Several recent tracks released by prominent musical artists have one thing in common - the '80s sound. The likes of Dua Lipa, The Weeknd, and Little Mix are putting back the iconic beat, look, and feel into the mainstream. Dua Lipa's "Let's Get Physical Workout Video" is an '80s retro-themed video that shows her as an aerobics instructor. She wears a tanga while leading an old-school fitness class. Her gym buddies sport neon-colored lycra, leotards, and sweatbands. Classic workout moves are featured, such as the Step Back Step Touch, the Fonda, Hip Thruster, Rump Shaker, and Crybaby. The upbeat tune is inspired by disco and electronica, which are the distinct sounds of the '80s. The work out video is reminiscent of Olivia Newton-John's "Physical", which hit the radio in 1981. Watch the music video here -
Dua Lipa and being "Physical"
"Let's Get Physical Workout Video" premiered on March 6 and has, so far, 11M hits on YouTube. The work out video is the second version of the "Physical" song. The first official music video was released on Jan. 31.
Dua Lipa's "Physical" is one of the leading tracks from her sophomore album, "Future Nostalgia."
The Weeknd's Blinding Lights
The most popular track now with '80s effect is The Weeknd's "Blinding Lights". It is the No. 1 hit on Billboard Hot 100. The sound is heavy with the synth-pop keyboard, which is one of the recognizable resonances of the '80s. The Weeknd is reported to be greatly influenced by the legendary Michael Jackson, as evidenced by similarities between the two artists' works. "Blinding Lights" is the second track released from the Canadian singer's fourth studio album, "After Hours." It came out November 29, 2019.
Little Mix "Break Up Song"
Little Mix joined in the fun with their newest track "Break Up Song" released on March 27 with the '80's-inspired theme. The four-girl band of Perrie Edwards, Leigh-Anne Pinnock, Jesy Nelson, and Jade Thrilwall sang about their freedom after going through heartbreaks in a synth-heavy, upbeat tempo. Neon signage, comic-style presentation, diner set-up are some of the '80s tinges in the lyric music video.
1980's Influence
Synthwave is an electronic music flair that characterizes the 1980's movie and game soundtracks. Said style is influencing pop music once again, even if the artists were born past that era. The '80s sound created a huge impact in the music period, and people do not seem to get tired of it.
Even current fashion and TV shows are rolling in with '80s throwback, as predicted in 2018. With music, it is the return of the synthesizers. For fashion, the looks of bold colored pieces, oversized jackets, and blazers, floral prints, bleached and acid-washed denim come into mind. Billie Eilish wears this to a T, donning on oversized tunics that speak about freedom in clothing, so much like the '80s.
Even with Niall Horan's "Heartbreak Weather", the title track of his latest album, there are hints of '80s from his turtleneck outfits in the newsroom and loungewear on a pool chair.
On the screen, '80s theme is the look of the Netflix hit series, "Stranger Things". This influence is most evident from the music, costume, and the setting. Starcourt Mall, in the said show, had all the colors and aesthetics representing the decade.
