As we close the book on the 1980s, oldsters Lou Reed and Neil Young and Van Morisson were still releasing fine albums, while The Replacements were making their last gasp effort for the mainstream.
Public Enemy fought the power and The Beastie Boys released their brilliant Paul’s Boutique album. As we look back at the decade, we were able to survive a decade of synth-pop, kitschy videos, and electronic drums. As we peek around the corner to the ‘90s, I’m seeing flannel.
Back to Life, Soul II Soul
Bust a Move, Young MC
Callin’ Baton Rouge, New Grass Revival
Deeper Than the Holler, Randy Travis
Egg Man, The Beastie Boys
Fight the Power, Public Enemy
Free Fallin’, Tom Petty
The Gas Face, 3rdBass
Good Thing, Fine Young Cannibals
Have I Told You Lately, Van Morrison
Here Comes Your Man, The Pixies
I’ll Be You, The Replacements
Let the Day Begin, The Call
Like a Prayer, Madonna
Love Shack, The B-52s
Lovesong, The Cure
Mixed Emotions, The Rolling Stones
Once Bitten Twice Shy, Great White
Paradise City, Guns N’ Roses
Personal Jesus, Depeche Mode
Rhythm Nation, Janet Jackson
Rockin’ in the Free World, Neil Young and Crazy Horse
Romeo Had Juliette, Lou Reed
Valerie, Marshall Crenshaw