80s Synthpop
tagStarted 1980Peak 1981-1987Last big hit 1989
Located in 2 routes
The Reagan-Thatcher-era heart of the form: shimmering DX7 bells, Linn and Oberheim drum-machine grooves, fat analog basslines, and immaculate vocal hooks built for MTV and Top 40. Productions range from icy and aloof to plush and romantic, defining the decade's chrome-and-neon pop sheen.
History
After Gary Numan and OMD broke through, a flood of British acts conquered the early-80s charts on both sides of the Atlantic during the Second British Invasion. The Human League, Soft Cell, Eurythmics, and Pet Shop Boys turned synthesizers into the pop mainstream's default sound until rock and house reshaped the late-80s landscape.
Defining artists
Essential listening
Sources
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Synth-pop
- https://www.allmusic.com/style/synth-pop-ma0000002601
- https://www.britannica.com/art/synth-pop