett make his first appearance in December 1980?
    Star Wars #42

    5. MTM Enterprises (Mary Tyler Moore) had a mascot that resembled MGM’s lion mascot. What was it?
    A Cat

    6. What was the name of MTM’s mascot?
    Mimsie the cat

    7. When the world ends, what song will CNN play, according to founder Ted Turner?
    Nearer My God to Thee

    8. What was the Mariel boatlift?
    A mass exodus of Cubans to the United States from April through October 1980.

    9. What 1957 movie was 1980’s Airplane! based on?
    Zero Hour

    10. What was the name of the Red Hat that rock band Devo and some of their fans wore?
    Energy Dome

  • 25 Biggest Songs of the 1980s

    25 Biggest Songs of the 1980s

     

    Biggest Billboard Hits of the 1980s

    The biggest billboard hits of the 1980s were marked by a new sound that combined electronic dance, new wave, punk and post-punk with a focus on style and visual identity. This combination helped define the decade and set it apart from other decades in terms of the music produced and how it was marketed and presented to audiences.

    One of the most notable differences was the introduction of electronic dance and synthesized pop music, which became a defining characteristic of the decade’s music scene. This style was characterized by synthesizers, drum machines, and computerized production techniques, which gave artists and producers more control over the sound and helped create a new type of highly energetic and danceable music.

    Another difference was the influence of new wave, punk, and post-punk music, which brought a more experimental and eclectic approach to pop music. This style was characterized by its use of unconventional instruments, such as keyboards and synthesizers, and avant-garde and futuristic sounds, often with a political or social edge.

    Top 25 Songs 1980-1989

    1. Physical – Olivia Newton-John
    2. Bette Davis Eyes – Kim Carnes
    3. Endless Love – Diana Ross & Lionel Richie
    4. Every Breath You Take – The Police
    5. I Love Rock & Roll – Joan Jett & The Blackhearts
    6. Ebony And Ivory – Paul McCartney & Stevie Wonder
    7. Billie Jean – Michael Jackson
    8. Eye Of The Tiger – Survivor
    9. Flashdance – What A Feeling – Irene Cara
    10. Lady – Kenny Rogers
    11. Say Say Say – Paul McCartney & Michael Jackson
    12. Centerfold – The J. Geils Band
    13. Call Me – Blondie
    14. Like A Virgin – Madonna
    15. (Just Like) Starting Over – John Lennon
    16. When Doves Cry – Prince
    17. Jump – Van Halen
    18. Upside Down – Diana Ross
    19. All Night Long (All Night) – Lionel Richie
    20. Maneater – Daryl Hall & John Oates
    21. Another Brick In The Wall (Part II) – Pink Floyd
    22. Crazy Little Thing Called Love – Queen
    23. Total Eclipse Of The Heart – Bonnie Tyler
    24. Down Under – Men At Work
    25. That’s What Friends Are For – Dionne Warwick & Friends
  • 1980 Number One Hits

    1980 Number One Hits

    1980 Billboard Number One Hits:

    December 22, 1979 – January 4, 1980:
    Escape (The Pina Colada Song) – Rupert Holmes
    January 5 – January 18:
    Please Don’t Go – KC and the Sunshine Band
    January 19 – February 15:
    Rock With You – Michael Jackson
    February 16 – February 22:
    Do That To Me One More Time – Captain & Tennille
    February 23 – March 21:
    Crazy Little Thing Called Love – Queen
    March 22 – April 18:
    Another Brick in the Wall (Part II) – Pink Floyd
    April 19 – May 30:
    Call Me – Blondie
    May 31 – June 27:
    Funkytown – Lipps Inc.
    June 28 – July 18:
    Coming Up (Live At Glasgow) – Paul McCartney & Wings
    July 19 – August 1:
    It’s Still Rock and Roll to Me – Billy Joel
    August 2 – August 29:
    Magic – Olivia Newton-John
    August 30 – September 5:
    Sailing – Christopher Cross
    September 6 – October 3:
    Upside Down – Diana Ross
    October 4 – October 24:
    Another One Bites the Dust – Queen
    October 25 – November 14:
    Woman in Love – Barbra Streisand
    November 15 – December 26:
    Lady – Kenny Rogers
    December 27, 1980 – January 30, 1981:
    (Just Like) Starting Over – John Lennon

    (Data is compiled from various charts including Billboard’s “Pop,” “Rock,” “Airplay,” “R&B/Dance” and “Singles” Charts. The “Hot 100” is the primary chart used for this list.)

  • 1980 History, Fun Facts and Trivia

    1980 History, Fun Facts and Trivia

    1980 Fun Facts, Trivia and History

    Quick Facts from 1980:

    • The Miracle On Ice: At the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, New York, the US men’s hockey team amazed the world (and themselves) by beating the Soviet Union.
    • The Top Song was Lady by Kenny Rogers
    • The Movies to Watch include Airplane!, Coal Miner’s Daughter, Flash Gordon, The Elephant Man, The Blues Brothers, The Shining and The Empire Strikes Back
    • The Most Famous Person in America was probably John Lennon
    • Notable books include Cosmos by Carl Sagan and The Bourne Identity by Robert Ludlum
    • Price of a loaf of bread in 1980: 50 cents
      Price of a gallon of gas in 1980: $1.22
      Etch-A-Sketch: $4.97
      Rubick’s Cube: $9.99
    • The Comeback Funny Guy was: Redd Foxx
      The Funny Late Night Host: Johnny Carson
      The Funny Duo was: Cheech and Chong
    • The Conversation: Who Shot J.R on CBS-TV’s Dallas?

    1980 History Rundown:

    • January 4 – U.S. Imposed Grain Embargo on USSR: President Jimmy Carter announced a grain embargo against the Soviet Union in response to its invasion of Afghanistan.
    • January 6 – Global Positioning System (GPS) Time Epoch Began: The GPS time system was initiated, providing a new standard for precise timekeeping.
    • February 13 – Opening of the 1980 Winter Olympics: The Winter Olympics commenced in Lake Placid, New York, featuring the “Miracle on Ice” hockey game.
    • March 21 – U.S. Announced Boycott of Moscow Olympics: The United States declared it would boycott the 1980 Summer Olympics in Moscow due to the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan.
    • April 17 – Zimbabwe Gained Independence: Zimbabwe became an independent nation, with Robert Mugabe as its first Prime Minister.
    • May 4 – Death of Yugoslav Leader Josip Broz Tito: President Josip Broz Tito of Yugoslavia passed away at the age of 87, leading to a state funeral attended by numerous world leaders.
    • May 8 – WHO Declared Eradication of Smallpox: The World Health Organization announced the global eradication of smallpox, marking a significant victory in public health.
    • May 18 – Eruption of Mount St. Helens: Mount St. Helens in Washington state erupted, causing significant destruction and loss of life.
    • July 19 – Opening of the 1980 Summer Olympics: The Summer Olympics began in Moscow, marked by a significant boycott led by the United States.
    • August 31 – Gdańsk Agreement Signed in Poland: The Polish government signed the Gdańsk Agreement with striking workers, creating the Solidarity movement.
    • September 22 – Outbreak of Iran-Iraq War: Iraq invaded Iran, initiating a protracted and devastating conflict between the two nations.
    • October 10 – Earthquake in Algeria: A powerful earthquake struck Algeria, resulting in significant casualties and damage.
    • November 4 – Ronald Reagan Elected U.S. President: Ronald Reagan won the U.S. presidential election, defeating incumbent Jimmy Carter.
    • December 8 – Assassination of John Lennon: Former Beatle John Lennon was shot and killed outside his New York City apartment by Mark David Chapman.
    • December 12 – Daegu Subway Fire in South Korea: A tragic fire occurred in the Daegu subway, resulting in numerous fatalities and injuries.
    • December 24 – Release of the First Personal Computer: The first personal computer, the IBM PC, was released, revolutionizing the computing industry.
    • December 31 – Adoption of the Comprehensive Anti-Apartheid Act: The U.S. Congress passed the Comprehensive Anti-Apartheid Act, imposing sanctions on South Africa to protest its apartheid policies.
    • Continuation of the Cold War: The Cold War persisted, with tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union influencing global politics.
    •  Advancements in Space Exploration: Significant progress was made in space exploration, including missions by NASA and the Soviet space program.
    • Rise of the Personal Computer Industry: The personal computer industry experienced significant growth, with companies like Apple and IBM introducing new models.

    Top Ten Baby Names of 1980:

    Jennifer, Amanda, Jessica, Melissa, Sarah, Heather, Nicole, Amy, Elizabeth, Michelle
    Michael, Christopher, Jason, David, James, Matthew, Joshua, John, Robert, Joseph

    The Hotties, Sex Symbols, and Fashion Icons:

    Loni Anderson, Susan Anton, Barbara Bach, Catherine Bach, Kim Basinger, Valerie Bertinelli, Jacqueline Bisset, Christie Brinkley, Lynda Carter, Charo, Lydia Cornell, Sybil Danning, Bo Derek, Morgan Fairchild, Farrah Fawcett, Jane Fonda, Erin Gray, Shelly Hack, Debbie Harry, Goldie Hawn, Marilu Henner, Lauren Hutton, Cheryl Ladd, Olivia Newton-John, Stevie Nicks, Dolly Parton, Bernadette Peters, Victoria Principal, Tanya Roberts, Diana Ross, Jane Seymour, Brooke Shields, Jacquelyn Smith, Suzanne Somers, Donna Summer, Cheryl Tiegs, Charlene Tilton, Mary Woronov

    Hollywood Hunks and Leading Men:

    Richard Gere, Christopher Reeve, Burt Reynolds, John Travolta

    “The Quotes”

    “Pardon me, do you have any Grey Poupon? “
    -Grey Poupon

    “Who Shot JR?”
    – Fans of CBS’s Dallas television series

    “Here’s Johnny!”
    – Jack Nicholson, in The Shining

    “You dipstick”
    – Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane on The Dukes of Hazzard

    Striker: “Surely you can’t be serious?!”
    Rumack: “I am serious… and don’t call me Shirley.”
    – Robert Hays and Leslie Nielsen, in Airplane!

    “No, I am your father” (NOT Luke, I am your father)
    -Darth Vader, to a surprised Luke Skywalker

    “Do you believe in miracles? YES!”
    – Sportscaster Al Michaels, after The Miracle On Ice

    “Cinderella story. Outta nowhere. A former greenskeeper, now, about to become the Masters champion. It looks like a miracle…It’s in the hole! It’s in the hole! It’s in the hole!”
    – Bill Murray, in ‘Caddyshack’

    Time Magazine’s Man of the Year:

    Ronald Reagan

    Miss America:

    Cheryl Prewitt (Ackerman, MS)

    Miss USA:

    Shawn Weatherly (South Carolina) /Jineane Ford (Arizona)

    1980 Deaths:

    On May 18, Mount St. Helens erupted in Washington, killing 57 people.

    Mark David Chapman shot and killed former Beatles member John Lennon outside Lennon’s residence at the Dakota, in NYC.

    Ian Curtis, singer-songwriter of acclaimed English post-punk band Joy Division, hanged himself in his kitchen. His bandmates later formed the band New Order.

    AC/DC frontman Bon Scott died after a night of heavy drinking in London.

    Dorothy Stratten, the 1980 Playboy Playmate of the Year, was murdered by estranged husband Paul Leslie Snider, who then committed suicide.

    The Pennsylvania Lottery was rigged by six men, including the live TV drawing host, Nick Perry.

    The Killer Clown (John Wayne Gacy Jr.) was sentenced to death for the murder of 33 boys and young men between 1972 and 1978.

    Philadelphia Crime Boss Angelo Bruno was shot and killed while in his car in front of his home at the intersection of 10th Street and Snyder Avenue in South Philadelphia.

    The Washington Post published Janet Cooke’s story of Jimmy, an 8-year-old heroin addict, later proven to be fabricated. She won a Pulitzer Prize for the story.

    World News

    The Iran-Iraq war began in September when Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein ordered his forces to invade Western Iran. Over 1,000,000 people were killed by the time a cease-fire was agreed in 1988.

    Robert Mugabe was elected Prime Minister of Zimbabwe.

    On January 6, The Global Positioning System time epoch began at 00:00 UTC. It is one of the global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) that provides geolocation and time information to a GPS receiver anywhere on or near the Earth.

    On May 8, the global eradication of smallpox was certified by the World Health Organization.

    Miracle On Ice: The United States Olympic ice hockey team amazed the world at the 1980 Lake Placid Winter Olympics on February 22nd, when they beat the Soviet national team. In 1999, Sports Illustrated named the “Miracle on Ice” the top sports moment of the 20th century.

    President Jimmy Carter signed Proclamation 4771, which required 18- to 25-year-old American males to register for a peacetime military draft.

    A severe summer heatwave in the Southern US Caused over 1,100 deaths.

    The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA) superfund law was passed by the US Congress.

    30% of United States car sales were imported.

    Tim Berners-Lee began his work on ENQUIRE, the system that would eventually lead to his creation of the World Wide Web in 1990.

    Abscam: FBI personnel target members of the Congress of the United States in a sting operation. 7 members of the US House of Representatives and 4 Philadelphia area politicians were convicted of bribery.

    Pop Culture Facts & History

    A computer modem was invented.

    The album Back in Black, one of the Top 10 best-selling albums of all time, was released by the Australian band AC/DC.

    Video Games became popular with Pac-Man, Battlezone, Missile Command, Space Panic, Zork I, and Olympic Decathlon. Electronic Games hosted the first Arcade Awards and video game awards ceremony, with Space Invaders winning the Game of the Year Award.

    Erno Rubik patented his “Magic Cube” in Hungary in 1975. Debuting at The British Toy and Hobby Fair in January, by May 1980, it became a worldwide sensation.

    There has been some debate about 3M’s Post-it notes. The product was used in a test marketing campaign in 1978 as ‘Post N Peel’, and sold nationally in 1980 as ‘Post-it Notes.’ New products are in ‘test mode’ all the time. Created in 1975 by Spencer Silver and Art Fry, we say they went on sale in 1980.

    Whole Foods was founded in Austin, Texas.

    CNN began broadcasting from Atlanta, Georgia.

    Launched in 1977, The Voyager 1 probe confirmed the existence of Janus, a moon of Saturn.

    The United States led a boycott of the Moscow Summer Olympics to protest the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. 82 countries boycotted the Games, and athletes from 16 of them participated under a neutral flag.

    The Philadelphia Phillies defeated the Kansas City Royals, 4–1, in Game Six of the World Series to win the World Series Championship.

    According to the 1980 United States Census, 226,545,805 United States residents are there.

    Cost of a Super Bowl ad in 1980: $222,000

    Doomsday Clock: 

    7 minutes to midnight, according to the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists.
    1980: Thirty-five years after the start of the nuclear age and after some promising disarmament gains, the United States and the Soviet Union still view nuclear weapons as an integral component of their national security. This stalled progress discourages the Bulletin: “[The Soviet Union and United States have] been behaving like what may best be described as ‘nucleoholics’–drunks who continue to insist that the drink being consumed is positively ‘the last one,’ but who can always find a good excuse for ‘just one more round.’”

    The Habits:

    Playing Rubik’s Cube, Pac-Man, Centipede (arcade), Reading The Official Preppy Handbook
    Guessing ‘Who shot J.R.?’ (it was Kristin Shepard, played by Mary Crosby)

    1st Appearances & 1980’s Most Popular Christmas Gifts, Toys and Presents:

    Rubik’s Cube, Magna doodle

    Popular and Best-selling Books From 1980

    A Confederacy of Dunces by John Kennedy Toole
    The Bourne Identity by Robert Ludlum
    Cosmos by Carl Sagan
    The Covenant by James A. Michener
    The Devil’s Alternative by Frederick Forsyth
    Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card
    The Fifth Horseman by Larry Collins and Dominique Lapierre
    Firestarter by Stephen King
    God Emperor of Dune by Frank Herbert
    Jailbird – Kuty Vonnegut
    The Key to Rebecca by Ken Follett
    Midnight’s Children by Salmon Rushdie
    Princess Daisy by Judith Krantz
    Rage of Angels by Sidney Sheldon
    Random Winds by Belva Plain
    Smiley’s People by John le Carre
    The Spike by Arnaud de Borchgrave and Robert Moss

    Broadway Shows:

    42nd Street (Musical) Opened on August 25, 1980, and closed on January 8, 1989
     Amadeus (Play) Opened on December 17, 1980, and closed on October 16, 1983

    Best Film Oscar Winner:

    Kramer vs. Kramer (presented in 1980)

    The Bomb (Movie):

    Heaven’s Gate starring Kris Kristofferson, Christopher Walken, Jeff Bridges, John Hurt, Sam Waterston, Joseph Cotten, Mickey Rourke, and Willem Dafoe

    The Big Movies: (according to boxofficemojo

    1. The Empire Strikes Back
    2. 9 to 5
    3. Stir Crazy
    4. Airplane!
    5. Any Which Way You Can
    6. Private Benjamin
    7. Coal Miner’s Daughter
    8. Smokey and the Bandit II
    9. The Blue Lagoon
    10. The Blues Brothers

    1980 Most Popular TV Shows:

    1. Dallas (CBS)
    2. The Dukes of Hazzard (CBS)
    3. 60 Minutes (CBS)
    4. M*A*S*H (CBS)
    5. The Love Boat (ABC)
    6. The Jeffersons (CBS)
    7. Alice (CBS)
    8. House Calls (CBS)
    9. Three’s Company (ABC)
    10. Little House on the Prairie (NBC)

    1980 Billboard Number One Songs

    December 22, 1979 – January 4, 1980:
    Escape (The Pina Colada Song) – Rupert Holmes

    January 5 – January 18:
    Please Don’t Go – KC and the Sunshine Band

    January 19 – February 15:
    Rock With You – Michael Jackson

    February 16 – February 22:
    Do That To Me One More Time – Captain & Tennille

    February 23 – March 21:
    Crazy Little Thing Called Love – Queen

    March 22 – April 18:
    Another Brick in the Wall (Part II) – Pink Floyd

    April 19 – May 30:
    Call Me – Blondie

    May 31 – June 27:
    Funkytown – Lipps Inc.

    June 28 – July 18:
    Coming Up (Live At Glasgow) – Paul McCartney & Wings

    July 19 – August 1:
    It’s Still Rock and Roll to Me – Billy Joel

    August 2 – August 29:
    Magic – Olivia Newton-John

    August 30 – September 5:
    Sailing – Christopher Cross

    September 6 – October 3:
    Upside Down – Diana Ross

    October 4 – October 24:
    Another One Bites the Dust – Queen

    October 25 – November 14:
    Woman in Love – Barbra Streisand

    November 15 – December 26:
    Lady – Kenny Rogers

    December 27, 1980 – January 30, 1981:
    (Just Like) Starting Over – John Lennon

    1980 United States Census:

    Total US Population: 226,542,199
    1. New York, New York – 7,071,639
    2. Chicago, Illinois – 3,005,072
    3. Los Angeles, California – 2,966,850
    4. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – 1,688,210
    5. Houston, Texas – 1,595,138
    6. Detroit, Michigan – 1,203,339
    7. Dallas, Texas – 904,078
    8. San Diego, California – 875,538
    9. Phoenix, Arizona – 789,704
    10. Baltimore, Maryland – 786,775

    Sports:

    World Series Champions: Philadelphia Phillies
    Super Bowl XIV Champions: Pittsburgh Steelers
    NBA Champions: Los Angeles Lakers
    Stanley Cup Champs: New York Islanders
    U.S. Open Golf Jack Nicklaus
    U.S. Tennis: (Men/Ladies) John McEnroe/Chris Evert Lloyd
    Wimbledon (Men/Women): Bjorn Borg/Evonne Cawley
    NCAA Football Champions: Georgia
    NCAA Basketball Champions: Louiseville
    Kentucky Derby: Genuine Risk

    More 1980 Facts and History Resources:

    Most Popular Baby Names (BabyCenter.com)
    Popular and Notable Books (popculture.us)
    Broadway Shows that Opened in 1980X
    1980 Calendar, courtesy of Time and Date.com
    Everything 80s Podcast 1980
    Fact Monster
    1980s, Infoplease.com World History
    Mount St. Helens Eruption
    1980 in Movies (according to IMDB)
    1980 Top Movies (according to BoxOfficeMojo)
    Retrowaste Vintage Culture
    80s Facts About the 80s(Mental Floss)
    1980s Slang
    1980s Timeline (Security and Exchange Commission)
    1980 US Census Fast Facts
    Wikipedia 1980

     

  • 1980 Music – The 100 Most Popular Songs

    1980 Music – The 100 Most Popular Songs

    1980 Music Hits Chart

    1. You Shook Me All Night Long – AC/DC
    3. Another One Bites The Dust – Queen
    4. Another Brick In The Wall (part 2) – Pink Floyd
    5. Funkytown – Lipps Incorporated
    6. Rapper’s Delight – Sugarhill Gang
    7. What I Like About You – Romantics
    8. Master Blaster (Jammin) – Stevie Wonder
    9. On The Road Again – Willie Nelson
    10. Fame – Irene Cara
    11. Ladies Night – Kool and the Gang
    12. Take Your Time (Do It Right) – S.O.S. Band
    13. He’s So Shy – Pointer Sisters
    14. Feels Like I’m In Love – Kelly Marie
    15. One In A Million You – Larry Graham
    16. Any Way You Want It – Journey
    17. The Rose – Bette Midler
    18. Could I Have This Dance – Anne Murray
    19. Off The Wall – Michael Jackson
    20. Rock With You – Michael Jackson
    21. I Wanna Be Your Lover – Prince
    22. Upside Down – Diana Ross
    23. On The Radio – Donna Summer
    24. Volcano – Jimmy Buffet
    25. Lady – Kenny Rogers
    26. Whip It – Devo
    27. Love Stinks – J. Geils Band
    28. Cheap Sunglasses – ZZ Top
    29. You Better Run – Pat Benatar
    30. Look What You’ve Done To Me – Boz Scaggs
    31. Hit Me With Your Best Shot – Pat Benatar
    32. Misunderstanding – Genesis
    33. Heartbreaker – Pat Benatar
    34. This Is It – Kenny Loggins
    35. Cocaine – Eric Clapton
    36. You May Be Right – Billy Joel
    37. The Long Run – Eagles
    38. My Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys – Willie Nelson
    39. I’m Alright – Kenny Loggins
    40. Rock Lobster – B-52s
    41. Do That To Me One More Time – The Captain and Tenille
    42. Call Me – Blondie
    43. Love X Love – George Benson
    44. Against The Wind – Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band
    45. I Don’t Like Mondays – Boomtown Rats
    46. I’m Coming Out – Diana Ross
    47. Don’t Push It Don’t Force It – Leon Haywood
    48. Remember (Walking In The Sand) – Aerosmith
    49. (Just Like) Starting Over – John Lennon
    50. Crazy Little Thing Called Love – Queen
    51. Dreamer – Supertramp
    52. Hungry Heart – Bruce Springsteen
    53. Could I Have This Dance – Anne Murray
    54. Turn It On Again – Genesis
    55. Special Lady – Ray Goodman and Brown
    56. Games Without Frontiers – Peter Gabriel
    57. Give Me The Night – George Benson
    58. Brass In Pocket – Pretenders
    59. It’s Still Rock and Roll To Me – Billy Joel
    60. Train In Vain (Stand By Me) – The Clash
    61. Working My Way Back To You (Forgive Me Girl) – The Spinners
    62. Angeline – Allman Brothers Band
    63. Alabama Getaway – Grateful Dead
    64. All Out Of Love – Air Supply
    65. The Breaks – Kurtis Blow
    66. 99 – Toto
    67. Into The Night – Benny Mardones
    68. I Got You – Split Enz
    69. Don’t Misunderstand Me – Rossington Collins Band
    70. Dirty Water – The Inmates
    71. Cars – Gary Numan
    72. Back Of My Hand (I’ve Got Your Number) – The Jags
    73. Say Goodbye To Little Jo – Steve Forbert
    74. Tired of Toein’ The Line – Rocky Burnett
    75. Private Idaho – B-52s
    76. Wango Tango – Ted Nugent
    77. Steal Away – Robbie Dupree
    78. Clones (We’re All) – Alice Cooper
    79. Money – The Flying Lizards
    80. Turning Japanese – The Vapors
    81. Lola (Live) – The Kinks
    82. Sequel – Harry Chapin
    83. Breakfast In America – Supertramp
    84. Emotional Rescue – Rolling Stones
    85. Cruisin’ – Smokey Robinson
    86. Sequel – HarryChapin
    87. Cupid/I’ve Loved You For A Long Time – Spinners
    88. The Spirit Of Radio – Rush
    89. Think About Me – Fleetwood Mac
    90. Stomp! – The Brothers Johnson
    91. Longer – Dan Fogelberg
    92. She’s So Cold – Rolling Stones
    93. Don’t Do Me Like That – Tom Pettry and the Heartbreakers
    94. Sometimes A Fantasy – Billy Joel
    95. Jo-Jo – Boz Scaggs
    96. And The Cradle Will Rock – Van Halen
    97. Rotation – Herb Alpert
    98. Stop Your Sobbing – The Pretenders
    99. Run Like Hell – Pink Floyd
    100. Trickle Trickle – The Manhattan Transfer
  • 1980 Oscars 52nd Academy Awards

    1980 Oscars 52nd Academy Awards

    1980 Oscars 52nd Academy Awards

    Winners Announced: April 14, 1980
    Held at: Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Los Angeles, California
    Host: Johnny Carson
    Eligibility Year: 1979

    Red Carpet Trivia

    1. Battle of the Spouses: Kramer vs. Kramer, a film about a custody battle, was the big winner of the night, taking home Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor for Dustin Hoffman.
    2. Host with the Most: Johnny Carson was no stranger to hosting, being a familiar face on late-night TV. This year, he added his characteristic wit to the Oscars ceremony.
    3. Revolving Roles: Meryl Streep won her first Oscar for Best Supporting Actress in Kramer vs. Kramer this year. Interestingly, the role was initially given to Kate Jackson, who had to turn it down due to scheduling conflicts.
    4. A Comic Icon: Peter Sellers was posthumously nominated for his role in Being There. Sadly, he passed away just a few months after the ceremony.
    5. War and Pieces: Apocalypse Now, Francis Ford Coppola’s epic about the Vietnam War, was nominated for eight awards but only won two: Best Cinematography and Best Sound.
    6. From 007 to Oscar: The James Bond film Moonraker was nominated for Best Visual Effects, a nod to the franchise’s ever-evolving technological prowess.
    7. Young Talent: Justin Henry, the young actor from Kramer vs. Kramer, became one of the youngest actors ever to be nominated for an Academy Award.
    8. All That Jazz and Kramer vs. Kramer each earned 9 nominations. Kramer vs Kramer won 5 Oscars. All That Jazz won 4.

    1980 Oscar Nominees and Winners

    Best Picture:
    Kramer vs. Kramer – Stanley R. Jaffe, producer (WINNER)
    All That Jazz – Robert Alan Aurthur, producer (posthumous nomination)
    Apocalypse Now – Francis Coppola, producer; Fred Roos, Gray Frederickson and Tom Sternberg, co-producers
    Breaking Away – Peter Yates, producer
    Norma Rae – Tamara Asseyev and Alex Rose, producers
    Best Director:
    Robert Benton – Kramer vs. Kramer (WINNER)
    Bob Fosse – All That Jazz
    Francis Ford Coppola – Apocalypse Now
    Peter Yates – Breaking Away
    Édouard Molinaro – La Cage aux Folles
    Best Actor:
    Dustin Hoffman – Kramer vs. Kramer as Ted Kramer (WINNER)
    Jack Lemmon – The China Syndrome as Jack Godell
    Al Pacino – …And Justice for All. as Arthur Kirkland
    Roy Scheider – All That Jazz as Joseph “Joe” Gideon
    Peter Sellers – Being There as Chance
    Best Actress:
    Sally Field – Norma Rae as Norma Rae Webster (WINNER)
    Jill Clayburgh – Starting Over as Marilyn Holmberg
    Jane Fonda – The China Syndrome as Kimberly Wells
    Marsha Mason – Chapter Two as Jennie MacLaine
    Bette Midler – The Rose as Mary Rose Foster
    Best Supporting Actor:
    Melvyn Douglas – Being There as Ben Rand (WINNER)
    Robert Duvall – Apocalypse Now as Lieutenant Colonel William “Bill” Kilgore
    Frederic Forrest – The Rose as Huston Dyer
    Justin Henry – Kramer vs. Kramer as Billy Kramer
    Mickey Rooney – The Black Stallion as Henry Dailey
    Best Supporting Actress:
    Meryl Streep – Kramer vs. Kramer as Joanna Kramer (WINNER)
    Jane Alexander – Kramer vs. Kramer as Margaret Phelps
    Barbara Barrie – Breaking Away as Evelyn Stoller
    Candice Bergen – Starting Over as Jessica Potter
    Mariel Hemingway – Manhattan as Tracy
    Best Screenplay Written Directly for the Screen:
    Breaking Away – Steve Tesich (WINNER)
    All That Jazz – Robert Alan Aurthur (posthumous nomination) and Bob Fosse
    …And Justice for All – Valerie Curtin and Barry Levinson
    The China Syndrome – Mike Gray, T. S. Cook, and James Bridges
    Manhattan – Woody Allen and Marshall Brickman
    Best Screenplay Based on Material from Another Medium:
    Kramer vs. Kramer – Robert Benton based on the novel by Avery Corman (WINNER)
    Apocalypse Now – Francis Coppola and John Milius based on the novel Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad
    La Cage aux Folles – Francis Veber, Édouard Molinaro, Marcello Danon and Jean Poiret based on the play by Jean Poiret
    A Little Romance – Allan Burns based on the novel E=MC2 mon amour by Patrick Cauvin
    Norma Rae – Irving Ravetch and Harriet Frank Jr. based on the book Crystal Lee, a Woman of Inheritance by Hank Leiferman
    Best Foreign Language Film:
    The Tin Drum (Federal Republic of Germany – West) (WINNER)
    The Maids of Wilko (Poland)
    Mama Turns 100 (Spain)
    A Simple Story (France)
    To Forget Venice (Italy)
    Best Documentary Feature:
    Best Boy – Ira Wohl (WINNER)
    Generation on the Wind – David A. Vassar
    Going the Distance – Paul Cowan and Jacques Bobet
    The Killing Ground – Steve Singer and Tom Priestley
    The War at Home – Glenn Silber and Barry Alexander Brown
    Best Documentary Short Subject:
    Paul Robeson: Tribute to an Artist – Saul J. Turell (WINNER)
    Dae – Risto Teofilovski
    Koryo Celadon – Donald A. Connolly and James R. Messenger
    Nails – Phillip Borsos
    Remember Me – Dick Young
    Best Live Action Short Film:
    Board and Care – Sarah Pillsbury and Ron Ellis (WINNER)
    Bravery in the Field – Roman Kroitor and Stefan Wodoslawsky
    Oh Brother, My Brother – Carol Lowell and Ross Lowell
    The Solar Film – Saul Bass and Michael Britton
    Solly’s Diner – Harry Mathias, Jay Zukerman and Larry Hankin
    Best Animated Short Film:
    Every Child – Derek Lamb (WINNER)
    Dream Doll – Bob Godfrey
    Its So Nice to Have a Wolf Around the House – Paul Fierlinger
    Best Original Score:
    A Little Romance – Georges Delerue (WINNER)
    10 – Henry Mancini
    The Amityville Horror – Lalo Schifrin
    The Champ – Dave Grusin
    Star Trek: The Motion Picture – Jerry Goldsmith
    Best Original Song Score and Its Adaptation or Adaptation Score:
    All That Jazz – Ralph Burns (WINNER)
    Breaking Away – Patrick Williams
    The Muppet Movie – Songs by Paul Williams and Kenny Ascher; Adaptation by Paul Williams
    Best Original Song:
    “It Goes Like It Goes” from Norma Rae – Music by David Shire; Lyrics by Norman Gimbel (WINNER)
    “I’ll Never Say Goodbye” from The Promise – Music by David Shire; Lyrics by Alan and Marilyn Bergman
    “It’s Easy to Say” from 10 – Music by Henry Mancini; Lyrics by Robert Wells
    “Rainbow Connection” from The Muppet Movie – Music and Lyrics by Paul Williams and Kenny Ascher
    “Through the Eyes of Love” from Ice Castles – Music by Marvin Hamlisch; Lyrics by Carole Bayer Sager
    Best Sound:
    Apocalypse Now – Walter Murch, Mark Berger, Richard Beggs and Nat Boxer (WINNER)
    1941 – Robert Knudson, Robert Glass, Don MacDougall and Gene Cantamessa
    The Electric Horseman – Arthur Piantadosi, Les Fresholtz, Michael Minkler and Al Overton Jr.
    Meteor – William McCaughey, Aaron Rochin, Michael J. Kohut and Jack Solomon
    The Rose – Theodore Soderberg, Douglas Williams, Paul Wells and Jim Webb
    Best Costume Design:
    All That Jazz – Albert Wolsky (WINNER)
    Agatha – Shirley Russell
    Butch and Sundance: The Early Days – William Ware Theiss
    The Europeans – Judy Moorcroft
    La Cage aux Folles – Piero Tosi and Ambra Danon
    Best Art Direction:
    All That Jazz – Art Direction: Philip Rosenberg and Tony Walton; Set Decoration: Edward Stewart and Gary J. Brink (WINNER)
    Alien – Art Direction: Michael Seymour, Leslie Dilley and Roger Christian; Set Decoration: Ian Whittaker
    Apocalypse Now – Art Direction: Dean Tavoularis and Angelo P. Graham; Set Decoration: George R. Nelson
    The China Syndrome – Art Direction: George Jenkins; Set Decoration: Arthur Jeph Parker
    Star Trek: The Motion Picture – Art Direction: Harold Michelson, Joe Jennings, Leon Harris and John Vallone; Set Decoration: Linda DeScenna
    Best Cinematography:
    Apocalypse Now – Vittorio Storaro (WINNER)
    1941 – William A. Fraker
    All That Jazz – Giuseppe Rotunno
    The Black Hole – Frank Phillips
    Kramer vs. Kramer – Néstor Almendros
    Best Film Editing:
    All That Jazz – Alan Heim (WINNER)
    Apocalypse Now – Richard Marks, Walter Murch, Gerald B. Greenberg and Lisa Fruchtman
    The Black Stallion – Robert Dalva
    Kramer vs. Kramer – Jerry Greenberg
    The Rose – Robert L. Wolfe and C. Timothy O’Meara
    Best Visual Effects:
    Alien – H. R. Giger, Carlo Rambaldi, Brian Johnson, Nick Allder and Dennis Ayling (WINNER)
    1941 – Gregory Jein, William A. Fraker and A. D. Flowers
    The Black Hole – Peter Ellenshaw, Art Cruickshank, Eustace Lycett, Danny Lee, Harrison Ellenshaw and Joe Hale
    Moonraker – Derek Meddings, Paul Wilson and John Evans
    Star Trek: The Motion Picture – Douglas Trumbull, John Dykstra, Richard Yuricich, Robert Swarthe, Dave Stewart and Grant McCune
    Special Achievement Award:
    Alan Splet for sound effects editing in The Black Stallion
    Academy Honorary Awards:
    Hal Elias
    Alec Guinness
    Medal of Commendation:
    John O. Aalberg
    Charles G. Clarke
    John G. Frayne
    Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award:
    Robert Benjamin
    Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award:
    Ray Stark
    Oscar® and Academy Awards® and Oscar® design mark are the trademarks and service marks and the Oscar© statuette the copyrighted property, of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Pop Culture Madness is neither endorsed by nor affiliated with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
  • 1980 Grammy Award Winners

    1980 Grammy Award Winners

    1980 Grammy Awards Winners

    Winners Announced: February 27, 1980
    Held at: Shrine Auditorium, Los Angeles, California
    Host: Kenny Rogers
    Eligibility Year: October 1, 1978 – September 30, 1979

    Tune Into the Trivia

    1. Kenny’s Kingdom: Host Kenny Rogers was already a huge name in country music by this time, and his hosting role elevated the genre’s profile at the Grammys.
    2. Disco Inferno: The year 1980 was a crucial year for disco. The Bee Gees were still riding the wave of their late-’70s success and snagged multiple nominations.
    3. Sibling Harmony: The Doobie Brothers won Record of the Year for “What a Fool Believes,” which Michael McDonald and Kenny Loggins co-written.
    4. Thrills and ‘Trills’: Billy Joel’s 52nd Street won Album of the Year, making him one of the notable artists to leap from pop to a more rock-oriented sound.
    5. The Diva’s Start: This year marked one of the earliest Grammy wins for Donna Summer, setting the stage for her reign as the “Queen of Disco.”
    6. From Films to Grammys: “Afternoon Delight” by the Starland Vocal Band, famously featured in the movie Anchorman, won Best Arrangement for Voices.
    7. Wings Take Flight: Paul McCartney’s band, Wings, was honored for their rock performance, showcasing that The Beatles’ members could find success even after the iconic group disbanded.

    1980 Grammy Winners

    Record of the Year:
    What a Fool Believes – Doobie Brothers
    Album of the Year:
    52nd Street, Billy Joel (Columbia)
    Song of the Year:
    What a Fool Believes – Kenny Loggins and Michael McDonald, songwriters
    Best New Artist:
    Rickie Lee Jones
    Best Pop Vocal Performance, Male:
    52nd Street, Billy Joel
    Best Pop Vocal Performance, Female:
    I’ll Never Love This Way Again – Dionne Warwick
    Best Pop Vocal Performance By a Duo, Group or Chorus:
    Minute by Minute, Doobie Brothers
    Best Pop Instrumental Performance:
    Rise – Herb Alpert
    Best Rock Vocal Performance, Male:
    Gotta Serve Somebody – Bob Dylan
    Best Rock Vocal Performance, Female:
    Hot Stuff – Donna Summer
    Best Rock Vocal Performance By a Duo or Group:
    Heartache Tonight – Eagles
    Best Rock Instrumental Performance:
    Rockestra Theme – Wings
    Best Rhythm and Blues Song:
    After the Love Has Gone – David Foster, Jay Graydon and Bill Champlin, songwriters
    Best Rhythm and Blues Vocal Performance, Male:
    Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough – Michael Jackson
    Best Rhythm and Blues Vocal Performance, Female:
    Deja Vu – Dionne Warwick
    Best Rhythm and Blues Vocal Performance By a Duo, Group or Chorus:
    After the Love Has Gone – Earth, Wind and Fire
    Best Rhythm and Blues Instrumental Performance:
    Boogie Wonderland – Earth, Wind and Fire
    Best Disco Recording:
    I Will Survive – Gloria Gaynor (Polydor)
    Best Jazz Vocal Performance:
    Fine and Mellow, Ella Fitzgerald
    Best Jazz Instrumental Performance, Soloist:
    Jousts, Oscar Peterson
    Best Jazz Instrumental Performance, Group:
    Duet, Gary Burton and Chick Corea
    Best Jazz Instrumental Performance, Big Band:
    At Fargo, 1940 Live, Duke Ellington
    Best Jazz Fusion Performance, Vocal or Instrumental:
    8:30, Weather Report
    Best Country Song:
    You Decorated My Life – Debbie Hupp and Bob Morrison, songwriters
    Best Country Vocal Performance, Male:
    The Gambler – Kenny Rogers
    Best Country Vocal Performance, Female:
    Blue Kentucky Girl, Emmylou Harris
    Best Country Vocal Performance By a Duo or Group:
    The Devil Went Down to Georgia – Charlie Daniels Band
    Best Country Instrumental Performance:
    Big Sandy/Leather Britches – Doc and Merle Watson
    Best Gospel Performance, Contemporary or Inspirational:
    Heed the Call, Imperials
    Best Gospel Performance, Traditional:
    Lift Up the Name of Jesus, Blackwood Brothers
    Best Soul Gospel Performance, Contemporary:
    I’ll Be Thinking of You, Andrae Crouch
    Best Soul Gospel Performance, Traditional:
    Changing Times, Mighty Clouds of Joy
    Best Latin Recording:
    Irakere, Irakere (Columbia)
    Best Inspirational Performance:
    You Gave Me Love (When Nobody Gave Me a Prayer), B.J. Thomas
    Best Ethnic or Traditional Recording:
    Muddy Mississippi Waters Live, Muddy Waters (Sky/CBS)
    Best Instrumental Arrangement:
    Soulful Strut – Claus Ogerman, arranger
    Best Arrangement Accompanying Vocalist(s):
    What a Fool Believes – Michael McDonald, arranger
    Best Instrumental Composition:
    Main Title Theme From Superman – John Williams, composer
    Best Cast Show Album:
    Sweeney Todd, Stephen Sondheim, composer and Iyricist (RCA)
    Best Album of Original Score Written for a Motion Picture or a Television Special:
    Superman, John Williams, composer (Warner Bros.)
    Best Classical Album:
    Brahms, Symphonies Complete, Sir Georg Solti conducting Chicago Symphony Orchestra (London)
    Best Classical Orchestral Recording:
    Brahms, Symphonies Complete, Sir Georg Solti conducting Chicago Symphony Orchestra (London)
    Best Chamber Music Performance:
    Copland, Appalachian Spring, Dennis Russell Davies conducting St. Paul Chamber Orchestra
    Best Classical Performance, Instrumental:
    Soloist(s) (With Orchestra) Bartók, Concertos for Piano nos. 1 and 2, Maurizio Pollini; Abbado conducting Chicago Symphony Orchestra
    Best Classical Performance, Instrumental Soloist(s) (Without Orchestra):
    The Horowitz Concerts 1978/79, Vladimir Horowitz
    Best Opera Recording:
    Britten, Peter Grimes, Colin Davis conducting Orchestra and Chorus of the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden; solos: Vickers, Harper and Summers (Philips)
    Best Choral Performance, Classical (Other Than Opera):
    Brahms, A German Requiem, Sir Georg Solti, conductor and Margaret Hillis, choral director, Chicago Symphony Chorus and Orchestra
    Best Classical Vocal Soloist Performance:
    O Sole Mio, Luciano Pavarotti
    Best Comedy Recording:
    Reality… What a Concept, Robin Williams (Casablanca)
    Best Spoken Word, Documentary or Drama Recording:
    Ages of Man (Readings From Shakespeare), Sir John Gielgud (Caedmon)
    Best Recording for Children:
    The Muppet Movie, Jim Henson, creator (Atlantic)
    Best Album Package:
    Breakfast in America, Mike Doud and Mick Haggerty, art directors (A&M)
    Best Album Notes:
    Charlie Parker: The Complete Savoy Sessions, Bob Porter and James Patrick, annotators (Savoy)
    Best Historical Reissue:
    Billie Holiday (Giants of Jazz) (Time Life)
    Producer of the Year (Non-Classical):
    Larry Butler
    Classical Producer of the Year:
    James Mallinson