The year we Vogued, fell for Pretty Woman, and welcomed Mandela home
The year we Vogued, fell for Pretty Woman, and welcomed Mandela home
Ahmed Kajee
The year we Vogued, fell for Pretty Woman, and welcomed Mandela home
It was a moment in time where music, politics, and pop culture collided in ways we’ll never forget. From dancefloors and cinemas to global headlines, the world seemed to be changing right in front of us — and the soundtrack was unforgettable.
This week, we’re turning back the clock on the HOT Classic Countdown with Steve Bishop, taking place every Sunday from 12 to 3pm on HOT 102.7FM. Get ready for a three-hour trip through the songs that defined an era — from the beats that packed the dancefloor, to the power ballads that made us reach for the tissues. We’ll be celebrating the artists who ruled the charts, revisiting the movies that shaped the box office, and uncovering the headlines that had the whole world talking. Whether you lived it the first time around or discovered it later, these are the moments that will transport you straight back.
South Africa was on the edge of history as Nelson Mandela walked free after 27 years in prison. That same year, he toured the globe, addressed stadiums of cheering supporters, and even appeared at a Wembley Stadium concert alongside stars like Stevie Wonder and Peter Gabriel. Across the world, East and West Germany were officially reunited on 3 October, ending decades of division and symbolising a new era of hope.
The charts were bursting with iconic hits. Madonna taught the world to “Vogue,” Roxette gave us the heartfelt “It Must Have Been Love” from Pretty Woman, and Sinéad O’Connor brought raw emotion with “Nothing Compares 2 U.” Dancefloors were electric with Snap!’s “The Power,” Technotronic’s “Get Up,” and MC Hammer’s “U Can’t Touch This,” while ballads like Lisa Stansfield’s “All Around the World” and Michael Bolton’s “How Can We Be Lovers” filled the airwaves.
In cinemas, Home Alone had us laughing (and maybe checking our front doors twice), while Ghost made pottery romantic and Pretty Woman redefined the rom-com. Sports fans will remember the 1990 FIFA World Cup in Italy — not just for the football drama, but for Luciano Pavarotti’s stirring performance of Nessun Dorma, which became the tournament’s unofficial anthem.
Did You Know?
Mariah Carey’s debut single “Vision of Love” not only topped the charts but also influenced an entire generation of vocalists, including Beyoncé and Christina Aguilera.
More Posts for Show: Hot 1027 Classic Countdown with Steve Bishop
