Totally Tubular: Exploring the World of 80’s Music Memes

The 1980s. A decade defined by big hair, neon colors, and, of course, iconic music. From synth-pop anthems to power ballads, the 80s soundtracked a generation. But what happens when the music of this era collides with the internet’s favorite pastime: memes? The result is a hilarious and often nostalgic journey through 80’s music memes, offering a unique lens through which to appreciate (or poke fun at) the decade’s musical landscape. This article delves into the world of 80’s music memes, exploring their popularity, dissecting their humor, and examining why this particular decade is so ripe for meme-ification.

Why the 80s? A Decade Ripe for Memeification

So, why are 80’s music memes so prevalent? Several factors contribute to their enduring appeal. Firstly, the 80s produced a wealth of instantly recognizable musical acts. Think Madonna, Michael Jackson, Prince, Bon Jovi – artists whose images and sounds are deeply ingrained in popular culture. This familiarity makes them easy targets for meme creators looking for relatable and recognizable subjects. Secondly, the 80s aesthetic, with its distinctive fashion, hairstyles, and music videos, provides ample fodder for visual gags. The inherent cheesiness of some 80s trends lends itself perfectly to ironic and humorous interpretations. Finally, for many millennials and Gen Xers, 80s music evokes a strong sense of nostalgia. Memes tapping into this nostalgia resonate deeply, creating a shared experience of remembering (and often laughing at) the past. [See also: The Enduring Appeal of 80s Nostalgia]

Common Themes and Tropes in 80’s Music Memes

80’s music memes often revolve around specific themes and tropes. Some common examples include:

• One-Hit Wonders: Memes celebrating (or mocking) artists who achieved fleeting fame with a single catchy song are a recurring theme. Think of Tommy Tutone’s “867-5309/Jenny” or Timbuk 3’s “The Future’s So Bright, I Gotta Wear Shades.”
• Power Ballads: The over-the-top emotionality and soaring vocals of 80s power ballads are frequently parodied. Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin'” is a prime example, often used in memes to represent unwavering optimism or cheesy inspiration.
• Synth-Pop Anthems: The synthesized sounds and futuristic themes of synth-pop lend themselves well to memes about technology, futurism, and the perceived strangeness of the 80s. Depeche Mode and New Order are often featured in these types of memes.
• Music Video Aesthetics: The often-bizarre and low-budget nature of 80s music videos provides endless material for comedic memes. Think of the awkward dance moves, questionable fashion choices, and surreal storylines.
• Lyrical Misinterpretations: Memes that play on misheard lyrics or alternative interpretations of song lyrics are a classic form of internet humor, and 80’s music memes are no exception.

Examples of Hilarious 80’s Music Memes

To illustrate the humor of 80’s music memes, let’s look at some specific examples:

• The “Rickroll”: While technically predating the meme era, Rick Astley’s “Never Gonna Give You Up” has become synonymous with internet pranks. The act of tricking someone into clicking a link that leads to the music video is a quintessential 80s music meme.
• “Don’t Stop Believin'” in Unexpected Places: This Journey anthem has been used in countless memes to represent everything from surviving a tough workout to achieving a mundane task. The song’s inherent optimism, combined with its widespread recognition, makes it a versatile meme template.
• Synth-Pop Album Covers as Reactions: Images from iconic synth-pop album covers, like those of Kraftwerk or The Human League, are often used as reaction images to express feelings of confusion, alienation, or futuristic dread.
• Memes Comparing 80s Technology to Modern Technology: These memes highlight the stark contrast between the clunky technology of the 80s (e.g., cassette tapes, dial-up internet) and the sleek, sophisticated technology of today.

The Enduring Power of 80’s Music Memes

The popularity of 80’s music memes shows no signs of waning. They continue to circulate on social media, in online forums, and even in mainstream media. This enduring appeal can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the 80s remain a culturally significant decade, influencing fashion, music, and pop culture to this day. Secondly, memes provide a way for people to connect with others who share their love (or ironic appreciation) of 80s music. Finally, memes offer a lighthearted and accessible way to engage with music, even for those who may not be deeply familiar with the era. [See also: How Memes Shape Our Understanding of Music]

Creating Your Own 80’s Music Memes

Feeling inspired to create your own 80’s music memes? Here are a few tips:

• Choose a Recognizable Song or Artist: The more familiar the subject, the more likely your meme is to resonate with a wider audience.
• Find the Humor in the Absurd: The 80s were a decade of excess and experimentation, so don’t be afraid to embrace the cheesiness and over-the-top elements.
• Use High-Quality Images and Videos: A visually appealing meme is more likely to grab attention.
• Be Original and Creative: While it’s fine to draw inspiration from existing memes, try to put your own spin on things.
• Share Your Memes Widely: Post your creations on social media, in online forums, and anywhere else you think they might be appreciated.

The Future of 80’s Music Memes

As long as the internet exists, 80’s music memes will likely continue to thrive. New memes will emerge, old memes will be repurposed, and the cycle of nostalgic humor will continue. The 80s, with its distinct musical identity and cultural quirks, provides an endless source of inspiration for meme creators. So, crank up your favorite 80s tunes, fire up your meme generator, and get ready to laugh along with the internet’s collective appreciation of this iconic decade.

Conclusion

80’s music memes are more than just a fleeting internet trend. They are a testament to the enduring power of 80s music and culture, a way for people to connect through shared nostalgia and humor, and a reminder that even the most serious art can be appreciated (and parodied) in a lighthearted way. So, the next time you stumble across an 80s music meme, take a moment to appreciate the decade that gave us big hair, synth-pop, and, of course, some truly unforgettable music. And remember, don’t stop believin’ in the power of a good meme!