Healing the world with Rock & Roll
Ritchie Blackmore - Deep Purple
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About Us
80’s Rock Radio - Broadcasting from the Old Pueblo Tucson, Arizona
We started our social media page in July 2018, as a fan tribute to 80’s classic rock & heavy metal. During the global pandemic lockdown in May 2020, we launched our first broadcast. In the midst of confusion, fear and uncertainty, we were inspired to share the music that was a huge part of our youth in the 80’s.
From the decade that started the mosh pit, rock groups of the 80s, lead singers in spandex, MTV music television, metal bands with big hair and headbangers worldwide, WE ARE 80’s ROCK RADIO! We love playing the popular 80s rock songs from the best 80s rock bands. We hope you will enjoy the music with us.
Music licensing coverage in the United States, Canada
and United Kingdom.
U.S.A. via ASCAP, BMI, SoundExchange
Canada via OCAN and Re:Sound
U.K. via PPL and PRS
This Day in Rock - June 10, 2023
June 10, 1977 - Motörhead released their first self-titled single from their debut album
June 10, 1982 - Rainbow released their sixth studio album,
Straight Between the Eyes
June 10, 1983 - Pantera released their debut album, Metal Magic
June 10, 1983 - Tank released their third album, This Means War
June 10, 1986 - Candlemass released their debut album,
Epicus Doomicus Metallicus
June 10, 1988 - Raven released their album, Nothing Exceeds Like Excess
When Rock Music Ruled the Airwaves and the TV
By Cindy Blade
June 6, 2023
If you were born in the 60s, 70s, or 80s, chances are you grew up with 80s rock music blasting on your radio and your TV. Those were the days when rock ruled the airwaves and the MTV. There was nothing like listening to your favorite rock artists on your stereo or boombox and watching them in action on your television set. The 80s was the golden age of rock music, and the decade produced some of the most unforgettable hits, bands, videos, and performances of all time.
If you were a rock fan back then, you probably had your favorite station that you tuned in to every day. If you were lucky enough to be in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex, it could be Q102 (Texas Best Rock,) KZEW (The Zoo,) KEGL, Classic Rock 92.5, or Z-ROCK that played rock music exclusively. The DJs like Red Beard were the rock stars of the radio world, and they brought us the latest hits, the classic tunes, and the breaking news from the rock scene. We looked forward to their banter, their interviews, and their concert announcements, and we felt like we were part of a community of rock fans who shared our passion for the music. The 80s rock radio stations were not just a source of entertainment; they were a way of life.
MTV - the Music Television channel that revolutionized the music industry and the pop culture. When MTV launched in 1981, it was a game-changer. Suddenly we had a 24-hour channel that played music videos non-stop, and we could watch our favorite artists perform their songs in a visual and creative way.
Speaking of trends, the 80s rock music scene was full of them. From the power ballads to the hair metal, from the punk revival to the new wave, from the alternative to the mainstream, there was something for everyone. The fashion and the style were as diverse as the music itself. We had the ripped jeans, the leather jackets, the band t-shirts, the studded belts, and of course, the big hair. But don’t forget we also had the headbanging, the air guitar, the fist-pumping, and we perfected the crowd surfing. We had the attitude, the rebellion, and the freedom. If you lived through the 80s, you knew what it meant to be a rock fan!
But all good things must come to an end, and by the late 80s, the rock music scene was starting to change. The advent of grunge, rap, and techno signaled a shift in the musical landscape, and the MTV was evolving into a more reality-based channel. The 90s would bring a different kind of rock music and a different kind of culture. But for those of us who grew up in the 80s, the memories of the 80s rock radio stations and MTV will always stay with us. They were the sounds and the sights that defined our youth, our nostalgia, and our love for rock music.
Pantera: From Glam to Grit
By Rick Cruz
June 2, 2023
Pantera is one of the most iconic bands in the history of heavy metal music. But what many people don't know is that Pantera actually started out as a hair metal band in the 1980s. It wasn't until the early 1990s that they transitioned to thrash metal and became one of the most influential bands in the genre. So how did Pantera make this shift?
Pantera was formed in 1981 in Arlington, Texas, by brothers Dimebag Darrell and Vinnie Paul Abbott. They were initially a glam metal band heavily influenced by bands like Van Halen and Kiss. Their first three albums, "Metal Magic" (1983), "Projects in the Jungle" (1984), and "I Am the Night" (1985), showcased a sound that was more akin to Poison than Slayer.
However, in 1988, a new member joined the band that would change their sound forever. Phil Anselmo, a Louisiana native with a deep love for thrash metal, took over as lead vocalist. His aggressive style and dark lyrics brought a new intensity to the band, and Pantera's sound began to evolve.
Their fourth album, "Power Metal" (1988), showed signs of this evolution, with faster riffs and more aggressive vocals. But it wasn't until their fifth album, "Cowboys From Hell" (1990), that Pantera fully committed to the thrash metal sound. This album was a game-changer for the band, with songs like "Primal Concrete Sledge" and "Cowboys From Hell" showcasing their new musical direction.
Pantera's next two albums, "Vulgar Display of Power" (1992) and "Far Beyond Driven" (1994), solidified their place as one of the greatest thrash metal bands of all time. These albums featured some of their most iconic songs, including "Walk," "Mouth for War," and "Becoming." They also showcased a band firing on all cylinders, with Dimebag Darrell's blistering guitar work, Vinnie Paul's thunderous drums, and Phil Anselmo's ferocious vocals.
While Pantera's transition from hair metal to thrash metal may have seemed sudden, it was actually a natural progression for the band. They were always heavily influenced by metal music, and it was only a matter of time before they found their own sound within the genre. And while some fans may have initially been resistant to their new style, Pantera's reputation as a powerhouse live band helped them win over new fans and solidify their place in heavy metal history.
Pantera's journey from a hair metal band to a thrash metal band is a testament to their dedication to their craft and their willingness to take risks. It's also a reminder that sometimes the best way to find your own sound is to experiment and try new things. You can still hear all four of Pantera’s 80s albums on 80sRockRadio.net
Pantera
Twisted Sister: The 80s Rock Band that Shook the World
By Jesse Savage
June 1, 2023
The 80s were a glorious era for rock music, and one band that ruled the scene with their loud and outrageous antics was Twisted Sister. This American heavy metal band was formed in 1972 and had an incredible run. With their rebellious attitude, signature outfits, and catchy anthems, they quickly became a fan favorite and one of the most popular bands of their time.
The early years of Twisted Sister were anything but glamorous. The band started as a cover band playing rock classics all around New York's clubs and bars. They were known for their wild stage performances and memorable looks, and soon enough, they began performing their original music. In 1982, their debut album, Under the Blade, was released, which showcased their heavy sound and quickly became a fan favorite.
The band's popularity skyrocketed with the release of their album Stay Hungry, in 1984. The album features their smash hit song "We're Not Gonna Take It." The song was a massive success and became one of their most recognizable anthems, with its music video a favorite on MTV. The song sparked nationwide controversy, being banned by Tipper Gore and the PMRC (Parents Music Resource Center). The band continued to release highly successful albums, including Come Out and Play and Love Is for Suckers, cementing their place in the rock scene.
As much as the band was celebrated for their music, Twisted Sister was equally infamous for their wild stage shows and rebellious attitude. Their unique dressing style, which consisted of leather, chains, and makeup, set them apart from other bands at the time. The group was known for their high energy and unforgettable performances that always left fans wanting more.
Despite their immense success, the band's fame eventually dwindled, and they announced their breakup in 1988. Members of the group pursued solo careers, but their legacy lived on through their music, videos, and merchandise. In 2002, the band reunited for a benefit concert and continued to perform together occasionally.
The story of Twisted Sister is a tour de force of 80s rock music. Their music and larger-than-life performances brought joy to millions of fans around the world, cementing their place in music history. Today, their enduring legacy resonates among new generations of rock fans, and their music continues to inspire and entertain. As we look back at the rise and fall of this band, we can't help but feel grateful for all the unforgettable moments they gave us. Rock on, Twisted Sister!
Twisted Sister
Get Ready to Rock with Classic German Heavy Metal!
By Cindy Blade
May 31, 2023
If you're a fan of heavy metal music from the 80s, then you know how groundbreaking this era was for the genre. One particularly influential sub-genre at this time was classic German Heavy Metal. German bands like Scorpions, Accept, Helloween, Warlock, Kreator, and Running Wild created a unique sound that blended the power and speed of traditional heavy metal.
Classic German Heavy Metal emerged in the late 70s and early 80s as musicians in Germany began experimenting with a faster, heavier style of music influenced by British Heavy Metal bands like Judas Priest and Iron Maiden. As the genre evolved, German bands developed a signature sound that placed a heavy emphasis on powerful, soaring vocals, complex guitar riffs, and driving rhythms. This style quickly caught on with metal fans around the world and paved the way for other sub-genres like power metal.
One of the most distinctive aspects of classic German Heavy Metal is the emphasis on melody and harmony. Bands like Helloween and Gamma Ray incorporated elements of classical music into their compositions, creating grandiose and bombastic soundscapes that were both intricate and fun to headbang to. The use of harmonized guitar leads and soaring vocal harmonies became a hallmark of the sub-genre, and helped to set it apart from other styles of heavy metal.
Another key factor that sets classic German Heavy Metal apart from other sub-genres is its sense of humor. Bands like Running Wild and Tankard infused their music with a healthy dose of self-awareness and irony, poking fun at the trappings of heavy metal culture while still delivering blistering, high-energy performances. This tongue-in-cheek approach helped to make classic German Heavy Metal accessible to a wider audience, and ensured that the genre remained relevant and popular well into the 90s and beyond.
Many of the genre's greatest icons are still active in the music scene today, touring and recording new material that stays true to their original vision while still remaining fresh and relevant. Whether you're an older metalhead looking to relive the glory days of the 80s or a younger fan curious to explore the roots of the genre, classic German Heavy Metal is definitely worth checking out.world.
Deutschland Heavy Metal
80s Rock Invented the Mosh
By Cindy Blade
May 26, 2023
If you're a fan of heavy metal or hard rock, you've likely attended a concert where you've seen people moshing. The mosh pit has become synonymous with heavy metal music. And while we might think of the mosh pit as a modern invention, it's actually been around since the 80s. But where did it all start?
Before we dive in, let's break down what a mosh pit is. A mosh pit is an area, usually in front of the stage, and is typically a high-energy, chaotic environment where people jump, shove, and slam into each other. The term "mosh pit" was first used in the early 80s, specifically in metal and punk circles, and it's since become a staple of rock concerts.
Where did the mosh pit come from?
While it's hard to pinpoint the exact moment the mosh pit was invented, we can trace its roots back to the punk rock movement. At punk concerts, fans would often dance aggressively, colliding into each other in what was known as "pogoing." As punk rock evolved into hardcore in the early 80s, this dance style became more aggressive and eventually evolved into the mosh pit we know today. Heavy metal bands like Slayer and Metallica also played a significant role in popularizing the mosh pit, incorporating it into their live shows.
Why is the mosh pit important?
For many fans, the mosh pit is an essential part of the concert experience. It's a way to release pent-up energy and connect with fellow fans through music. Moshing can be a physical and emotional release, allowing fans to forget about their troubles and immerse themselves in the moment. It's also a way to show appreciation for the music; by participating in the mosh pit, fans are actively engaging with the music and showing support for the band.
How has the mosh pit evolved over time?
Today's mosh pits can be more intense and chaotic than those of the past, with fans engaging in more extreme behaviors like stage diving and crowd surfing. Some argue that this has led to safety concerns, and there have been instances where fans have been seriously injured or killed while participating in mosh pits. As a result, many venues have implemented safety measures like crowd control barriers to keep fans safe.
The mosh pit is a vital part of rock culture, one that's been around for over 40 years. While the mosh pit has evolved over time, it remains an essential part of the concert experience for many fans. And while there are valid concerns about safety, the mosh pit continues to be a powerful symbol of music's ability to bring people together in a dynamic way. So next time you're at a rock concert and the mosh pit opens up, don't be afraid to jump in and let loose. After all, you might just be participating in a tradition that's been around since the 80s!
The Evolution of Music Listening
By Rick Cruz
May 25, 2023
Do you remember the days when you had to rewind your favorite songs on a mixtape or carefully place the needle on a vinyl record to listen to your favorite music? Those were the days, and they have evolved significantly over the years. Now, with the advent of music streaming, you can listen to your favorite songs, and pretty much any song ever recorded, anytime. You can make the equivalent of an online mixtape and share it instantly with anyone in the world! Let's take a closer look at the evolution of music listening from tapes and records to music streaming.
Remember how cool it was to make mixtapes for your friends or your babe? Tapes were the go-to medium for music listening back in the day. In the 1970s and 80s, cassette tapes gained popularity because they were compact and portable. They were the perfect medium for home recordings and music sharing, becoming the format of choice for most people. However, tapes had their limits. They could easily wear out, get “eaten” by the tape player, and their sound quality deteriorated over time.
Despite the arrival of tapes, records were the dominant medium for music listening in the 1960s, 70s, and 80s. They offered a unique listening experience, with a warmer sound quality that people still crave for today. The artwork and design on album covers was also something to appreciate. Vinyl was the go-to for music enthusiasts, and its resurgence in the last decade has been remarkable with many music lovers opting to listen to vinyl records for the authentic sound experience.
With the rise of technology, music listening has gotten even more convenient with music streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, and Pandora. Music streaming services have seen explosive growth in recent years, with millions of songs available at your fingertips. They have revolutionized the music industry by making it easier for people to access music, anytime and anywhere with a smartphone or any internet-connected device. Music streaming services provide you with personalized playlists, curated by mood, genre and even activity. Unfortunately, this puts not only the artists at a financial disadvantage, but it also affects the livelihood of the producers, engineers, songwriters, and everyone else associated with making the art that goes into every album that has ever been released.
So, which one is better? Well, it depends on who you ask. For the listener, tapes, and vinyl have the experience and nostalgia factor. On the other hand, music streaming offers convenience, and accessibility. Music streaming services have surpassed CD sales and on the verge of making vinyl sales obsolete, just like everything else in the world going automated, on-demand, and AI.
We all have our preferences, but one thing remains clear, music is essential, and it connects us all. Whether you prefer to listen to music from tapes, vinyl records, or music streaming services, the magic of music will continue to evolve, and we can't wait to see what's next. Who knows, maybe one day soon, you’ll be able to transport through Virtual Reality back to past concerts from your favorite artist, and you can experience the full effect of Led Zeppelin from 1973!
80S THRASH METAL: THE SOUND OF REBELLION
by Jesse Savage
May 15, 2023
The 80s was a decade of transformation, not just in terms of fashion and pop culture, but also in the world of music. Among the genres that emerged during this period, none was more rebellious and aggressive than Thrash Metal.
Thrash Metal was a subgenre of heavy metal that emerged in the early 80s as a response to the commercialization of metal by record labels. It was a raw and powerful sound that combined the aggression of punk rock with the technicality and virtuosity of Classic Metal. And at the forefront of this movement were the “Big Four” bands, Metallica, Slayer, Anthrax, and Megadeth.
The origins of Thrash Metal can be traced back to the early 80s when bands like Venom and Raven began experimenting with a faster and more aggressive sound. One of the defining characteristics of thrash metal was its breakneck speed. Bands like Metal Church, Kreator, Sepultura, Overkill, Death, Exodus, and Testament played at blistering tempos that had never been heard before in the world of metal. They also employed intricate riffs, complex time signatures, and rapid-fire drumming to create a sound that was both technically impressive and emotionally intense.
Another hallmark of Thrash Metal was its raw and unpolished production. Unlike the slick and polished sound of commercial metal bands, thrash metal bands recorded their music on a shoestring budget, often in garages or basements. The result was a sound that was raw,
raucous, and authentic.
80s Thrash Metal was one of the most influential and rebellious genres of music in history. It was a sound that represented the anger, frustration, and disillusionment of a generation, and it left a lasting mark on the world of music. Though the golden era of thrash metal may have come and gone, its legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of its fans, and in the music of countless bands that continue to carry the torch of rebellion and authenticity.
80s Thrash Meatl
The 80s Movie Soundtracks That Rocked a Generation
by Rick Cruz
May 10, 2023
The 80s was a decade of rockin’ mullets, mosh pits, and unforgettable music. The Rock music of the 80s has stood the test of time. But one aspect of 80s Rock that doesn't get enough attention is the movie soundtracks.
In this blog post, we're taking a trip down memory lane as we revisit some of the 80s movie soundtracks that rocked a generation. From the heavy metal madness of "Heavy Metal" to the New Wave soundtrack of "Less Than Zero," let's dive in.
One of the most iconic 80s movie soundtracks is undoubtedly "The Lost Boys" from 1987. This movie featured some of the biggest names in rock music at the time, including INXS, Lou Gramm of Foreigner, and Roger Daltrey of The Who. The soundtrack perfectly captured the essence of the movie's vampire theme, with haunting melodies and dark lyrics. The standout track on the album is arguably "Cry Little Sister" by Gerard McMann, which to this day remains a cult classic and you can still hear that track on 80sRockRadio.net.
Another classic 80s soundtrack is "Fast Times at Ridgemont High" from 1982. This movie was a coming-of-age tale set in a California high school, and the soundtrack perfectly captured the feeling of youth and rebellion. The album featured hits from the likes of Jackson Browne, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, and The Go-Go's. But the standout track on the album is the title song, "Fast Times (The Best Years of Our Lives)" by Billy Squier, which has become a staple of our online 80s Rock radio station.
If you're looking for an 80s soundtrack that perfectly captures the essence of the decade, look no further than "Less Than Zero" from 1987. This movie was a dark exploration of the excesses of the 80s, and the soundtrack reflected this perfectly. The album features some of the biggest names in 80s Rock and Thrash Metal music, including Aerosmith, Slayer, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. The standout track on the album is "Hazy Shade of Winter" by The Bangles, a haunting and beautifully crafted tune that perfectly captures the movie's themes of disillusionment and despair.
For fans of heavy metal, one of the best 80s soundtracks is from the 1981 animated science fiction film, "Heavy Metal.” This movie featured some of the biggest names in 80s rock music, including Black Sabbath, Sammy Hagar, and Blue Öyster Cult. The album is an all-out assault on the senses, with thunderous guitars and pounding drums. The two standout tracks on the album is arguably "Heavy Metal (Take a Ride)" by Don Felder, and “Heavy Metal (Soundtrack Version)” by Sammy Hagar, hard-hitting tracks that perfectly capture the movie's sci-fi fantasy theme.
The 80s were a decade of unforgettable music, and the movie soundtracks were no exception. From Heavy Metal madness to New Wave cool, the soundtracks of the 80s perfectly captured the spirit of the decade. So next time you're looking for some 80s nostalgia from a John Hughes or Dennis Hopper film, why not dig out one of these classic soundtracks and take a trip down memory lane? Let the music take you back to a time of big hair, mosh pits, and even bigger dreams.
Tune into 80sRockRadio.net for all your favorite hard rock and heavy metal soundtracks.
80s Movie Soundtracks
10 of the most underrated 80s hair metal songs
by Rick Cruz
May 4, 2023
Whether you’re a new fan of 80’s rock or you were a rocker in the 80s, we hope you discover some awesome music that has been around this whole time. We take a deep look into 10 totally awesome underrated 80’s Hair Metal songs, some, you may not have heard! We feature the songs with that Heavy Metal guitar sound mixed with some 80’s synth, along with some shredding vocals, and lots and lots of hair! We bring you the best of underrated 80’s Hair Metal!
Listen to our playlist of curated songs from the era of 80s hair metal. From time to time, we will add to this playlist, so follow us on Spotify. Got one you want to suggest? Leave us a comment or email us at info@80srockradio.net
Spotify Playlist: Underground 80’s Hair Metal
1. “Long Way to Love” by Britny Fox. This song is the perfect example of Hair Metal making you feel good. One of the most underrated 80’s Hair Bands, Britny Fox is from Philadelphia, PA
2. “Inside Out” by XYZ. This band is originally from Lyons, France and revamped in L.A. in the late 80’s, becoming the unofficial house band at the Whisky a Go-Go on the Sunset Strip in Hollywood. This band is amazing!!
3. “Never Enough” by L.A. Guns. This band comes straight from the clubs and Sunset Strip 80’s glory days in Hollywood, California.
4. “Cold Blood” by Kix. Originally formed in 1977, from Hagerstown, Maryland, Kix is one of our favorite Hard Rock/Hair Metal bands from the 80’s.
5. “Danger of Love” by LOUDNESS. This hard rockin’ band comes from the “Land of the Rising Sun,” Japan. Established in 1981, LOUDNESS has gained worldwide success but never got the heavy rotation on radio station playlists they deserved. But we play the Hell out of this band!
6. “I’m Insane” by Ratt. We’re not saying Ratt didn’t get the love and notoriety they deserved from MTV and 80s rock radio stations, but how did this track off their debut album not become a single? This is one of our favorite 80s rock songs.
7. “Love Has Taken Its Toll” by Saraya. Now most of you would ask, Who? But this awesome band wails!! The band is from New Jersey with frontwoman Sandi Saraya. After hearing this track, you’ll know their name!
8. “New Thing” by Enuff Z’Nuff. Enuff Z’Nuff is another highly underrated hair band from the 80’s. In our opinion, this band from Chicagoland is the epitome of kick ass 80’s Hair Metal!
9. “Bang Go the Bells” by Babylon A.D. This totally awesome Hair Metal band comes from the Bay Area. Check them out, you won’t be sorry.
10. “Radar Love” Golden Earring cover by White Lion. Another deep cut from New York City Hair Metal Band White Lion. You’ll love this one as much as we do!
The New Wave of british heavy metal
by Jesse Savage
April 29, 2023
From 1977 onward, a thrilling new sound began to emerge in the United Kingdom: Heavy Metal. This powerful and captivating genre quickly gained traction, creating a feverish buzz around the British isles that lasted until 1982 when the scene finally fizzled out. Despite its relatively short lifespan, this period of time still occupies an important place in music history; one where classic rock was re-imagined with ferocity and energy unlike anything heard before or since!
The new wave of British heavy metal, or NWOBHM, was characterized by a mix of punk energy with traditional hard rock and heavy metal musical conventions. The genre was heavily influenced by bands such as Black Sabbath, Deep Purple, AC/DC, Judas Priest, and Led Zeppelin. NWOBHM bands were known for their loud, aggressive sound and high-energy live performances. Some of the most iconic 80s rock bands to emerge from this era include Motörhead, Iron Maiden, Def Leppard, Saxon, Diamond Head, and Girlschool. These bands helped revolutionize the heavy metal genre.
The New Wave of British Heavy Metal has made a lasting impact on rock and heavy metal bands alike. NWOBHM's influence and legacy still lives on in modern-day bands who draw upon the style and attitude of the scene. The aggressive riffs, deep vocals and infectious melodies that make up NWOBHMare evidence that those pioneers set a blueprint for what true heavy metal should be. While times have changed and trends come and go, one thing is certain; the spirit of NWOBHM will live forever in our hearts.
- Jesse Savage
Check out these bands at 80sRockRadio.net
NWOBHM