Music · 1981
The Video Age Begins with Synth and Rock
In 1981, cable television revolutionized the music industry with the launch of MTV, making visual culture as vital as sound. Synth-pop blossomed alongside arena rock and groundbreaking new wave debuts, reshaping global pop music forever.
- August 1, 1981 | Television | USA
MTV Hits the Airwaves
The 24-hour music video channel debuts with The Buggles' 'Video Killed the Radio Star,' changing music consumption forever.
- February 12, 1981 | Rush | Rock
Moving Pictures
Rush releases their definitive masterpiece featuring 'Tom Sawyer,' blending complex progressive arrangements with radio-friendly synth hooks.
- July 8, 1981 | The Go-Go's | New Wave
Beauty and the Beat
The Go-Go's drop their landmark debut, making history as the first all-female band writing their own songs and playing their own instruments to hit number one.
- March 1981 | Kim Carnes | Pop
Bette Davis Eyes
Kim Carnes spends nine weeks at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 with her raspy, synth-drenched cover of the Jackie DeShannon track.
- September 19, 1981 | Live Concert
The Concert in Central Park
Over 500,000 fans gather in New York for Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel's historic free reunion concert.
- August 24, 1981 | The Rolling Stones
Tattoo You
Anchored by the massive hit 'Start Me Up,' this chart-topping album leads into the band's record-breaking 1981 North American tour.
- May 10, 1981 | Kraftwerk | Electronic
Computer World
Kraftwerk foretells the digital age with an influential synth masterpiece that lays the sonic groundwork for future techno, electro, and hip-hop.
- October 16, 1981 | The Human League
Dare
The synth-pop pioneers release their breakthrough record, driven by the immortal dual-vocal single 'Don't You Want Me.'
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