Erin The Great

I was sitting on my couch when off in the distance I heard the melodic sound of Rick Astley. For those of you who have no idea what I’m talking about, Rick Astley was a singer from the 80’s that had the one hit of ‘Never going to give you up’.

Usually when I hear songs from the past, I’m sent into a waterfall of nostalgia. Granted I’m pretty young but I do remember wearing leggings the first time they were in style. I remember wearing my crimped hair tied in a ponytail to the side of my head with my neon pink oversized t-shirt that was tied by a knot over my spandex. As if this image weren’t enough to send someone into hysterics of laughter, I should also note that I was also sporting the LA Gear with the slouch socks. For the times, I was stylin’.

People like to dog on the 1980’s, but to be perfectly honest I think they were great. Some of the best music, movies, TV shows and looks came out of the 80’s. Gems such as Labyrinth, Dark Crystal, Back To The Future, Ferris Beuller’s Day off, Dirty Dancing (nobody puts baby in a corner) Indiana Jones, Gremlins, The Muppet Movie, The Karate Kid (wax on, wax off), Just about any ‘Brat Pack’ movie and of course the last two Star Wars movies… Hello Harrison Ford.

As far as music goes I have 5 words for you…Guns N’ mother frickin Roses! Thus going off on the 80’s ‘Butt Rock’ genre including AC/DC, Warrant, Twisted Sister, White Snake, Poison, and Bon Jovi etc. and of course the ballads of Cheap Trick and Air Supply…or ballads in general.

As far as fashion I believe it was the comfiest look. Who didn’t want to steel Jennifer Beal (Flash Dance), Pat Benatar (Singer), Madonna, Don Johnson (Miami Vice), M.C Hammer and Vanilla Ice’s look?

Last but not least, TV. Who doesn’t love the brilliant writing in Golden Girls, Macgyver, Alf, Perfect Strangers, Night Court, 21 Jump Street and of course Duck Tales.

I know it’s been almost 30 years since this blessed decade started but it’s unfortunate that just about everything that has come out in the last several years EXcluding video games has been a direct rip off of the 80’s. It’s sad but sort of a compliment to the raging genius that became that generation. Seriously, it was impossible making a list because once you get started on all the great things that came out between 1980 and 1989 you just have to go with the first things that come to mind  or else I’d be keeping you here forever.

Just remember your roots because as far as gaming… The Atari started it all!