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Classic stardom. However, there were also many Orchestra (ELO) features a unique blend near the end of that decade. The former
other relatively lesser-known artists during
of instruments, including the violin and describes a woman yearning for her lover
HITS this period who became an overnight cello, that helps complement the chorus, who takes the morning train daily, with
success. In many of their hit songs, four
which describes the highs and lows of the song embodying the era’s optimism
from the 80s main aspects were quintessential of a relationships. In the song “West End Girls” and romanticism. It also happened to be a
by the English synth-pop duo Pet Shop favourite of the late Queen. Meanwhile, the
classic hit from that era.
Boys, the chorus, which so happens to be latter referenced many people, historical
Firstly, hits from that era had an the song’s title, is reverberated throughout events, and issues from the first 40 years of
Written by Teoh Ooi Pin Liang Sr2ScA impressive rhythm structure. The 80s the song. Billy Joel’s life, with its lyrics delivered in
witnessed the widespread use of electronic rapid-fire motion.
Since time immemorial, music has instruments and synthesisers, which gave Moreover, catchy melodies were also
impacted the lives of individuals globally. birth to rhythmic patterns that were a common hallmark of many 1980s hits. In conclusion, each style represents
The 1980s marked a new era in the music infectious and danceable. This contributed They possess an infectious and captivating a facet of the decade, reflecting its energy,
industry. This period saw the emergence to a distinct rhythmic style in many hits. melody, coupled with catchy hooks that historical and cultural shift. They serve as
of a new wave of dance music, also known In some songs, the energetic and pulsating are effective in attracting the listeners’ an identity and a representation of a whole
as Modern Rock. Many singers such as beats in their tune were often coupled attention. Hit songs also tend to have a well- generation, subtly leaving its mark on
Madonna and Michael Jackson achieved with a steady bassline. For instance, “The crafted and balanced melodic structure history. Hopefully these hits will continue
Logical Song” by Supertramp incorporates that builds up tension and anticipation, to stand the test of time and not perish
an unforgettable piano intro and contains leading to a soaring and explosive chorus. from the memory of individuals in this
dynamic changes in rhythm structure, In addition, vocal performance is also a present day and age.
highlighted by the use of saxophones, key component in determining a song’s
which leaves a lasting impression on success. For example, Dionne Warwick’s
listeners. It is also relatable to students, exceptional vocal performance in the 1982
as the song reflects the singer’s quest for hit song “Heartbreaker” added emotional
personal identity in a world that stifles depth and subtle variations in pitch and
individuality and originalism. In the hit tone to the song. Meanwhile, Olivia
soft rock song “Every Breath You Take” Newton-John’s “Xanadu” also included a
by The Police, a prominent backbeat is catchy and upbeat melody and a memorable
provided by the drums and bass in the musical backdrop, thanks in part to ELO’s
background, which injects energy and life signature pop-rock sound.
into its rhythm.
Last but not least, many hit songs
Besides, many hits tend to have also included lyrics that were easy to
repeated choruses. This repetition helps remember. They featured lyrics that were
listeners easily familiarise themselves straightforward and relatable to listeners.
with the song’s theme and message for These lyrics often conveyed simple messages
them to sing along to. Therefore, it also and ideas for others to resonate with them.
enhances the song’s emotional impact on Others may stand out due to their odd lyric
them at a subconscious level. It can also structures and the meaning behind them.
make it easier for individuals to identify A few examples include “my baby takes the
segments of the song while it’s played on morning train” by Sheena Easton and “we
the radio. “Livin Thing” by Electric Light didn’t start the fire” by Billy Joel, released
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