Do you remember the 80’s? The decade of shoulder pads, big hair, and some of the most iconic music in history. Whether you lived through it or just love the tunes, test your knowledge with these 1980’s music trivia questions and answers. Get ready to transport yourself back in time to a decade of neon and leg warmers.
First Question: Who sang the hit song “Girls Just Want to Have Fun”?
Answer: Cyndi Lauper. This song was released in 1983 and became an instant hit. Its upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics continue to be a favorite of many to this day.
Second Question: Which iconic 80’s band sang the hit song “Livin’ on a Prayer”?
Answer: Bon Jovi. This song, released in 1986, is still played at sporting events as a pump-up anthem. The band continues to tour and make music to this day, making them one of the most enduring acts of the era.
Third Question: In what year did Michael Jackson release his hit album “Thriller”?
Answer: 1982. This landmark album featured such hits as “Beat It” and “Billie Jean” and catapulted Jackson to superstardom. He would go on to become one of the most iconic pop stars in history before his untimely death in 2009.
Fourth Question: Who was the lead singer of the band Wham!?
Answer: George Michael. This British duo had some of the biggest hits of the decade, including “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” and “Careless Whisper.” Michael went on to have a successful solo career and continued to make music until his death in 2016.
Fifth Question: Which iconic Madonna hit was released in 1984?
Answer: “Like a Virgin.” This controversial song and its accompanying music video created a sensation and helped cement Madonna’s place as the queen of pop. She remains one of the most influential musicians of all time.
Sixth Question: What was the name of the first rap song to reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100?
Answer: “Rapper’s Delight” by The Sugarhill Gang. This groundbreaking song was released in 1979 and helped bring rap into the mainstream. It remains a classic of the genre.
Seventh Question: Who sang the hit song “Sweet Child o’ Mine”?
Answer: Guns N’ Roses. This iconic rock band had a string of hits in the 80’s and early 90’s, including “November Rain” and “Welcome to the Jungle.” They remain one of the most popular and influential rock bands of all time.
Eighth Question: Who was the first female artist to win Video of the Year at the MTV Video Music Awards?
Answer: Madonna. She won the award in 1987 for her hit song “Borderline.” Madonna’s music videos were groundbreaking and helped revolutionize the medium.
Ninth Question: Who sang the hit song “Every Breath You Take”?
Answer: The Police. This song, released in 1983, topped the charts and became one of the most popular songs of the decade. The Police were one of the most successful bands of the era.
Tenth Question: Who was the first woman to win Album of the Year at the Grammy Awards?
Answer: Carole King. She won the award in 1972 for her album “Tapestry,” which featured such hits as “You’ve Got a Friend” and “It’s Too Late.” King remains one of the most influential singer-songwriters of all time.
Did you do well on the quiz? Whether you aced it or just had fun reminiscing about the music of the 80’s, we hope you enjoyed these trivia questions and answers.
Interesting fact: Did you know that the 1980’s were also known as the “MTV Decade?” This is because MTV launched in 1981 and quickly became a major force in the music industry. Music videos became an essential part of a song’s success and helped launch the careers of such stars as Madonna and Michael Jackson.
Thanks for tuning in for this blast from the past. Until next time, keep on rockin'!
