Ep 5. 1986

A Year in Music season 3 episode 5 takes a deep dive into the musical landscape of the year 1986. Hosted by renowned music critic and historian, this episode explores the major breakthroughs and trends in the music industry that shaped the pop culture of the late 80s and early 90s.

The episode begins with an introduction to 1986, a year that witnessed a remarkable shift in the music industry. The rise of MTV and the growing popularity of music videos led to a surge in visual artistry and showmanship in music. Iconic artists like Michael Jackson, Madonna, and Prince capitalized on this trend and released highly choreographed and visually stunning videos that proved to be game-changers in the music industry.

The episode then delves deeper into the various genres that dominated the charts in 1986. The year saw the emergence of synth-pop as a major force in music, with bands like Pet Shop Boys, Depeche Mode, and Erasure gaining widespread popularity. The episode highlights the contribution of these bands in popularizing electronic music and paving the way for future artists like Daft Punk and The Chemical Brothers.

The episode also discusses the role of hip-hop in 1986, a genre that was still in its infancy but was already making waves on the underground scene. The emergence of Run-DMC and their collaboration with Aerosmith on "Walk This Way" is discussed as a pivotal moment for both hip-hop and rock music, paving the way for future collaborations between artists from different genres.

Another major trend in 1986 was the rise of the power ballad. Ballads like "Total Eclipse of the Heart" by Bonnie Tyler, "The Wind Beneath My Wings" by Bette Midler, and "Take My Breath Away" by Berlin captured the hearts of music lovers and became chart-toppers. The episode examines the emergence of this trend and the factors that contributed to its popularity.

The episode also pays homage to the artists who left their mark on the music industry in 1986 but are no longer with us. Artists like Falco, a pioneer of new wave music, and jazz legend Benny Goodman passed away in 1986, leaving a void in the music world.

Throughout the episode, the host engages in insightful conversations with music critics, historians, and industry insiders who provide their perspectives on the various trends and breakthroughs in music in 1986.

In conclusion, A Year in Music season 3 episode 5 provides an in-depth look at the musical landscape of 1986, a year that marked a significant shift in the industry. From the rise of synth-pop to the emergence of hip-hop, the episode highlights the major trends and breakthroughs that shaped the pop culture of the late 80s and early 90s. With insightful commentary and interviews, the episode is a must-watch for music lovers and industry enthusiasts.