These throwback hits and Hollywood favourites might hit you right in the memories
These throwback hits and Hollywood favourites might hit you right in the memories
These throwback hits and Hollywood favourites might hit you right in the memories
Ahmed Kajee
Few years capture the pure spirit of the ’80s quite like 1985 — a year of bold sounds, unforgettable style, and some of the most iconic songs ever recorded. From silky ballads to stadium anthems and ambitious music videos, 1985 delivered a soundtrack that helped define a generation.
It’s the featured year on this week’s HOT Classic Countdown with Steve Bishop, taking place every Sunday from 12 to 3pm on HOT 102.7FM.
It was a year of big leaps and big personalities. Radios around the world were blasting fresh sounds, from synthesizers that shimmered to guitars that sliced through the charts. Tracks like A-ha’s “Take On Me” weren’t just hits — they were innovations in music video storytelling, using groundbreaking animation that made the song impossible to forget. Tears for Fears’ “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” captured the global mood of shifting politics and rising ambition, all wrapped in a melody that still fills dance floors today.
Charity and collaboration also ruled the airwaves. The power-packed supergroup behind “We Are the World” turned a song into a worldwide movement, raising millions and uniting the biggest stars of the decade in one historic session. Meanwhile, songs like “Drive” by The Cars and “Money for Nothing” by Dire Straits brought a sophisticated, moody edge to the charts — proving that 1985 wasn’t just about flash; it had emotional resonance too.
And then there were the showstoppers. Grace Jones delivered high art and high attitude with Slave to the Rhythm, shifting pop culture in ways still felt today. Madonna continued redefining pop stardom, Prince gave the world the technicolour wonder of Raspberry Beret, and George Michael’s smooth, aching vocals reminded everyone that heartbreak could be gorgeous.
Beyond the music, Hollywood and television were having their own blockbuster year.
In 1985, the world fell in love with The Golden Girls, a sitcom that broke every rule in the book — starring four older women who were sharp, modern, hilarious, and completely iconic. It became one of the most influential TV shows of all time and proved that great storytelling never goes out of style.
On the big screen, Rocky IV punched its way into cinemas, delivering one of the most memorable sports films ever made. Rocky Balboa took on the towering Ivan Drago in a Cold War-era showdown that became a cultural moment far bigger than boxing. The film went on to become the highest-grossing sports movie for decades, cementing 1985 as a monumental year in entertainment.
Did You Know?
The Commodores’ “Nightshift” was written as a heartfelt tribute to Marvin Gaye and Jackie Wilson, both of whom had passed away the year before. The song went on to win the group their first-ever Grammy Award.
From irresistible pop hooks to groundbreaking TV and box-office giants, 1985 delivered a year packed with moments that shaped culture for decades to come. Relive the magic with the Classic Countdown — where the hits of ’85 sound just as good today as they did back then.
More Posts for Show: Hot 1027 Classic Countdown with Steve Bishop
