80's Retro Groove

Running up that Hill - Kate Bush

"Running Up That Hill" was the first song Bush composed for her fifth album, Hounds of Love (1985). She wrote it in a single evening at her home. The song is about swapping places with another person in an attempt to understand things from their perspective. It's about a relationship between a man and a woman. They love each other very much, and the power of the relationship is something that gets in the way. It creates insecurities. It says that if the man could be the woman and the woman be the man, by making a deal with God, to change places, that they'd be able to understand what it is like to be the other person and perhaps it would clear up misunderstandings.

Material Girl - Madonna 

Madonna's rise in the 1980s was meteoric, with "Material Girl" emblematic of her ascent. Released in 1984 on her second album, "Like a Virgin," the song's catchy beat and provocative lyrics captured the era's consumerist ethos. The accompanying video, inspired by Marilyn Monroe's performance of "Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend," cemented Madonna's image as a bold and independent pop icon. Her ability to blend music, fashion, and controversy resonated with a young, dynamic audience, propelling her to superstardom and defining her as a pivotal figure in the decade's cultural landscape.

Edge of Seventeen - Stevie Nicks

"Edge of Seventeen" by Stevie Nicks is inspired by the simultaneous losses of her uncle Jonathan and John Lennon in December 1980. The song explores themes of grief and the passage of time, symbolized by the "white-winged dove," which represents the spirit leaving the body. The phrase "white-winged dove" also ties to peace for Lennon and natural imagery for her uncle. Nicks' emotional journey through these deaths is captured in the lyrics, making the song a powerful reflection on loss and resilience.

Maneater - Daryl Hall & John Oates

"Maneater" by Hall and Oates is about a dangerous woman who uses her allure to exploit men, driven by greed rather than genuine affection. The song's metaphor describes this predatory nature, warning men to be cautious of her. Originally conceived with a reggae influence, it evolved into a hit with a Motown groove. The lyrics, featuring clever wordplay and vivid imagery, capture the essence of a femme fatale who consumes her lovers emotionally and financially.

Footloose - Kenny Loggins

"Footloose" by Kenny Loggins, written for the 1984 movie of the same name, is an anthem about breaking free from restrictions and embracing the joy of dancing. Inspired by a real-life story of a town that banned dancing, the song captures the rebellious spirit of the film’s characters who fight for their right to dance. Its upbeat, carefree melody and lyrics encourage listeners to let loose and enjoy the moment.

Heaven - Bryan Adams

"Summer of '69" by Bryan Adams is a nostalgic reflection on the carefree days of youth. The song reminisces about forming a band, falling in love, and the simple joys of being young. Despite the challenges and changes over time, the memories of that summer remain vivid and cherished. It captures the essence of youthful exuberance and the enduring impact of those formative years.

Welcome to The Jungle - Guns N Roses

"Welcome to the Jungle" by Guns N' Roses reflects the gritty and chaotic life in Hollywood. Inspired by Axl Rose’s experiences moving to the city from a small town, the song depicts the allure and dangers of the urban jungle. The lyrics convey a raw, unfiltered look at the struggles and temptations of life on the streets. It captures the band's rebellious spirit and their firsthand experiences with the dark side of fame and success.

Livin' on a Prayer - Bon Jovi

"Livin' on a Prayer" by Bon Jovi tells the story of a young working-class couple, Tommy and Gina, struggling to make ends meet but holding on to their love and dreams. Despite their hardships, they support each other, embodying resilience and hope. The song’s powerful message resonates with many, highlighting the importance of perseverance and belief in the face of adversity.

Piano Man - Billy Joel

"Billy Joel's song 'Piano Man' is a narrative of the characters he encountered while performing at The Executive Room bar in Los Angeles during the early 1970s. The song features real-life individuals like John, the bartender, and Paul, a real estate agent aspiring to write a novel. Joel's first wife, Elizabeth Weber, also appears as the waitress practicing politics. 

The song is composed in 3/4 time, giving it a waltz-like rhythm, and is characterized by its use of piano, harmonica, and other instruments to create a rich musical tapestry. Released as his first single in North America in 1973, 'Piano Man' became one of Joel's signature hits, despite initial concerns from Columbia Records about its length. Over the years, it has become an enduring classic, celebrated for its storytelling and the vivid portrayal of its characters.

Bette Davis Eyes - Kim Carnes

“Bette Davis Eyes” by Kim Carnes is a celebrated hit that uses the iconic actress Bette Davis as a metaphor to describe a captivating woman. The song highlights the allure and intensity of a woman whose eyes are both mesmerizing and formidable. The lyrics compare her gaze to Bette Davis’s dramatic and powerful screen presence, suggesting that her eyes alone convey deep emotion and strength. The chorus and verses emphasize the woman’s irresistible charm and unique power, drawing a parallel to the unforgettable personas Davis portrayed in her films. Overall, the song is a tribute to the magnetic and almost otherworldly qualities of someone who stands out distinctly from the crowd.

- Adeline