In the early eighties, MTV marked the start of music videos and music television as we knew it. At first, the idea of music videos didn't make much sense to everybody. Not all music videos at the start of MTV were particularly interesting.
By the decade's end, however, several artists took control of the video format and set the standard for what to expect. These are the five music videos that defined the eighties.
5. a-ha - "Take On Me"
This video has been the source of countless internet memes in recent years. It was so iconic, even "Family Guy" did a scene paying tribute! The song was originally released with a different video, but it didn't get as much attention as this one.
4. Janet Jackson - "What Have You Done For Me Lately"
When Janet Jackson released her "Control" album in 1986, she broke through in a big way. The personal lyrics and impressive dance routines became her staple. This was the first video where Jackson made it clear she was here to stay. Watch for a cameo by a then-unknown Paula Abdul, who choreographed the video.
3. Cyndi Lauper - "Girls Just Want To Have Fun"
Cyndi Lauper arrived on the scene with her wacky personality and big voice. She delivered a handful of big hits in the eighties, but it all started with this one. Lauper would go on to devote a large portion of her life to giving back to the LGBTQ+ community with her True Colors Foundation. But nobody could forget her most famous song.
2. Madonna - "Like a Virgin"
The Queen of Pop made her debut with hits like "Lucky Star," "Borderline," and "Holiday." She received major rotation on MTV, but that was just the beginning. When "Like a Virgin" came out, Madonna set the tone for her career as a provocateur. She also cemented her status as an icon who paved the way for female artists that followed.
1. Michael Jackson - "Thriller"
Michael Jackson changed the way music videos looked forever. So much so that the King of Pop never called them "videos." Jackson always referred to them as "short films." One of his biggest short films came in 1983, when he released "Thriller." The groundbreaking epic made its world premiere on MTV and helped the album become the biggest selling album of all time. It was directed by legendary filmmaker John Landis.
